Pineapple Kugel
A rich and creamy pineapple kugel combines sweet pineapple, raisins, and warm spices with noodles for a comforting dessert perfect for family gatherings or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, stir together cooked noodles, whipping cream, egg yolks, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Stir in raisins, drained crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract.
- In a medium bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the noodle mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 7 x 11-inch glass baking dish.
- Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the top is light brown.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve, then reheat before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter kugel, consider using low-fat cream instead of whipping cream. If you're looking for a sweeter flavor, you can substitute the sugar with honey or maple syrup. Adding a pinch of cardamom can enhance the spice profile. Ensure your egg noodles are cooked al dente to maintain texture after baking. This dish is great for brunch and pairs beautifully with American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Pineapple kugel is delicious served warm or at room temperature. Consider topping it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. It pairs nicely with fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal. This dish is also a great addition to a potluck or family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pineapple kugel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Kugel contains roughly 229 calories, with 2g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 463mg per serving (20% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make pineapple kugel ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the kugel a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, then cover and refrigerate before baking. When ready to serve, bake it as directed. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Can I use other types of fruit in this kugel?
Absolutely! While pineapple is traditional, you can substitute with other fruits like peaches or cherries for a different flavor. Just ensure to adjust the sugar based on the fruit's sweetness.
Is pineapple kugel gluten-free?
Traditional kugel made with egg noodles is not gluten-free. However, you can use gluten-free noodles or even a base of cooked quinoa as a substitute to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).