Butternut Squash Apple Bake

If you’re looking for the perfect dish to add warmth and joy to your holiday table, then Butternut Squash Apple Bake is just what you need! This recipe brings together the sweet flavors of butternut squash and apples, creating a comforting side that everyone will adore. It’s not only a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving feast but also an easy option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The beautiful combination of fall flavors makes this dish special, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious bake in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids love the sweetness of apples and raisins, making it a great choice for all ages.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep this dish in advance, giving you more time to enjoy with family and friends.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of cinnamon, vanilla, and nuts elevates this dish into something truly special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you need for this cozy dish!

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

One of the best things about Butternut Squash Apple Bake is its flexibility! Here are some fun ideas to customize it according to your taste:

• Add More Fruits: Toss in some chopped pears or figs for extra sweetness and texture.
• Try Different Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version!
• Season with Spice: Experiment by adding nutmeg or ginger alongside cinnamon for a spicier flavor profile.
• Make it Creamy: Consider stirring in a dollop of coconut cream after baking for added richness.

How to Make Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees. This ensures that your dish cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden brown finish.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the butternut squash, apples, cinnamon, vanilla, and brown sugar. Mixing these together brings out their natural sweetness and creates a wonderful aroma. Make sure everything is well combined!

Step 3: Season It Up

Add the salt and black pepper to your mixture. These seasonings enhance the flavors of the fruits and squash without overpowering them. Give it another good mix!

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Pour the butternut squash mixture into a baking dish with a lid. Spreading it evenly ensures that every bite will be perfectly cooked.

Step 5: Add Butter and Start Baking

Place chopped butter throughout the mixture before covering it up. Baking covered for 15 minutes allows everything to steam beautifully until it’s tender.

Step 6: Add Dried Fruits and Nuts

After the first baking period, toss in those delicious raisins, cranberries, and pecans. This adds texture and taste—plus they get all warm and soft! Cover again and bake for another 15 minutes until everything is tender.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Once done, remove from the oven and give it a gentle stir. Serving it warm brings out its comforting flavors—perfect as a side at any meal!

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is not just food; it’s an invitation to gather around the table with loved ones. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Making the perfect Butternut Squash Apple Bake is a breeze with these handy tips!

• Choose ripe apples: Opting for ripe, sweet apples enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a delightful sweetness that balances the earthiness of the butternut squash.

• Uniformly cut ingredients: Cutting your butternut squash and apples into evenly sized pieces ensures they cook at the same rate, resulting in a perfectly tender dish.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is a classic choice, feel free to add nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth and complexity that evokes the comforting essence of fall.

• Use a mix of nuts: Mixing pecans and walnuts not only adds texture but also infuses the bake with different flavors, making every bite exciting.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing your dish to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste experience when served.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Presenting your Butternut Squash Apple Bake can make it even more inviting. Here are some ideas to consider:

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary on top adds a pop of color and a fragrant aroma that elevates the dish.
• Coconut whipped cream: A dollop of this creamy topping can turn your bake into a delightful dessert option, adding a hint of sweetness and creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: This refreshing salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and lemon dressing provides a light contrast to the warm bake and is packed with protein.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crispy, caramelized edges of roasted Brussels sprouts complement the sweetness of the bake beautifully while adding another layer of flavor.

• Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds offer a crunchy texture that pairs nicely with the soft butternut squash and apples.

• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, avocado, and vinaigrette brings brightness to your meal and balances out the richness of the bake.

Enjoy your delicious Butternut Squash Apple Bake as part of your holiday feast or any cozy dinner gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, making your holiday cooking a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the Butternut Squash Apple Bake cool completely.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions until hot.

FAQs

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

Can I use different types of apples in Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

Absolutely! While gala apples work wonderfully, you can use any sweet apple variety you prefer, such as Fuji or Honeycrisp. Just be sure they are firm so they hold up well during baking!

How do I know when the Butternut Squash Apple Bake is done?

The bake is ready when the butternut squash is tender and lightly browned. You can check its tenderness by piercing it with a fork; it should slide in easily.

Can I add other fruits or nuts to my Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

Of course! Feel free to experiment by adding other dried fruits like apricots or additional nuts like almonds. This dish is versatile, so customize it to your taste!

Final Thoughts

This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is truly a delightful addition to any meal. With its warm flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to try it out and share it with your loved ones—they’re going to love it!