Cherry Granola Kugel Recipe
This Cherry Granola Kugel is a delightful, sweet twist on a classic kugel, offering a perfect combination of creamy richness, crunchy granola, and a touch of cinnamon-spiced goodness. Ideal for breakfast or a special treat, this dish will leave everyone asking for more. The balance of tangy cream cheese, the lightness of egg noodles, and the comforting crunch of granola makes this kugel a memorable dish to serve during any occasion. Its simplicity and rich flavor will transport you to the heart of European kitchens, where kugels are celebrated for their delicious versatility.
Recipe Overview
| Category | Breakfast, Dessert, Kosher |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | European |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 1 hour |
| Total Time | 1 hour 10 minutes |
| Servings | 10 servings |
| Calories per Serving | 556.9 kcal |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz |
| Eggs | 1 |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Milk | 1 to 1 1/2 cups |
| Granola cereal | 4 cups |
| Butter (for topping) | 1/4 cup |
| Ground cinnamon (for topping) | 1 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 556.9 kcal |
| Fat | 29.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 178.3 mg |
| Sodium | 226.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 62.5 g |
| Fiber | 3.4 g |
| Sugar | 25.2 g |
| Protein | 12.3 g |
Instructions
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Preheat Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that it is at the ideal temperature for baking your kugel to golden perfection. -
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Prepare Pan:
Lightly grease a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent the kugel from sticking during baking. Set the pan aside. -
Cook the Noodles:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once the noodles are done, drain them thoroughly. Put them back into the pot and place it over low heat to keep the noodles warm. -
Mix Butter and Cream Cheese:
To the warm noodles, add 1/2 cup of butter and the cream cheese. Stir the mixture gently until both the butter and cream cheese have melted and combined with the noodles, forming a creamy base for your kugel. -
Combine Eggs and Milk:
In a separate bowl, beat the egg and milk together until smooth and well-blended. Gradually pour this mixture into the noodle mixture, stirring constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs. -
Add Flavorings:
Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon into the noodle mixture and stir. Then, fold in cherries (fresh or dried) and cherry preserves, ensuring an even distribution of fruit and flavor throughout the kugel. -
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Carefully pour the noodle mixture into the prepared 13 x 9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. -
Prepare Granola Topping:
In a small bowl, combine granola cereal, 1/4 cup of butter, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix well until the granola is coated with the butter and cinnamon. -
Top the Kugel:
Sprinkle the granola mixture evenly over the top of the kugel, creating a crispy, flavorful topping. -
Bake the Kugel:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the kugel is golden brown and the granola has crisped up beautifully. -
Serve:
Once baked, remove the kugel from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Slice into squares or rectangles and enjoy this indulgent treat.
Tips for the Perfect Cherry Granola Kugel
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Customize the Fruit: If you’re not a fan of cherries, feel free to substitute them with your favorite dried fruit such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots. You could even use fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a fresher twist.
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Vegan Option: For a vegan-friendly version of this kugel, swap the cream cheese for a non-dairy cream cheese alternative and use a plant-based butter and milk. Make sure to replace the egg with a suitable egg replacer, such as flax eggs or aquafaba.
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Add a Crunch: For even more texture, try adding a handful of chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, to the granola topping. This will provide a satisfying crunch and extra depth of flavor.
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Perfect for Breakfast or Dessert: Although this dish can be served at any time of day, it’s particularly delightful as a breakfast or dessert. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of fresh juice for a balanced start to your day or a sweet treat after dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Granola Kugel
This kugel is perfect for anyone who enjoys the balance of creamy and crunchy textures in one dish. The butter, cream cheese, and eggs work together to create a rich, smooth base, while the cinnamon adds warmth and depth. The granola topping not only gives a satisfying crunch but also provides a delightful sweetness. Whether you’re serving it at a family breakfast or for a special holiday, this kugel is sure to be a hit.
FAQs
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Can I make this kugel ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it as instructed, allow it to cool, and then cover it with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in the oven for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F until heated through. -
Can I freeze this kugel?
Yes, you can freeze the kugel for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for 30-40 minutes or until fully heated through. -
What is the best way to store leftover kugel?
Leftover kugel should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
This Cherry Granola Kugel is a delicious, comforting dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether it’s your first time making kugel or you’re revisiting an old favorite, this recipe will quickly become a cherished part of your breakfast or dessert repertoire. Enjoy!
