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Sweet and Savory Kugel for Rosh Hashanah Celebrations

Sweet and Savory Kugel for Rosh Hashanah Celebrations

This classic dish brings together tender noodles, sweet raisins, and a hint of cinnamon for a festive start to the new year.

A heartwarming Ashkenazi noodle kugel recipe perfect for your Rosh Hashanah table, blending tradition with comforting flavors.

Image illustrating:Sweet and Savory Kugel for Rosh Hashanah Celebrations

15 January 19:49

David Pliner

Culinary & Israeli Heritage Enthusiast

Celebrate Rosh Hashanah with this traditional Ashkenazi kugel recipe, blending sweet and savory flavors for a festive holiday table.

Health Benefits

Provides a comforting source of energy from noodles and dairy.
Includes protein from eggs and cottage cheese.
Can be made with reduced sugar for a lighter version.

Ingredients

Egg noodles

12 oz

Eggs

4 large

Sour cream

1 cup

Cottage cheese

1 cup

Sugar

1/2 cup

Butter, melted

1/4 cup

Vanilla extract

1 tsp

Ground cinnamon

1 tsp

Salt

1/2 tsp

Raisins

1/2 cup

Chef's Tips for the Perfect Kugel

For a richer flavor, use full-fat sour cream and whole milk. If you like a crispier top, sprinkle a little extra sugar and cinnamon before baking. Let the kugel rest for at least 15 minutes after baking to set properly. You can also add chopped apples or pears for a fruity twist that complements the sweetness of the dish.

Instructions

1

1

Cook the noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until just tender, about 6–8 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2

2

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
3

3

Mix the wet ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, cottage cheese, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined.
4

4

Combine noodles and raisins

Add the cooked noodles and raisins to the egg mixture. Stir gently to coat all the noodles evenly without breaking them.
5

5

Transfer to baking dish

Pour the noodle mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon and sugar on top for a sweet crust.
6

6

Bake the kugel

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
7

7

Cool and serve

Remove the kugel from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature as part of your Rosh Hashanah meal.

A Taste of Tradition: The Story Behind Rosh Hashanah Kugel

Kugel has been a staple of Ashkenazi Jewish cuisine for centuries, especially during festive holidays like Rosh Hashanah.

The origins of kugel trace back to medieval Germany, where Jewish communities adapted local noodle and pudding dishes into something uniquely their own. Over time, this humble dish evolved, incorporating regional ingredients and flavors. In Eastern Europe, sweet kugels became especially popular, often made with raisins, cinnamon, and sugar to symbolize a sweet new year.
For many families, kugel is more than just a side dish—it’s a cherished memory of grandmothers cooking in warm kitchens, of laughter and stories shared around the holiday table. The sweet aroma of baked noodles and cinnamon evokes a deep sense of comfort and belonging, connecting generations through taste and tradition.
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is a time of reflection and hope. Foods served during this holiday often carry symbolic meanings. Sweet dishes like kugel represent the wish for a sweet year ahead. Including kugel in the Rosh Hashanah meal is a way to honor heritage while embracing the promise of renewal.

Sweet kugel is often served alongside savory dishes, creating a delightful contrast on the holiday table.

In Ashkenazi homes, kugel recipes are often passed down through generations, each with its own unique twist. Some families prefer a creamier texture, while others add crushed cornflakes on top for a crunchy finish. Regardless of the variation, the essence of kugel remains the same: a dish that brings people together.
The balance of sweet and savory in kugel mirrors the balance we seek in life—joy and reflection, tradition and innovation. Preparing kugel for Rosh Hashanah is not just about cooking; it’s about participating in a ritual that ties us to our ancestors and to the broader story of the Jewish people.
Today, kugel continues to be a beloved part of Jewish holiday meals around the world. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, as a side or even a dessert, its comforting flavors remind us of home, family, and the enduring spirit of tradition.