Butternut Squash Bread is a warm, spicy, and comforting treat that’s perfect for any time of year. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash with fragrant spices and a moist, tender crumb, making it a delightful addition to your breakfast table or an afternoon snack. The golden color and rich flavor make it not only a feast for the taste buds but also a beautiful centerpiece for your fall gatherings.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Readers will love this butternut squash bread recipe because it’s incredibly flavorful, easy to make, and healthy. The sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a deliciously aromatic loaf that fills your kitchen with inviting scents. This recipe fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle, offering fiber and vitamins from the squash while also being versatile enough to adjust for different dietary needs. Plus, it’s simple enough for beginners, yet satisfying enough for seasoned bakers.
Tips and Tricks
- Roasting the Squash: Take the time to roast your butternut squash instead of boiling it. Roasting enhances the flavor and caramelizes the natural sugars, giving your bread a richer taste.
- Fresh Spices: Use freshly ground spices for a more vibrant flavor. If possible, grate your nutmeg and cinnamon to get the most aromatic and flavorful results.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter that rises well.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together to avoid a dense loaf. Overmixing can lead to tough bread.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the butternut squash in advance. Roast it a day ahead, store it in the refrigerator, and simply mash it when you’re ready to bake. The bread itself can also be made ahead of time; it stays fresh for about three days at room temperature or can be frozen for up to three months. If freezing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Recipe Variations
- Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Spice it Up: Add a teaspoon of ginger or allspice for a more complex flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Delight: Fold in chocolate chips for a sweeter treat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with gluten sensitivities.
How to Serve
Serve your butternut squash bread warm, sliced, and spread with a little butter or cream cheese. It’s also delicious toasted with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. For a lovely presentation, serve it on a rustic wooden cutting board with a small dish of butter on the side. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few pumpkin seeds for added texture.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your butternut squash bread with a nice cup of spiced chai tea or a sweet dessert wine like a late-harvest Riesling. For a cozy autumnal meal, serve it alongside a hearty soup or salad featuring roasted vegetables. A slice of this bread also goes deliciously well with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast.
How to Store
Store any leftover butternut squash bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven or toaster.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A baking pan (9×5-inch is ideal)
- A whisk and spatula
- A food processor or fork for mashing the squash
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use a dairy-free butter substitute. For a nut-free version, simply omit nuts or use seeds instead. Ensure that any baking powder used is gluten-free for those with allergies.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, incorporate fresh spices like sage or rosemary into the batter for a seasonal twist. In spring, you might consider adding hints of lemon zest to brighten the flavor and complement the butternut squash.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use canned butternut squash? Yes, but be sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture in your batter.
- How long should I bake? Bake for 50-60 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center.
- Can I substitute brown sugar for white sugar? Absolutely! Brown sugar adds a rich flavor and moisture.
How To Make butternut squash bread recipe
Butternut Squash Bread
Butternut Squash Bread is a warm, spicy, and comforting treat that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mashed roasted butternut squash
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the mashed butternut squash until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Information
Yield
1Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 2942Total Fat 123gSaturated Fat 64gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 52gCholesterol 616mgSodium 2674mgCarbohydrates 426gFiber 20gSugar 198gProtein 43g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making butternut squash bread is not just about baking; it’s about creating a moment of comfort and joy. Whether enjoyed warm out of the oven or toasted the next day, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your home. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or savoring quietly with a cup of tea. Happy baking!
