Sweet Noodle Kugel (Dairy or Pareve Versions)

Name: Sweet Noodle Kugel (Dairy or Pareve Versions) – A Jewish Holiday Classic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Jewish
Ingredients: 12 oz wide egg noodles; 4 large eggs; 1 cup non-dairy sour cream (soy or coconut-based); 1 cup non-dairy cream cheese (pareve); ½ cup sugar (or maple syrup); ½ cup oil (neutral, like canola or sunflower); ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp cinnamon; Pinch of salt

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Few dishes capture the warmth of Ashkenazi Jewish tradition like Sweet Noodle Kugel (Dairy or Pareve Versions). This baked noodle pudding is creamy, slightly sweet, and often enjoyed at festive gatherings like Shabbat, Rosh Hashanah, and Yom Kippur break-fasts.

While the classic version is made with egg noodles, dairy, sugar, and sometimes raisins, modern adaptations allow for pareve (non-dairy) versions so it can be served with meat meals. Whether creamy and cheesy or light and dairy-free, sweet noodle kugel remains a beloved comfort dish.

👉 For another Jewish holiday staple, pair it with Tzimmes, a sweet carrot and sweet potato side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Noodle Kugel

🍝 Versatile: Works with dairy or pareve ingredients.
🍯 Sweet comfort food: Custardy noodles baked to golden perfection.
🕍 Holiday tradition: A staple at Jewish celebrations.
🕰️ Make-ahead friendly: Perfect reheated for large gatherings.
🌟 Crowd-pleaser: Familiar flavors that everyone enjoys.

Ingredients for Sweet Noodle Kugel (Dairy Version)

12 oz wide egg noodles
4 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta
½ cup cream cheese, softened
½ cup sugar (or honey)
½ cup raisins (optional)
½ cup melted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Sweet Noodle Kugel (Dairy or Pareve Versions) – A Jewish Holiday Classic 13

Ingredients for Sweet Noodle Kugel (Pareve Version)

12 oz wide egg noodles
4 large eggs
1 cup non-dairy sour cream (soy or coconut-based)
1 cup non-dairy cream cheese (pareve)
½ cup sugar (or maple syrup)
½ cup oil (neutral, like canola or sunflower)
½ cup raisins or dried cranberries
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp cinnamon
Pinch of salt

How to Make Sweet Noodle Kugel

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven: 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook noodles: Boil egg noodles until al dente, then drain.
Mix custard: In a large bowl, whisk eggs with dairy or pareve ingredients, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
Combine: Fold noodles and raisins into custard mixture.
Bake: Pour into prepared dish, cover loosely with foil, and bake 45 minutes. Remove foil, bake an additional 15–20 minutes until golden on top.
Cool slightly: Let kugel rest 10–15 minutes before slicing.

💡 Tip: For an extra-crispy topping, sprinkle with crushed cornflakes or streusel before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve kugel warm as a side dish or dessert.
Pair with brisket, roast chicken, or tzimmes for holiday meals.
Enjoy leftover kugel at breakfast with coffee or tea.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate kugel for up to 4 days.
Freeze tightly wrapped slices for up to 2 months.
Reheat covered in oven at 325°F until warmed through.

Variations & Creative Twists

Apple kugel: Add sliced apples or applesauce.
Nutty topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free egg noodles.
Mini kugels: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.

FAQ – Sweet Noodle Kugel (Dairy or Pareve Versions)

Does noodle kugel need to be refrigerated?

Yes. Because it contains eggs and dairy (or non-dairy substitutes), noodle kugel should be refrigerated once cooled.

How to know when kugel is done?

The top should be golden brown, and the custard set. A knife inserted should come out mostly clean.

Where is sweet kugel from?

Kugel originates from Eastern Europe, where Jewish communities created variations with noodles, potatoes, and bread. Sweet noodle kugel became popular among Ashkenazi Jews.

What do you eat with kugel?

Kugel pairs well with brisket, roast chicken, tzimmes, challah, and holiday soups. It can also be enjoyed as a dessert.

Recipes You May Like

Tzimmes – carrot & sweet potato stew with honey
Oven-Braised Brisket – sweet & savory holiday brisket
Round Challah – festive Rosh Hashanah bread

Conclusion

The Sweet Noodle Kugel (Dairy or Pareve Versions) is a timeless dish that bridges tradition and versatility. Whether served at Rosh Hashanah, Shabbat, or family gatherings, its sweet custard flavor and golden noodles bring comfort and celebration to every table.

👉 Browse more Jewish holiday recipes and keep tradition alive with dishes that connect generations.