Irresistible Butternut Squash Bread Recipe to Savor

Butternut squash bread is like a warm hug in loaf form, enveloping you with its sweet, nutty aroma and soft, moist texture. Imagine the first bite, where the flavors dance on your taste buds like a joyous celebration. This delight not only warms your kitchen but also fills your heart with sweet nostalgia, reminding you of crisp autumn days and family gatherings.

As the smell of cinnamon and nutmeg wafts through your home, you can’t help but feel excited about this delightful creation. It’s perfect for those cozy mornings or as a comforting treat when friends drop by unannounced. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

I remember one Thanksgiving when my cousin brought this butternut squash bread to dinner, and it disappeared faster than I could say “pass the gravy.” The entire family was raving about it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Butternut Squash: Choose a firm squash; its natural sweetness enhances the bread’s flavor beautifully.

• All-Purpose Flour: Use unbleached flour for better structure and texture in your bread.

• Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar adds moisture and depth of flavor; both work well.

• Cinnamon: Use fresh ground cinnamon for the best flavor; it brings warmth to every bite.

• Nuts (optional): Walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch; toast them lightly for more flavor.

• Eggs: Fresh eggs provide moisture and help bind everything together; choose large eggs for best results.

• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents ensure your bread rises perfectly; check expiration dates for best results.

• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates the flavors; avoid imitation for a more authentic taste.

• Salt: A pinch of salt balances sweetness; don’t skip this essential ingredient!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Butternut Squash Bread

Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.

Cook the Butternut Squash: Peel and cube about 2 cups of fresh butternut squash. Steam or roast until tender (about 20 minutes), then mash it into a smooth puree.

Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined. This step ensures even flavor distribution throughout the loaf.

Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat together eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and the mashed butternut squash until smooth. This mixture should be creamy and slightly fluffy.

Add Dry to Wet Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be gentle here; over-mixing can lead to dense bread instead of fluffy goodness.

Pour into Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake in preheated oven for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Enjoy that heavenly aroma filling your kitchen!

With these simple steps completed, you now have a delicious loaf of butternut squash bread that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it! Enjoy with butter or cream cheese spread on top for an extra treat.

Content

Tip: Use ripe butternut squash for the best flavor and texture. Ripe squash gives your bread a naturally sweet taste that will make everyone smile. I learned this after making a few bland loaves—never again!

Tip: Don’t skip the spices! Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger elevate the flavors beautifully. The first time I added these spices, my family couldn’t stop raving about it.

Tip: Let the bread cool completely before slicing. This helps maintain its moisture and prevents squishing. Trust me, I’ve made the mistake of slicing too early—messy results!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the butternut squash to enhance its natural sweetness. While it cools, mix your dry ingredients. This sequence ensures every bite is flavorful and moist.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for a fun twist! You can also swap out some flour for whole wheat to make it even heartier.

Storing & Reheating

Store your butternut squash bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices in plastic wrap and reheat them in the toaster.

I still remember the first time I baked butternut squash bread; my kitchen smelled like fall and family gathered around to enjoy it together.

FAQ

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Yes, frozen squash works well; just thaw and drain excess moisture before using.

How do I know when the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when ready.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute eggs with applesauce or flaxseed meal for a vegan version.

Print

Butternut Squash Bread

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Butternut squash bread is a delightful seasonal treat that combines the warm flavors of autumn with a moist, tender crumb. This easy-to-make loaf is perfect for cozy mornings or as a comforting dessert. Bursting with sweet butternut squash and fragrant spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s sure to become a favorite at family gatherings and casual get-togethers. Whether enjoyed plain, toasted, or slathered with butter, this bread evokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth with every bite.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 65 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups mashed butternut squash (about 1 medium squash)
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Peel, cube, and steam or roast the butternut squash until tender; then mash into a smooth puree.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
4. In another bowl, beat the eggs, brown sugar, oil, and mashed squash until smooth.
5. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently to combine without overmixing.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: For enhanced sweetness, use ripe butternut squash. Add chocolate chips for an indulgent twist or substitute applesauce for eggs in a vegan version. Let the bread cool completely before slicing to maintain moisture.