Description

This Apricot Swirl and Cinnamon Top noodle kugel offers crispy edges and a creamy, tender center, perfect as an easy meal or a standout side dish for any gathering. Passed down through generations, it’s a versatile, family-friendly dish.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz wide egg noodles, medium
16 oz cottage cheese
8 oz sour cream
8 oz cream cheese, softened
4 large eggs
0.5 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
0.5 cup apricot preserves
2 tbsp granulated sugar (for topping)
1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)
1 tbsp butter, softened (for greasing dish)

Instructions

Prep Noodles: Cook 12 oz wide egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain very well, then rinse with cold water to stop the cooking and prevent sticking. Let them sit in the colander for a few extra minutes to get rid of excess water.
Mix Dairy Base: In a large bowl, combine 16 oz cottage cheese, 8 oz sour cream, 8 oz softened cream cheese, 4 large eggs, 0.5 cup granulated sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Whisk or mix with an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. (If your cream cheese wasn’t soft enough and created lumps, a quick blend with an immersion blender can smooth out the dairy mixture before adding noodles.)
Combine and Swirl: Gently fold the drained noodles into the dairy mixture until they are fully coated. Pour half of this noodle mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Dollop 0.5 cup apricot preserves over the noodles, then use a knife to gently swirl the fruit through. Top with the remaining noodle mixture, spreading evenly.
Prepare Cinnamon Topping: In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp granulated sugar and 1 tsp ground cinnamon until well combined.
Apply Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top of the noodle kugel. Bake in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) for 45-55 minutes. The kugel should be set in the center, golden brown on top, and slightly puffed. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.

Notes

Avoid overcooking noodles initially as they will continue to cook in the oven, ensuring a tender, not mushy, result. Ensure cream cheese is softened for a smooth, creamy base without unwanted lumps. Do not overbake; look for a golden top and a clean knife test to prevent dryness. For dietary adjustments, consider plant-based dairy, reducing granulated sugar, or using gluten-free noodles.

Prep Time: 22 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Side Dish, Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (120 g)
Calories: 380 calories
Sugar: 30 g
Sodium: 250 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 12 g
Cholesterol: 100 mg

Keywords: noodle kugel, apricot swirl, cinnamon, easy dinner, family-friendly, side dish, comfort food, sweet, creamy, baked