Vanilla Noodle Kugel

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm dish of Vanilla Noodle Kugel. I still remember the first time I tasted it at my grandmother’s house during a family gathering. The sweet aroma wafted through the air, pulling me into the kitchen like a magnet. She had that special touch, transforming simple ingredients into a dish that felt like a warm hug on a chilly evening. As I took my first bite, the creamy texture of the noodles mixed with the delicate sweetness filled my senses with joy. It’s a dish that transcends generations, evoking memories of laughter, love, and the magic of home-cooked meals. Now, I want to share this cherished recipe with you, so you can create your own delicious moments around the dinner table.

Key Ingredients for Vanilla Noodle Kugel

When it comes to creating a memorable dish, the ingredients are key. Each component of Vanilla Noodle Kugel works harmoniously together, resulting in a delightful experience for your taste buds. From the creamy textures to the sweet notes, every ingredient plays an essential role in crafting this traditional dish.

• 1 cup prepared vanilla pudding (homemade or from a mix) – adds a creamy sweetness that binds everything together.
• 1 pound egg noodles – the heart of the dish; they soak up all the flavors beautifully.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened – gives a rich, velvety texture.
• 3/4 cup sugar – enhances the sweetness of the dish.
• 4 large eggs – crucial for binding and providing structure.
• 1 1/2 cups milk (any percentage is fine, except nonfat) – adds creaminess and richness.
• 3/4 cup lowfat sour cream – contributes a slight tang and additional creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla – infuses the kugel with a warm, aromatic flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness.
• 8 ounces vanilla wafer cookies (makes about 2 cups of crumbs) – provides a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft kugel.
• 2 tablespoons sugar – for sweetening the topping.
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon – adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – enriches the crumb topping.

Instructions for Vanilla Noodle Kugel

Making Vanilla Noodle Kugel is a delightful process that brings joy to the kitchen. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll end up with a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the cooking journey!

1. Start by taking the cream cheese out of the refrigerator so it can soften. This will make it easier to mix later. Prepare the vanilla pudding according to package directions, then chill until it reaches a soft set consistency. You want it thick but not fully firm at this point.
2. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring a proper baking temperature for that lovely golden crust. Meanwhile, boil the egg noodles according to package directions until they achieve an al dente texture—cooked but not soft or mushy. Once done, drain and rinse with cold water until the noodles cool. Don’t forget to drain again to remove excess water!
3. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened cream cheese and sugar. Ensure you mix until it’s light and fluffy. Next, add the eggs one at a time, blending them in until everything is well incorporated.
4. Now, it’s time to add the pudding, milk, lowfat sour cream, vanilla, and salt. Mix on medium-high speed until all ingredients are well blended and uniform in consistency.
5. Pour the cooked noodles into the creamy mixture, stirring to combine everything thoroughly. Make sure all the noodles are evenly coated with the liquid, breaking up any clumps that may have formed.
6. Next, pour this delicious noodle mixture into a greased casserole or baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly spread out for uniform baking.
7. For the topping, crush the vanilla wafer cookies until they reach a crumbly texture. You can do this using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and gently pounding them with a mallet. Aim for a fine crumb, but not to the point of powder; some texture is desirable. In a small mixing bowl, combine the cookie crumbs with sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Mix with a fork until all crumbs are evenly moistened.
8. Evenly sprinkle the crumbly topping over the kugel mixture in the baking dish. This will create a beautiful, crunchy layer once baked.
9. Bake the kugel uncovered on the middle rack of the oven for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes. Be sure to turn the dish once during baking to ensure even cooking. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is golden brown all over. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
10. The best part is that you can enjoy this kugel warm or cold. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator to avoid spoilage. Although the topping may not be as crunchy the second day, the flavors will still be delightful. Enjoy every bite!

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to infuse some creativity into your Vanilla Noodle Kugel, here are some tips for making it your own. Feel free to try different ingredients, toppings, and serving methods!

