Butternut Squash Apple Bake Recipe
There is something truly magical about the warm, cozy flavors of the Butternut Squash Apple Bake, a delightful dish that brings together the natural sweetness of autumn’s finest ingredients with a touch of spice and nuttiness. This recipe perfectly balances tender butternut squash and crisp apples infused with cinnamon, vanilla, and a hint of brown sugar, all baked to perfection with plump raisins, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans. Whether you’re looking for a hearty side or a unique centerpiece, this Butternut Squash Apple Bake is guaranteed to fill your kitchen with inviting aromas and your table with joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple but carefully chosen ingredients make all the difference in this Butternut Squash Apple Bake. Each one plays a vital role, whether adding sweetness, texture, or a warm depth of flavor that turns this dish into an irresistible treat.
- 1 1/2 pounds butternut squash, peeled and cubed: The star of the dish, it offers a sweet, creamy base that roasts beautifully.
- 2 gala apples, peeled and diced: Their natural sweetness and crispness provide a lovely contrast to the soft squash.
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon: Brings cozy warmth and aromatic spice that ties the flavors together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth that rounds out the spices perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey): Lends a rich caramel-like sweetness that caramelizes during baking.
- 2 tablespoons butter, chopped: Distributes creamy richness as it melts through the bake.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural sweetness and balances the overall flavor.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper: A subtle, unexpected warmth that complements the cinnamon.
- 1/4 cup raisins: Little bursts of sweetness that add chewy texture throughout.
- 1/4 cup pecans (or walnuts): Adds a crunchy contrast and nutty flavor.
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries: Tartness that brightens the dish and balances the sweetness.
How to Make Butternut Squash Apple Bake
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s nice and hot when the bake goes in. This high temperature helps the squash and apples roast perfectly, developing sweet, caramelized edges you’ll love.
Step 2: Combine Your Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cubed butternut squash, diced apples, cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar. Get your hands in there or use a big spoon to make sure every piece is evenly coated with those warm spices and sweetness. This mixture promises a beautiful depth of flavor once baked.
Step 3: Season It Right
Add salt and black pepper to the bowl and mix well again. The salt will enhance the natural sweetness of the squash and apples, while the pepper gives just a whisper of heat that perfectly balances the cinnamon’s cozy vibe.
Step 4: Bake with Butter
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish with a lid, spreading it out evenly. Dot the chopped butter across the top of the mixture for those pockets of rich flavor. Cover the dish and bake for 15 minutes—this starts the cooking process gently so the squash maintains a great texture.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Continue Baking
After the initial bake, sprinkle raisins, dried cranberries, and pecans over the top. Use tongs or a big spoon to gently toss everything together, combining those bursts of sweetness and crunch with the soft veggies and fruit. Cover again and bake for another 15 minutes until the squash is tender and the top is lightly browned and fragrant.
Step 6: Final Touches and Serve Warm
Once done, remove your Butternut Squash Apple Bake from the oven, give it a last stir to mix the toppings evenly, and serve it warm. The aromas will be intoxicating, and every bite brings a cozy comfort that’s perfect for chilly days.
How to Serve Butternut Squash Apple Bake
Garnishes
To elevate your dish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a few extra toasted pecans on top for a fresh, vibrant burst of flavor and an added crunch. A light drizzle of maple syrup can also add an extra touch of sweetness that pairs gorgeously with the spices.
Side Dishes
This bake shines alongside roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or even a simple toasted baguette. The sweet and savory profile complements meat beautifully, but it’s also satisfying enough to stand alone as a vegetarian dish paired with a crisp green salad.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive presentation, serve the Butternut Squash Apple Bake in individual ramekins topped with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt. You could also use it as a hearty filling inside baked acorn squash halves for a stunning holiday table centerpiece that everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually develop even more on day two, making it a fantastic next-day treat. Just make sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze the Butternut Squash Apple Bake for longer storage. Place it in a freezer-safe dish or bag, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350-degree oven covered with foil to prevent drying out, or warm individual portions in the microwave. Adding a small pat of butter before reheating can help refresh the creamy texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely! While gala apples are recommended for their natural sweetness and balance, you can substitute with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or even Granny Smith if you prefer a tarter contrast.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the Butternut Squash Apple Bake is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Simply replace the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil to keep the rich, creamy texture while maintaining vegan-friendly ingredients.
How can I add more spice to this dish?
For a spicier twist, add a pinch of ground nutmeg or cloves alongside the cinnamon, or sprinkle chili flakes for a subtle heat that pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness.
Is it possible to make this dish without nuts?
Definitely! If you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans and replace them with extra dried fruit or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, give the Butternut Squash Apple Bake a try. It’s an easy-to-make, flavorful dish that brings a touch of autumn magic to your dinner table. Trust me, once you taste the rich layers of flavor and comforting sweetness, it’ll quickly become a staple you want to share with everyone you love.
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Butternut Squash Apple Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is a delightful, comforting dish combining tender butternut squash with sweet gala apples, warm cinnamon, and a medley of raisins, cranberries, and pecans. Baked to perfection with buttery accents, it’s a perfect side dish or vegetarian main for autumn and winter meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and small cubed (about 2 cups)
- 2 gala apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
- 2 tablespoons butter, chopped into sections
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Add-ins
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup pecans (or walnuts)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking the dish evenly and developing a lightly browned crust.
- Combine base ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cubed butternut squash, diced apples, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and brown sugar thoroughly. This blends the sweet and warm flavors evenly throughout the dish.
- Season: Add the salt and black pepper to the mixture and stir well to balance the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Prepare baking dish: Pour the combined butternut squash and apple mixture into a lidded baking dish, spreading it out evenly to allow for uniform cooking.
- Add butter and initial bake: Dot the mixture with the chopped butter, distributing it evenly to melt into the dish during baking. Cover with the lid and bake for 15 minutes to start softening the squash and melding flavors.
- Add dried fruits and nuts: Remove the dish and sprinkle in the raisins, dried cranberries, and pecans. Gently toss them into the mixture using tongs or a spoon, then cover and return to the oven for another 15 minutes until the squash is tender and the top is lightly browned.
- Final stir and serve: Remove from the oven, stir gently to combine all the ingredients, and serve warm as a flavorful side dish or vegetarian main course.
Notes
- Use a sweet apple variety like Gala or Fuji for the best flavor balance.
- Honey can be substituted for brown sugar if preferred for a natural sweetener.
- For a nuttier taste, try walnuts instead of pecans.
- Make sure to peel and evenly cube the butternut squash for even cooking.
- Serve this dish alongside roasted meats or as a vegetarian main with a side salad.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: butternut squash bake, apple and squash casserole, fall side dish, vegetarian bake, cinnamon apple dish
