Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cinnamon Cherry Apple Matzoh Kugel Delight?
It is a traditional Passover dish made with matzah, spiced apples, and eggs, finished with a sweet cherry preserve glaze.
Is this kugel recipe suitable for Passover?
Yes, it is specifically designed for Passover as it uses matzos instead of flour or noodles.
How many eggs are required for this recipe?
This recipe requires 6 large eggs to create a light and fluffy texture.
What oven temperature is needed to bake the kugel?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
What size baking dish should I use?
You should use a 9x13-inch baking dish greased with butter or margarine.
How do I prepare the matzos before mixing?
Break 5 sheets of matzos into small pieces, soak them briefly in boiling water, and then drain them well.
Can I make this kugel dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with margarine to make it suitable for a meat meal or dairy-free diet.
How many apples do I need for the recipe?
The recipe calls for 6 large apples that should be peeled and chopped.
How much sugar is included in this kugel?
The recipe uses 1 cup of sugar mixed into the egg base.
What spices are used to flavor the dish?
The dish is flavored with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon and 1 teaspoon of salt.
What is the total baking time?
The kugel bakes for 1 hour initially, plus an additional 10 minutes after adding the cherry preserves.
When should I add the cherry preserves?
Spread the cherry preserves over the top after the initial 1 hour of baking, then return it to the oven for 10 minutes.
How do I check if the kugel is fully cooked?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean and the top should be golden.
Can this recipe be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld, and simply reheat it before serving.
Is it possible to freeze the kugel?
Yes, you can freeze the kugel. It is recommended to freeze it without the preserves and add them fresh when reheating.
How much butter is used in the mixture?
The recipe uses 0.25 pounds of melted butter, which is equivalent to one stick.
How should I beat the eggs for the best texture?
Beat the eggs until they are light and fluffy to create an airy texture for the kugel.
What kind of cherry preserves should I use?
The recipe specifies 12 ounces of cherry preserves for the topping.
Should the matzo pieces be large or small?
The matzo sheets should be broken into small pieces for better integration with the egg mixture.
Does this recipe contain nuts?
No, the standard recipe does not include nuts, making it a safe choice for those with nut allergies.
Can I serve this as a side dish or dessert?
It is versatile and can be served either as a sweet side dish during the main meal or as a holiday dessert.
How do I ensure the apples are well distributed?
Gently fold the chopped apples into the mixture after the butter is added, ensuring they are evenly spread throughout.
Is the water used for soaking matzo cold or hot?
You must use boiling water to soak the matzo pieces briefly to soften them.
What is the primary flavor profile of this dish?
It is a sweet and warm dish characterized by cinnamon, tart cherry, and spiced apples.
How should I reheat the kugel if I made it ahead?
Reheat it in the oven until warm, then add the cherry preserves on top for the final 10 minutes of heating.
Can I use other types of fruit besides apples?
While the recipe specifies apples, you could experiment with pears, though it would change the traditional profile.
Does the recipe require peeling the apples?
Yes, the recipe suggests peeling and chopping the apples for the best consistency.
Is this a gluten-free recipe?
No, matzah is made from wheat. To make it gluten-free, you would need to use certified gluten-free matzah.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
A 9x13-inch pan typically yields 12 to 15 servings depending on how large you cut the pieces.
What provides the gloss on top of the kugel?
The cherry preserves create a beautiful glossy layer when warmed in the oven for the final stage of baking.