• Storage: To store leftovers effectively, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh for up to three days.
• Freezing: If you want to extend the shelf life, you can freeze the kugel. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will last in the freezer for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve this dish alongside a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the kugel. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or fish too!
• Variations: Try adding chopped fruits such as apples or raisins for a fruity twist. Nuts can also be added for a crunchy texture.
• Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like crushed graham crackers or a drizzle of honey for an extra layer of sweetness.

Serve This Vanilla Noodle Kugel With

• A Fresh Salad: A green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the creamy kugel, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Seasonal Fruits: Serve with sliced seasonal fruits like strawberries or peaches to balance the dish’s richness.
• For Brunch: This kugel can be served as a sweet addition to your brunch spread alongside pancakes and scrambled eggs.
• Family Gatherings: Perfect for holiday gatherings, family reunions, or potlucks where everyone can enjoy its comforting flavors.
• Storage Tips: Make sure to store any leftover kugel in an airtight container in your fridge to maintain its creaminess for up to three days.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Vanilla Noodle Kugel is not just a dish; it’s a treasure trove of memories, flavor, and comfort. It brings families together and creates lasting traditions that are cherished through generations. I encourage you to try making this delightful recipe at home. You’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can create something so beautiful and delicious. Enjoy every moment of it, and share it with those you love!

Vanilla Noodle Kugel

The ultimate comfort food, Vanilla Noodle Kugel combines creamy textures with sweet flavors. This easy weeknight dinner will have your family singing its praises. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Blender
• Oven
• Food Processor

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup vanilla pudding prepared, homemade or from a mix
• 1 pound egg noodles
• 8 ounces cream cheese softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups milk any percentage is fine, except nonfat
• 3/4 cup lowfat sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces vanilla wafer cookies (makes about 2 cups of crumbs)
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted

Instructions

 

• Take cream cheese out of the refrigerator to let it soften. Prepare pudding according to package directions and chill until soft set (thickened, but it doesn't need to be completely firm).
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
• Boil the egg noodles according to package directions until they reach an al dente texture (cooked, but not too soft or limp). Drain and rinse with cold water until noodles are cool. Drain again.
• Use an electric mixer to cream together the cream cheese and sugar. Add the eggs and mix again until blended.
• Add pudding, milk, sour cream, vanilla and salt. Mix on medium high until all ingredients are well blended.
• Pour noodles into the liquid mixture. Stir to combine noodles and liquid, making sure all noodles are covered in liquid and no noodle clumps have formed.
• Pour noodle mixture into a greased casserole or baking dish.
• Crush vanilla wafer cookies to a crumbly texture using a food processor, or by placing the cookies into a sealed plastic bag and pounding them with a mallet. You want them crushed fine, but not to a powder-- a little texture is good. Place crumbs into a small mixing bowl. Add sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter to the crumbs. Mix with a fork for a couple of minutes until all of the crumbs are evenly moistened by the butter.
• Evenly sprinkle the crumbly topping across the top of the kugel.
• Bake kugel uncovered on the middle rack of the oven for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, turning the dish once during baking to make sure it bakes evenly. Kugel is done when the topping lightly browns all the way across. Remove from the oven.
• You can serve this kugel warm or cold. Store it in the refrigerator to avoid spoilage. The topping won't be as crunchy the second day, but it will still taste delicious. Enjoy!

Notes

• Tip 1: Allow the kugel to cool slightly before serving to enhance its flavors and texture.
• Tip 2: This dish can be served warm, cold, or at room temperature, making it versatile for any gathering.
• Tip 3: Aim for a custard-like consistency in the center; it should not be too gooey or runny.
• Tip 4: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Keyword comfort food, Kugel recipe, traditional dessert, Vanilla Noodle Kugel

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Meet Eva Sterling

I have a restless palate and I love that our blog covers such a wide range of food. I am always excited to cook something we haven’t tried before. I jump into every cooking session with enthusiasm, ready to chop, sauté, bake, or grill. I love the collaborative energy of our kitchen we all learn from each other, and that makes every dish we publish better.