Butternut Squash Apple Bake

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that brings the essence of fall to your table, then this Butternut Squash Apple Bake is just what you need! The combination of sweet butternut squash and tart apples creates a delightful balance that warms the heart. This recipe holds a special place in my kitchen, not just because it’s delicious, but also because it’s so easy to make. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering, this dish will surely impress.

I love how this bake is not only tasty but also packed with wholesome ingredients. It’s one of those recipes where you can feel good about what you’re serving. Plus, it works beautifully as both a side dish and a light dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet and savory flavors that come together in each bite.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon, apples, and squash creates an irresistible aroma that will fill your home.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for Thanksgiving or any occasion where comfort food is needed!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need for this delicious recipe!

For the Bake

• 1 1/2 pounds peeled (seeded, and small cubed butternut squash {about 2 cups, cubed evenly})
• 2 gala apples (peeled, cored and diced {or a sweet apple of your choice})
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar {or use honey}
• 2 tablespoons butter (chopped into sections)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup pecans {or walnuts}
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries

Variations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have available at home.

• Add more fruit: Feel free to toss in some chopped pears or dried apricots for extra sweetness!
• Change up the nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. This step ensures that your bake cooks evenly and achieves the perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Combine the Main Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash cubes, diced apples, cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar. Mix everything well to coat each piece with those warm spices. This mixture is going to create that wonderful flavor profile we all love!

Step 3: Season It Up

Add the salt and black pepper to the mix. Stir again until every ingredient is combined. This seasoning highlights the natural sweetness of the squash and apples while balancing their flavors.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Pour your butternut squash mixture into a baking dish with a lid. Spread it out evenly so that everything bakes properly. Covering it helps retain moisture during the first part of baking.

Step 5: Add Butter & Bake

Place chopped pieces of butter throughout the mixture. Cover the dish and bake for 15 minutes. This allows everything to soften beautifully before adding more ingredients.

Step 6: Toss in Dried Fruits & Nuts

After 15 minutes, carefully add raisins, cranberries, and pecans into the baking dish. Use tongs or a spoon to toss everything together gently. Cover again and return it to the oven for another 15 minutes until everything is tender and lightly browned.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Once done baking, remove from the oven and give everything a good stir before serving warm. Enjoy every bite of this delightful Butternut Squash Apple Bake—it’s sure to become a new favorite at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Creating the perfect Butternut Squash Apple Bake is a delightful experience, and these tips will ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for sweet varieties like Gala or Honeycrisp. They balance the savory elements of the squash and enhance the overall flavor profile.

• Uniform Cubes: Cut your butternut squash and apples into evenly-sized cubes. This ensures even cooking, so some pieces don’t end up undercooked while others are overdone.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth. These spices complement the fall flavors beautifully and can be adjusted to suit your taste.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh butternut squash and crisp apples really make this dish shine. They not only provide better flavor but also enhance the texture of your bake.

• Let it Rest: After taking it out of the oven, let your bake sit covered for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together nicely.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Presenting your Butternut Squash Apple Bake can be as delightful as preparing it! Here are some creative ideas to elevate your serving style.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or sage adds a beautiful pop of color and brings freshness to each bite.
• Toasted Nuts: Top with additional toasted pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch that enhances texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the bake while providing a protein boost.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slightly bitter notes of roasted Brussels sprouts balance well against the sweetness, making them a perfect sidekick.
• Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with almond slivers offer a delightful crunch and fresh taste that pairs beautifully with this dish.
• Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce adds acidity, cutting through the richness of the bake, creating a well-rounded meal experience.

Feel free to mix and match these serving suggestions to create a festive spread that will impress family and friends at your holiday gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is not only a delicious addition to your holiday table but also an excellent option for meal prep! You can easily whip it up in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to manage your leftovers or prepare it ahead of time.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the Butternut Squash Apple Bake completely.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe.

Can I make Butternut Squash Apple Bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish and store it in the fridge or freezer for later use. This makes it perfect for busy days or holiday gatherings!

What can I serve with Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

This versatile dish pairs well with roasted meats, salads, or even as a comforting side for a simple weeknight dinner. It complements various main courses beautifully!

Is there a substitute for brown sugar in Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

Yes! You can use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar as alternatives to brown sugar while still achieving that sweet richness.

How long does Butternut Squash Apple Bake last in the fridge?

When stored properly, this delicious bake will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Butternut Squash Apple Bake! It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with warm fall flavors that make any meal feel special. Whether you’re serving it during the holidays or enjoying it as a cozy weeknight treat, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to share your experiences with this delightful recipe!