Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake Recipe
This Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake is a comforting and flavorful fall side dish featuring tender butternut squash and sweet gala apples infused with warm cinnamon, vanilla, and a hint of brown sugar. Enhanced with golden raisins, dried cranberries, and crunchy nuts, this baked medley offers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, ideal for cozy dinners or holiday meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lb butternut squash, peeled and cubed (about 2 cups)
- 2 gala apples, peeled, cored, and diced
Spices and Sweeteners
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Add-ins
- 1/4 cup golden raisins
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Other Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter, cut in pieces
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready for baking the butternut squash and apple mixture.
- Combine Squash, Apples, and Flavorings: In a large bowl, mix the cubed butternut squash and diced gala apples with ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and brown sugar or honey. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Then add salt and black pepper, mixing again to distribute the seasoning.
- Assemble and Begin Baking: Transfer the seasoned squash and apple mixture into a lidded baking dish, spreading it evenly. Dot the top with pieces of butter. Cover with the lid and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Add Dried Fruits and Nuts: Remove the baking dish from the oven after 15 minutes. Uncover and add golden raisins, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans or walnuts. Gently toss to combine. Optionally sprinkle a little more cinnamon for extra flavor. Cover again and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the squash is tender and the top lightly browned.
- Stir and Serve: Carefully take the dish out of the oven. Stir gently to evenly distribute the melted butter and juices. Serve warm directly from the baking dish for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts for pecans or vice versa based on preference or availability.
- Using honey instead of brown sugar adds a natural sweetness and slight floral note.
- For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts and increase dried fruit if desired.
- Make sure to peel the butternut squash thoroughly for a smooth texture.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or can be served as a vegetarian main with a side salad.
Keywords: butternut squash bake, autumn side dish, apple and squash recipe, fall vegetables, baked squash recipe, holiday side dish
Find it online: https://topreci.com/autumn-butternut-squash-apple-bake-recipe/
