This baked butternut squash is a real treat! Roasted until soft and sweet, it’s perfectly topped with a buttery cinnamon mix that adds warmth and flavor.
Honestly, the smell of this squash baking fills the kitchen with cozy vibes. I love serving it beside roasted chicken for a comforting meal. So good, you’ll be going back for seconds! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: This is the star of the dish! It’s naturally sweet and creamy. If you can’t find it, try acorn squash or sweet potatoes for a similar texture and flavor.
Unsalted Butter: This adds richness to the squash. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or vegan butter works great too! Just keep an eye on the flavors they bring.
Brown Sugar/Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners enhance the natural sweetness of the squash. If you’re trying to cut sugar, honey or agave can be good alternatives, but remember to adjust the amount to your taste.
Ground Cinnamon: This gives the dish its cozy vibes. You could experiment with pumpkin pie spice for a different flavor, including nutmeg and ginger.
Pumpkin Seeds: These are optional but add a nice crunch. You could also use walnuts or pecans for a nutty flavor and additional texture.
How Do I Roast Butternut Squash Perfectly?
Roasting butternut squash can feel tricky, but getting it just right is all about preparation and timing. Here’s how you can make it work:
- First, make sure to cut the squash into even chunks. This helps ensure even cooking.
- Preheat the oven! A hot oven helps the squash caramelize and get that nice brown color.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! Give each piece space on the baking sheet. If they’re too close together, they can steam rather than roast.
- Remember to flip the squash halfway through. This helps it cook evenly and get that beautiful caramelized exterior.
With these tips, you’re set for squash success! Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors this dish brings to your table. 🥰
Baked Butternut Squash With Cinnamon Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1.5-inch chunks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- Optional: 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (pepitas) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 30-40 minutes to bake. Including preheating the oven, you’ll have everything ready to serve in about 50 minutes. It’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your butternut squash roast evenly. While it’s heating, you can prepare the squash!
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Butter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar or maple syrup, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well blended to create a delicious cinnamon butter mixture.
3. Coat the Squash:
Add the chopped butternut squash into the bowl with the cinnamon butter. Toss everything together until each piece is beautifully coated with the mixture. This adds lots of flavor!
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Spread the coated squash onto a lined baking sheet or greased baking dish, ensuring they’re in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to help them roast evenly and get nice and tender.
5. Roast the Squash:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the squash for 30-40 minutes. Don’t forget to give them a good turn halfway through. You want them soft and caramelized around the edges!
6. Toast the Pumpkin Seeds (Optional):
If you’re using pumpkin seeds, toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until they start popping. This adds a nice crunch as a garnish!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the squash is perfectly roasted, sprinkle the toasted pumpkin seeds on top before serving. Enjoy the warm, sweet, and slightly spiced flavor of this cozy dish, either as a delightful side or a satisfying snack!
Happy eating! 🧡
Can I Use a Different Type of Squash?
Absolutely! If butternut squash isn’t available, you can use acorn squash or even sweet potatoes. They will provide a similar sweetness and texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave until hot.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and replace the brown sugar with maple syrup or agave for a fully vegan dish!
What Can I Serve This With?
This baked butternut squash pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grain bowls, or even as a topping for salads. It’s a versatile dish that adds a nice sweetness to any meal!
