Name: Cinnamon Kugel Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Jewish
Ingredients: 1 12oz bag of egg noodles, cooked and drained; 5 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 2 cups cottage cheese (16 oz); 1 cup sour cream; 1¼ cups white granulated sugar; ½ cup butter (one stick), melted; 6 oz cream cheese, room temperature; 1½ teaspoons salt; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; ⅓ cup white granulated sugar; ⅓ cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 7 reviews

If you have been curious about trying a classic Jewish dessert with a soulful twist, the Cinnamon Kugel Recipe is a perfect introduction. This irresistibly creamy, sweet noodle pudding combines tender egg noodles with a luscious blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and just the right amount of cinnamon-spiced sugar topping. Every bite is a comforting hug in dessert form, balancing silky textures and warm flavors that make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for holidays, family dinners, or any time you want to treat yourself to something special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass rectangular dish filled with two visible layers: the bottom layer is a creamy pale sauce with a smooth texture that shines under light, and the top layer is made of twisted yellow egg noodles scattered evenly and partly coated in the sauce, showing a soft and slightly wrinkled texture, set on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

One of the beauties of this Cinnamon Kugel Recipe is how the simple, everyday ingredients come together to create something truly magical. Each plays a vital role, from the creamy dairy that offers richness to the sugary cinnamon topping that gives a delightful crunch and warmth.

12 oz egg noodles: The tender base that absorbs all the delicious flavors and provides satisfying texture.
5 large eggs: Bind everything together to give the kugel a rich, custardy consistency.
2 cups milk: Adds moisture and creaminess to soften the noodles perfectly.
2 cups cottage cheese (16 oz): Brings a gentle tang and creaminess that complements the sour cream.
1 cup sour cream: Lends a smooth, velvety texture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
1 ¼ cups white granulated sugar: Sweetens the pudding base for that classic dessert flavor.
½ cup butter (one stick), melted: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients while contributing deep flavor.
6 oz cream cheese, room temperature: Intensifies the creamy texture and adds a subtle tangy depth.
1 ½ teaspoons salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the kugel from tasting flat.
1 tablespoon vanilla: Infuses the dish with warm, sweet notes that lift the entire flavor profile.
⅓ cup white granulated sugar: Used for the cinnamon sugar topping for extra sweetness and crunch.
⅓ cup brown sugar: Gives a molasses richness to the topping, enhancing the cinnamon’s warmth.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: The star spice that transforms this kugel into a fragrant, cozy treat.

How to Make Cinnamon Kugel Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Oven

Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your kugel doesn’t stick and preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Cooking the noodles and draining them well is key to ensuring your kugel won’t become mushy—make sure they’re tender but firm.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cottage cheese, sour cream, white granulated sugar, melted butter, cream cheese, salt, and vanilla. This mix is where the magic happens; stirring thoroughly ensures your kugel will have a smooth, cohesive texture with lovely hints of tang and sweetness.

Step 3: Combine Noodles and Base

Fold the cooked noodles gently into your egg and dairy mixture, making sure every noodle is coated with the rich custard. Then transfer it all into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly for consistent baking.

Step 4: Prepare and Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the white sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Evenly sprinkle this fragrant topping over the noodle mixture to create a crunchy, sweet crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden Perfection

Pop your kugel in the oven and bake for about 1 hour or until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp. This baking time develops that signature combination of creamy, tender noodles beneath a caramelized cinnamon sugar crust.

How to Serve Cinnamon Kugel Recipe

A glass baking dish filled with a layered noodle casserole, showing one thick layer of wide, flat noodles mixed with a creamy sauce. The top layer is browned and slightly crispy with golden and light brown spots, and some edges of the noodles are curled up and darker. There is a subtle dusting of cinnamon or similar spice on the surface, adding a light rusty color across the creamy, textured top. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a white cloth with green stripes partially visible in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To enhance your Cinnamon Kugel Recipe presentation, consider a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of honey for added sweetness and shine. Fresh berries or a sprig of mint can bring a refreshing contrast to the warm cinnamon flavors.

Side Dishes

This cinnamon kugel pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like roast chicken, glazed carrots, or even a fresh green salad. Its sweet and creamy profile balances out more robust, savory flavors beautifully, making it perfect for a festive meal or holiday spread.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, consider serving individual portions in small ramekins or cast iron skillets. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of whipped cream on top for a dessert-style treat that’s sure to wow your guests and brighten any meal occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover kugel keeps well covered in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its moist, creamy texture without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover kugel by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. It’s best eaten within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for optimal texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm up your kugel gently in a 350-degree oven until heated through, usually about 20 minutes if refrigerated. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook to avoid drying out the creamy interior.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of noodles for this kugel?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and provide the ideal texture, you can experiment with other pasta like wide pappardelle or even small shells, but keep in mind that cooking times and textures may vary slightly.

Is the cinnamon sugar topping necessary?

The cinnamon sugar topping is a hallmark of this Cinnamon Kugel Recipe, adding a delightful sweet crunch and warming spice that lifts the entire dish. You could omit it if you prefer a less sweet kugel, but it’s highly recommended.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

To make this kugel dairy-free, try substituting the milk, cream cheese, cottage cheese, and sour cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut yogurt. The texture will differ slightly but can still be delicious.

How sweet is this kugel?

This recipe strikes a lovely balance, offering a sweet but not overpowering flavor. The cinnamon sugar topping adds that extra touch of sweetness and spice that makes it special, perfect for dessert or a sweet side dish.

Is this kugel served warm or cold?

Cinnamon kugel is traditionally served warm or at room temperature. Warm kugel provides a comforting, freshly baked experience, while at room temperature, the flavors meld beautifully and it’s just as delightful.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Kugel Recipe is one of those treasured dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Its creamy texture, nostalgic cinnamon notes, and sweet, crunchy topping make it a true gem in any kitchen. I can’t encourage you enough to give it a try—you’ll quickly understand why it’s a beloved classic and might just become your new favorite comforting dessert or side dish.