This baked butternut squash shines with a sweet, buttery topping of cinnamon. It’s a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days or holiday feasts!
I love how easy it is to prepare! Just cut the squash, bake it, and drizzle that delicious cinnamon butter over the top. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: This sweet and nutty vegetable is the star of the dish. If you can’t find butternut squash, you can use acorn squash or pumpkin as a substitute, but they may give a slightly different taste.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for this recipe since it allows you to control the salt level. If you’re aiming for dairy-free, consider using coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Both work well in adding richness!
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives a nice caramel flavor, but if you want a lower sugar option, try using honey or even agave syrup. Remember to adjust the quantity as honey is sweeter than sugar.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Ensure the Butternut Squash is Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting butternut squash takes a bit of technique for the best texture. Here are some key steps to follow:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) so the squash roasts evenly from the start.
- Cut the squash into uniform 1-inch cubes. This helps them cook at the same rate, avoiding some being undercooked while others are overcooked.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet! Space out the squash cubes to allow for better caramelization and even cooking.
- Remember to flip the squash halfway through roasting. This lets all sides get that lovely golden brown color.
Following these steps will help you achieve perfectly roasted butternut squash that’s tender and flavorful!
Baked Butternut Squash With Cinnamon Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2-3 pounds), peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional garnish: fresh thyme or parsley, and a pinch of powdered sugar or flaky sea salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish! It’s a quick and easy addition to any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). It’s important to get it nice and hot so the squash can roast perfectly!
2. Prepare the Butternut Squash:
Next, peel the butternut squash, slice it in half, and scoop out the seeds. Cut the squash into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures that they cook evenly.
3. Mix the Cinnamon Butter:
In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar (or maple syrup), ground cinnamon, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir it until everything is well combined and smooth.
4. Coat the Squash:
Add the cubed butternut squash into the bowl and toss well to coat all the pieces in the cinnamon butter mixture. Make sure each piece gets a good amount of that sweet sauce!
5. Arrange and Bake:
Spread the coated squash cubes onto a lined or greased baking sheet in a single layer. This will help them roast nicely without steaming. Pop them in the oven!
6. Watch Them Roast:
Bake the squash in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Flip the cubes halfway through to ensure they roast evenly and get golden brown on all sides.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re tender and caramelized, take the squash out of the oven. Transfer the warm pieces to a serving dish and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. For a little extra sweetness, sprinkle with powdered sugar or flaky sea salt if you like.
8. Enjoy!
Serve this delightful baked butternut squash warm as a comforting side dish. Enjoy the cozy flavors!
Can I Use Other Squash Varieties for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While butternut squash is the best choice for its sweetness and texture, acorn squash or pumpkin can work as substitutes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly with different varieties.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can! To prepare ahead of time, simply cut the squash and mix it with the cinnamon butter, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just bring it to room temperature before baking, and you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Butternut Squash?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Can I Add Other Spices to the Recipe?
Definitely! You can enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or even a dash of vanilla extract to the cinnamon butter mixture. Feel free to experiment with flavors based on your preference!
