This baked butternut squash shines with a warm, sweet cinnamon butter on top. It’s cozy and perfect for chilly days when you need a hug on your plate!
Just imagine the smell of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen—it’s like fall is hugging you from the inside! I love serving this as a side or even as a light dessert. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: This is the star of the dish! It’s sweet and nutty when cooked. If you can’t find it, sweet potatoes or pumpkin can work as alternatives, though the flavor will change a bit.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the seasoning. If you’re vegan or dairy-free, try using coconut oil or a plant-based butter for similar richness.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both add sweetness, but you can swap maple syrup for agave nectar for a vegan option. If you prefer less sweet, reduce the amount used.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth. For variety, you might experiment with a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a unique twist.
How Do I Get the Butternut Squash Perfectly Cooked?
The key to getting that perfect tenderness is all about the baking time and temperature. Follow these tips for great results:
- Cube the squash uniformly to ensure even cooking. Keeping pieces around the same size helps them cook at the same rate.
- Toss the squash well in the butter mixture. Make sure the cubes are fully coated for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish! Spread the cubes evenly; this allows them to roast properly instead of steam.
- Turn the squash halfway through cooking to get that nice caramelization on all sides.
- Cook until you can easily pierce them with a fork—this is your cue that they’re perfectly tender!
Enjoy your baking adventure with this delightful dish!
Baked Butternut Squash With Cinnamon Butter
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 to 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional garnish: chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans), fresh thyme leaves, or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked butternut squash takes about 10 minutes of prep time, followed by 30 to 40 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll be spending around 50 minutes to 1 hour to make a cozy, sweet dish that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures that your butternut squash cooks evenly and develops a lovely caramelization.
2. Prepare the Butter Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the melted butter, maple syrup (or honey), ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients until they are well combined and creamy.
3. Coat the Squash:
Add the cubed butternut squash to the bowl with the butter mixture. Gently toss the squash cubes until they are fully coated with the tasty cinnamon butter mixture. Every piece should be glistening!
4. Arrange in Baking Dish:
Spread the coated squash cubes in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. Make sure not to overcrowd them, so they roast nicely instead of steaming.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 40 minutes. Remember to stir or flip the squash pieces halfway through cooking. You want them to be tender and lightly caramelized on the edges—deliciously golden!
6. Finish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and transfer the delicious squash to a serving platter. Feel free to sprinkle optional garnishes like chopped nuts, fresh thyme, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Serve warm and enjoy!
Your cozy and sweet cinnamon-kissed butternut squash is now ready to be enjoyed. Perfect as a side dish or a delightful treat any time of year!
Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen butternut squash completely before use. You can do this in the fridge overnight or quickly in a microwave. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly softer after baking.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet dish, feel free to reduce the amount of maple syrup or honey. You can start with one tablespoon, taste, and then add more if you like. Alternatively, you can skip the sweetener altogether and let the natural sweetness of the squash shine.
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can chop the butternut squash and prepare the butter mixture a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge to keep the squash fresh. When you’re ready to cook, toss them together and bake as directed!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. You might consider adding a bit more butter or a splash of maple syrup to refresh the flavor!
