Discover the heartwarming flavors of a classic Jewish dish that will transport you straight to Grandma's kitchen! This Noodle Kugel with Candied Pecans is a delightful blend of creamy, sweet, and crunchy elements that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Perfect as a comforting side dish or a sweet addition to your brunch table, this recipe is not just food—it's a celebration of tradition and flavor. Ready to impress your family and friends? Dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that promises to be a showstopper at any gathering!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Jewish
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup candied pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 6-8 minutes. Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, cottage cheese, sour cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and well combined. The mixture should have a creamy, consistent texture.
- Add the cooked noodles to the cheese mixture, gently folding them in to ensure every noodle is evenly coated. Be careful not to break the noodles while mixing.
- Transfer the noodle mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The surface should be smooth and level.
- Sprinkle the candied pecans evenly over the top of the kugel, creating a delightful crunchy topping.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The kugel should have a slight wobble but not be liquid.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the kugel to set and makes it easier to slice.
- Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature. Can be enjoyed as a side dish or a sweet brunch item.
Tips
- Perfect Noodle Texture: To achieve the ideal texture, be sure to cook the egg noodles until they are al dente. This prevents them from becoming mushy during baking.
- Mixing Technique: When folding the noodles into the cheese mixture, use a gentle hand to avoid breaking the noodles. A light touch will keep your kugel fluffy and light.
- Greasing the Dish: Generously greasing your baking dish is key to ensuring your kugel comes out easily. Consider using a mix of butter and non-stick spray for extra insurance against sticking.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative with the topping! You can substitute candied pecans with other nuts or even add a sprinkle of chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
- Serving Suggestions: This kugel can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion. Pair it with a fresh fruit salad or a dollop of yogurt for a delightful brunch spread.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the kugel a day in advance. Just bake it, let it cool, and then refrigerate. Reheat before serving for a warm, comforting dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 190mg
