Why You’ll Love this Sweet Kugel Recipe
Why will you love this Sweet Kugel recipe? Well, it’s a heartfelt combination of flavors and textures that’s simply irresistible!
Each bite offers a delightful blend of creamy cottage cheese and rich cream cheese, perfectly balanced with the sweetness of applesauce.
I can’t get enough of those juicy white raisins that pop in my mouth, bringing a burst of sweetness.
The warm spices, especially the hint of nutmeg, elevate the dish to comfort food status.
Plus, the crispy layer of crushed frosted flakes on top gives it an addictive crunch.
This kugel isn’t just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
You’ll definitely want seconds!
Ingredients of Sweet Kugel
When you’re ready to plunge into making this Cinnamon Applesauce Sweet Kugel, you’ll want to gather a few key ingredients that come together to create that cozy, heartwarming dish we all love.
It’s amazing how simple items can turn into something so delicious and comforting. I mean, who knew noodles could be the star of a sweet dessert? So, let’s make sure you have everything you need before we start this delightful journey in the kitchen.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this scrumptious kugel:
- 1 (1 lb) package of noodles, cooked and drained
- 6 eggs, beaten
- 1 (8 ounce) package of cream cheese
- 1 1/2 lbs of cottage cheese
- 1 (16 ounce) jar of applesauce (cinnamon flavored is the best)
- 1 cup of white raisins
- 1 1/2 cups of sugar
- A dash of nutmeg
- A sprinkle of cinnamon
- 1/2 cup of butter, melted
- Crushed frosted flakes (enough to cover the kugel)
- Additional butter, melted (enough to moisten the flakes)
Now, before you start gathering these ingredients, let’s chat a bit about some considerations.
First off, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing—unless you enjoy wrestling with clumps of cheese, which I can assure you isn’t as fun as it sounds.
And don’t skimp on the spices; that hint of nutmeg is what takes this kugel from good to “Oh my gosh, can I’ve another slice?”
Also, feel free to get creative with the raisins; if you’re not a fan, you could swap them for chopped apples or even some dried cranberries.
Just remember, this sweet kugel is all about personal touches, so make it your own! Now, let’s get cooking.
How to Make Sweet Kugel
Alright, let’s explore the delightful process of making this Cinnamon Applesauce Sweet Kugel. First off, preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This step is essential, or you might find yourself waiting and wondering why your kitchen isn’t filling with that warm, sweet aroma.
While that’s happening, grab your trusty 9 x 13 baking dish and melt 1/2 cup of butter right in it. I mean, who doesn’t love a dish that starts with butter? It gets even better when you mix the other ingredients.
Now, in a large mixing bowl, combine your cooked and drained 1 lb package of noodles with 6 beaten eggs, an 8-ounce package of cream cheese, and 1 1/2 lbs of cottage cheese. The cream cheese should be at room temperature, or you might end up with some awkward lumps—kind of like that time I tried to impress my friends with my “amazing” cooking skills and ended up with a lumpy disaster.
Anyway, back to the kugel! Add in your 16-ounce jar of applesauce (cinnamon-flavored is truly the star here), 1 cup of white raisins, and 1 1/2 cups of sugar. Don’t forget a sprinkle of cinnamon and a dash of nutmeg. Trust me, these spices make all the difference. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and gooey.
Once you’ve got that delicious mixture ready, pour it into your melted butter-coated baking dish. Now, let’s talk topping! In a separate bowl, take your crushed frosted flakes and mix them with enough melted butter to moisten. You want that perfect balance of crunchiness on top.
Sprinkle this mixture generously over your kugel, and then cover it with foil. Bake it in the preheated oven for 1 hour. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes. Just keep an eye on it—if the top starts getting a little too toasty for your liking, feel free to cover it back up.
And there you have it, a comforting dish that could easily become your new favorite dessert. Enjoy!
Sweet Kugel Substitutions & Variations
While traditional sweet kugel is a beloved classic, there are plenty of substitutions and variations that can give this dish a fresh twist.
For instance, if you’re not a fan of cottage cheese, try ricotta for a creamier texture. You can also swap out the applesauce for mashed bananas or pureed pumpkin to create different flavors.
If you want a nutty crunch, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the mix. For a touch of decadence, use flavored cream cheese like vanilla or strawberry.
Finally, if you’re looking for a healthier option, replace sugar with honey or maple syrup.
These substitutions keep the spirit of sweet kugel alive while allowing you to experiment with new tastes and textures!
What to Serve with Sweet Kugel
If you’re wondering what to serve with sweet kugel, you’ll find that its rich, sweet flavors pair beautifully with a variety of dishes.
For a balanced meal, I love serving it alongside roasted chicken or honey-glazed ham. The savory proteins complement the sweetness of the kugel perfectly.
A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a rejuvenating contrast that brightens the plate. You might also consider some steamed vegetables, like green beans or carrots, to round out the meal.
If it’s a holiday gathering, serving sweet kugel with brisket can elevate the entire spread.
And don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on the side for a creamy touch that enhances the kugel’s flavors.
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your sweet kugel turns out perfectly, I recommend paying close attention to the temperature and timing during baking. Make certain your oven is fully preheated to 350 degrees before placing your kugel inside.
While it bakes, cover it with foil for the first hour to keep it moist. After that, uncover it and check frequently to verify the top doesn’t burn. If it starts browning too quickly, simply re-cover it with foil.
I also suggest letting the kugel rest for about 15-20 minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to cut.
Finally, feel free to experiment with add-ins like chopped nuts or different dried fruits for a personal touch!