Orange-scented Noodle Kugel

Ingredients

• 3
  
  ounces dried apricots, coarsely chopped, or dried sour cherries
  
• 1/4
  
  cup light or dark raisins
  
• 8
  
  ounces wide egg noodles
  
• 4
  
  large eggs
  
• 1/2
  
  cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
  
• 2
  
  tablespoons heavy cream
  
• 1/4
  
  cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  
• 1/2
  
  cup granulated sugar
  
• 1
  
  teaspoon ground cinnamon
  
• 1/2
  
  teaspoon vanilla extract
  
• 
  
  grated zest of one orange
  
• 1
  
  pinch salt
  

Directions

1. Pre-heat oven to 350º and butter a 9-inch square glass baking dish.
2. Fill a large pot with cold water and bring to the boil.
3. Place dried fruits in a small heatproof bowl and remove a ladleful or two of the boiling water to the bowl of fruits to soften.
4. Back to the kettle of boiling water: salt it well and add the egg noodles. Boil per package directions or until tender (about 9-10 minutes). Drain in a colander, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine eggs, ricotta, cream, butter, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla and zest. Add pinch of salt. Whisk briskly to combine.
6. Drain fruits and add to egg mixture. Stir noodles in, and fold to combine well. Pour mixture into pan. Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes, then uncover and bake 20-40 minutes longer (keep an eye on it) to brown the top.