Vanilla Noodle Kugel Delight

This moist, creamy Vanilla Noodle Kugel transforms basic egg noodles into a comforting dessert that balances sweet vanilla flavors with a satisfying crunchy cookie topping. Its versatility as both a side dish and dessert makes it a staple at holiday gatherings and potlucks in my home.

I first made this kugel for a neighborhood potluck where nobody knew what kugel was. By the end of the night, everyone was asking for the recipe and it's now requested at every gathering I attend.

Ingredients

• Egg noodles: form the hearty base of this dish and provide the perfect texture
• Vanilla pudding: creates a silky sweetness throughout the kugel
• Cream cheese: adds richness and helps create that signature creamy texture
• Vanilla wafer cookies: create an irresistible crunchy topping that complements the soft noodles perfectly
• Cinnamon: in the topping provides a warm spice note that enhances the vanilla flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the base:

Allow cream cheese to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the vanilla pudding according to package directions and chill until it reaches a soft set consistency, about 15 minutes. This provides the perfect creamy base.

Cook the noodles:

Boil egg noodles until they reach al dente texture, about 5 to 7 minutes depending on the brand. Be careful not to overcook as they will continue to soften while baking. Rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process and drain thoroughly.

Create the custard:

Using an electric mixer, cream together softened cream cheese and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture should be smooth and well incorporated. Add prepared vanilla pudding, milk, sour cream, vanilla extract and salt, then beat on medium high speed until completely blended into a silky custard.

Combine noodles and custard:

Pour the drained noodles into the custard mixture and gently stir to ensure every noodle is evenly coated. Take your time here to break up any clumps of noodles that may have formed, ensuring an even texture throughout the finished kugel.

Prepare the topping:

Crush vanilla wafer cookies into small crumbs with some texture remaining. Mix the crumbs with sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until everything is evenly moistened. The mixture should resemble wet sand that holds together slightly when pressed.

Assemble and bake:

Transfer the noodle mixture to a greased 9x13 baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the cookie topping across the entire surface. Bake at 350°F for 60 to 75 minutes, rotating the dish halfway through for even browning. The kugel is done when the topping is golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.

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My favorite part of this kugel is definitely the vanilla wafer topping. When I was growing up, my grandmother would always let me be in charge of crushing the cookies and sprinkling the topping. She taught me that a good kugel needs that perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures.

What Is Kugel?

Kugel is a traditional Jewish baked pudding or casserole, typically made with egg noodles or potatoes. This sweet variation evolved among Ashkenazi Jewish communities in Eastern Europe as a special Sabbath dish. While savory kugels are common, sweet noodle kugels like this one became popular for holiday celebrations and special occasions. The word "kugel" actually comes from German and means "sphere" or "ball," referring to the original dome shape these puddings had when baked in round pots.

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Make Ahead Tips

This kugel is ideal for preparing 1-2 days before you need it. Simply bake as directed, cool completely, then cover tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve, you have two options. For a cold kugel, simply slice and serve straight from the refrigerator. For a warm kugel, remove from refrigerator about 30 minutes before reheating, then warm in a 325°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. The topping will soften slightly after refrigeration but will still provide a wonderful texture contrast to the creamy noodles.

Variations To Try

Kugel is incredibly versatile and adapts well to different flavor profiles. For a fruit-forward version, add 1 cup of raisins or dried cranberries to the noodle mixture before baking. Apple lovers can fold in 2 cups of peeled, diced apples and increase the cinnamon in both the filling and topping. For a citrus twist, add the zest of one orange or lemon to the custard mixture. If you prefer a less sweet kugel, reduce the sugar to 1/2 cup and use graham crackers instead of vanilla wafers for the topping. Each variation maintains the comforting essence of kugel while offering a new flavor experience.

Serving Suggestions

In Jewish homes, sweet kugel often appears at both holiday meals and regular Shabbat dinners. Serve warm slices alongside brisket or roast chicken for a traditional pairing. For brunch, kugel makes a delightful alternative to french toast or pancakes, especially when topped with a dollop of fresh fruit compote. When serving as dessert, a small scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of maple syrup takes this kugel to another level of indulgence. For potlucks, cut into smaller squares and arrange on a platter for an easy grab-and-go option that doesn't require reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare Vanilla Noodle Kugel in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Note that the topping may lose some of its crunchiness but will still taste delicious.

→ What type of milk works best for this kugel?

You can use any percentage of milk except nonfat. Whole milk provides a creamier texture, but low-fat options work well too.

→ How do I ensure my topping is crunchy?

Make sure to evenly moisten the cookie crumbs with melted butter and avoid overbaking. Bake until the topping is lightly browned.

→ Can I substitute the vanilla pudding?

Yes, you can use homemade vanilla custard as a substitute for the pudding, maintaining the creamy texture and flavor.

→ Is this dish served warm or cold?

This dish can be served warm or cold based on your preference. Both options are equally enjoyable.