Baked Butternut Squash With Cinnamon Butter

Category: Salads & Side dishes

Golden baked butternut squash topped with cinnamon butter, served as a delicious and comforting autumn side dish

This baked butternut squash is a cozy dish that warms your heart! Roasted until tender, it’s then topped with sweet cinnamon butter for a delightful finish.

Honestly, who doesn’t love a cozy squash moment? I could eat this every fall! Pair it with a side of nutty rice for a delicious meal that feels like a hug!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Butternut Squash: This is the star of the dish! Look for squash that’s heavy for its size, with smooth skin. If butternut is hard to find, you can use acorn squash or sweet potatoes as a substitute.

Unsalted Butter: I prefer unsalted butter to control the salt in the dish. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil works well too, adding a light flavor that pairs nicely.

Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is essential for that warm flavor. If you want to switch it up, try nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for something a little different!

Sweetener: Brown sugar adds depth, but you can use maple syrup for a more natural option. Honey or agave syrup are great alternatives, just adjust the amount for sweetness.

Pumpkin Seeds: These add a tasty crunch on top! If you’re not a fan, consider using chopped pecans or walnuts instead.

How Do I Make Sure the Squash is Tender and Delicious?

The key to perfect baked butternut squash lies in preparation and roasting. To ensure tenderness every time, follow these steps:

  • Slice the squash evenly to promote even cooking.
  • Don’t forget to scoop out all the seeds and stringy bits for a clean cup to work with.
  • Drizzle olive oil generously, as this helps with caramelization.
  • Check for doneness by inserting a fork; it should go in smoothly without any resistance.
  • Roast in the middle of your oven for even heat distribution, and rotate the pan halfway through if needed.

Enjoy the warm, cozy flavors as they fill your kitchen while baking!

Baked Butternut Squash With Cinnamon Butter

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 1 large butternut squash, halved and seeded
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (pepitas), for topping

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes for prepping, followed by 45-55 minutes for roasting. In total, you’ll need around 1 hour to 1 hour and 5 minutes to serve this warm, comforting dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure the squash roasts evenly and gets nice and tender.

2. Prepare the Squash:

Carefully slice the butternut squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and any stringy bits inside. Make sure to get a clean surface to work with!

3. Make the Cinnamon Butter:

In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter with ground cinnamon and brown sugar (or maple syrup). Mix until smooth and well combined. This delightful mixture will enhance the squash’s natural sweetness!

4. Season the Squash:

Place your squash halves cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over each half, and sprinkle them with salt and black pepper.

5. Spread the Cinnamon Butter:

Using a spatula or a spoon, generously spread the cinnamon butter mixture over the flesh of each squash half. Make sure to cover it well for that tasty flavor!

6. Add the Crunch:

Sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top of the squash halves for a lovely crunch and an extra layer of flavor.

7. Roast Until Tender:

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 45-55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a fork; it should slide in easily when the squash is done.

8. Cool and Serve:

Once roasted, remove the squash from the oven and let it cool slightly. If you like, add a small extra pat of the cinnamon butter on top while it’s still warm to make it even more delicious.

9. Enjoy!

Serve the baked butternut squash warm, either as a delightful side dish or as a simple vegetarian main meal. Enjoy every cozy bite!

This recipe delivers a tender, sweet, and warmly spiced baked butternut squash, accentuated by the richness of cinnamon butter and the delightful crunch of roasted pumpkin seeds.

Baked Butternut Squash With Cinnamon Butter

Can I Use a Different Type of Squash?

Absolutely! If butternut squash isn’t available, feel free to use acorn squash or even sweet potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, as some squashes may need less or more time to become tender.

What Can I Substitute for the Cinnamon Butter?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use olive oil mixed with a bit of maple syrup and cinnamon instead. For a non-dairy alternative, consider using coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute mixed with similar spices.

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

You can prepare the squash and apply the cinnamon butter mixture ahead of time, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just pop it into the oven from the fridge and adjust the baking time as necessary since it may take a couple of extra minutes to cook through.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might want to add a little extra butter or olive oil to keep it moist!

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment