Sweet Lokshen Kugel
The ultimate comfort food, Sweet Lokshen Kugel is a creamy, sweet noodle dish that’s perfect for family gatherings. With its rich texture and delightful blend of flavors, it’s an easy weeknight dinner that will surely satisfy your cravings. Make it tonight for a warm, inviting dish everyone will love!
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Chef's Knife
- Large Pot
- Wooden Spoon
- Blender
- Oven
- Food Processor
Ingredients
- 1 cup raisins optional
- 12 ounces wide egg noodles
- 6 large eggs
- 1 pound sour cream 2 cups
- 8 ounces cottage cheese 1 cup
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened, OR farmer's cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup Cinnamon and sugar for dusting
- 1 can Nonstick cooking oil spray
Instructions
- Start by placing a rack in the middle of your oven and preheating it to 350 degrees F. This ensures a perfectly baked kugel right from the beginning.
- While the oven heats, take a bowl and cover the raisins with hot water. Let them soak to plump while you prepare the other ingredients. This will enhance their sweetness and texture.
- Next, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles to the pot, then bring it back to a boil. Cook until tender, which should take about 5 minutes. We want them soft but not overly mushy. Drain the noodles and return them to the pot.
- In a food processor or blender, add the eggs, sour cream, cottage cheese, cream cheese, sugar, melted butter, and salt. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic begins!
- Pour the creamy egg mixture over the cooked noodles in the pot. Stir well until everything is combined, ensuring that the noodles are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Once drained, stir the swollen raisins into the noodle mixture, adding bursts of sweetness throughout the kugel.
- Next, spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking oil. Carefully pour the noodle mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
- Now, it's time to top the kugel. Generously sprinkle with sugar and lightly dust with cinnamon. You can also get creative and add your favorite kugel topping like streusel or crushed graham crackers.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes, turning it halfway through cooking. You’re looking for the center to be set and the tips of the noodles to turn that beautiful golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the kugel from the oven and let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your kugel warm or cold; it’s delicious either way!
Notes
- Use a timer: Keep an eye on your kugel as it bakes. Overcooking can lead to a dry texture, while undercooking won't set the center.
- Topping options: Don't hesitate to experiment with toppings. Crushed cornflakes or nuts can add a delightful crunch to your kugel.
- Resting time: Allow the kugel to rest before serving. This makes slicing easier and enhances the flavors as they meld.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.