This baked butternut squash is a warm and sweet treat! The soft squash pairs perfectly with a yummy cinnamon butter that adds a delicious twist. It’s really easy to make!
Honestly, the cinnamon butter is the star here. I could spread it on everything! 😄 Enjoy this as a side dish, or just savor it on its own—it’s that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: A must-have ingredient! If you can’t find it, sweet potatoes or pumpkin can work too. They bring a similar sweetness and texture that complements the dish.
Unsalted Butter: I love using unsalted butter to control the seasoning. You can substitute coconut oil or a dairy-free butter if you’re avoiding dairy. Both give a nice richness.
Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar offers a deeper flavor, but light brown sugar is fine too. You could also use maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener—just adjust the butter amount accordingly.
Ground Cinnamon: A key flavor in this dish! If you love spice, try adding some nutmeg or ginger powder to enhance the warmth of the dish.
How Do I Get the Squash to Cook Perfectly?
Getting the squash to the right texture requires a bit of prep and attention. Here’s the trick:
- Start by cutting the squash into even 1-inch cubes. This ensures they cook uniformly.
- Be generous with the butter mixture. The coating helps with caramelization, creating that lovely sweet crust.
- Don’t skip turning the squash halfway through baking. This helps them brown evenly on all sides.
- Check for doneness by piercing with a fork; they should be tender but not mushy!
Baked Butternut Squash With Cinnamon Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large butternut squash (about 2 to 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus an extra pat for serving)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional: a pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the squash and get everything mixed up. After that, let it bake for 25 to 35 minutes. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes, and most of that is just waiting while the squash bakes to golden perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature for roasting the squash and letting those flavors develop.
2. Mix Up the Cinnamon Butter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, black pepper, and any optional spices you choose to use. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined and the sugar is dissolved. It should smell delightful!
3. Coat the Squash:
Add the butternut squash cubes into the bowl with the cinnamon butter mixture. Gently toss everything together until the squash is evenly coated in that luscious mixture. Make sure every piece is covered, as this will add the delicious sweetness.
4. Spread on Baking Sheet:
Now, spread the coated squash cubes in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet or in the baking dish. Don’t overcrowd them; you want them to roast, not steam!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and let the squash bake for 25 to 35 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, give the squash a turn to help them cook evenly. They’re done when they are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the squash is out of the oven, transfer it to a serving bowl. Add that extra pat of butter on top while it’s still warm so it can melt over the squash. Now you’re ready to serve this scrumptious side dish warm. Enjoy!
This dish features tender, sweet roasted butternut squash pieces infused with warm cinnamon and brown sugar flavors, all enhanced by buttery richness. Perfect for fall or holiday meals!
Can I Use Another Type of Squash?
Absolutely! While butternut squash is delicious, you can also use acorn squash or sweet potatoes for a similar sweet and savory flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time if necessary, as different squashes may require varying bake times.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving again to restore that creamy butteriness!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil, and use maple syrup instead of brown sugar to keep the flavor while making it entirely vegan!
What Can I Serve With Baked Butternut Squash?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, like chicken or turkey, or can be served alongside grains like quinoa or rice to create a well-rounded meal. Enjoy with a fresh salad for a delightful combination!
