Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Soup: A Cozy Fall Comfort Recipe

Fall is the perfect season to indulge in the comforting flavors of roasted butternut squash and apple soup. This creamy, slightly sweet, and savory soup combines the earthiness of roasted squash, the sweetness of apples, and the warmth of aromatic spices, making it the ideal dish for chilly days. Whether you’re preparing it as a starter for your Thanksgiving feast or simply craving a cozy meal to unwind, this roasted butternut squash and apple soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make this simple yet delicious soup from scratch, highlight some variations you can try, and provide tips for serving and storing it. The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a great addition to any autumn menu.

Why You Should Make Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Soup

Butternut squash is a fall staple that shines in both sweet and savory dishes. When paired with apples, it transforms into a comforting soup that’s perfect for cooler weather. Here are a few reasons why you should make this roasted butternut squash and apple soup:

1. Seasonal Ingredients: The combination of butternut squash and apples represents the flavors of fall. With their natural sweetness, they complement each other perfectly.
2. Healthy and Nourishing: This soup is packed with nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants from the squash and apples. It’s not only delicious but also great for your health.
3. Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and straightforward instructions, this soup is simple to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals.
4. Customizable: You can easily adjust the flavor by adding different herbs and spices, making it versatile and suited to your tastes.

Ingredients for Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Soup

To make this hearty butternut squash and apple soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 2 apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk or heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
• Toasted pumpkin seeds & fresh thyme for garnish

These ingredients come together to create a rich, velvety, and flavorful soup that’s both comforting and nourishing.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Soup

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into the simple process of making this roasted butternut squash and apple soup. The key to this soup’s rich flavor lies in the roasting of the squash and apples, which brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash and Apples

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash cubes and apple pieces with olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. The olive oil helps with roasting, while the spices create that signature fall flavor.
3. Spread the squash and apples evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until they are tender and lightly caramelized.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. While the squash and apples are roasting, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant. This step is crucial for developing the base flavor of the soup.

Step 3: Blend the Soup

1. Once the squash and apples are roasted to perfection, add them to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for about 5 minutes.
2. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Just be sure to let it cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering.

Step 4: Finish and Serve the Soup

1. Once the soup is blended, stir in the coconut milk (or heavy cream) for a rich, creamy texture. If you like a touch of sweetness, add maple syrup to taste.
2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.
3. Serve the soup warm, garnished with toasted pumpkin seeds and fresh thyme for an added touch of flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions for Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Soup

While this soup is delightful on its own, you can elevate the meal by pairing it with other dishes. Here are some ideas:

1. Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into this creamy soup. You can opt for sourdough, baguette, or ciabatta.
2. Salads: A simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. Try a spinach salad with walnuts and feta or a mixed greens salad with pomegranate seeds for extra seasonal flavor.
3. Roasted Vegetables: If you’re looking to make the meal more substantial, pair it with a side of roasted vegetables such as brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic grilled cheese sandwich is a comforting and tasty addition to this fall-inspired soup. The crispy, cheesy bread complements the smooth soup perfectly.

Variations of Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Soup

This butternut squash and apple soup recipe is highly customizable. Feel free to experiment with the following variations to make it your own:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a little heat. The sweetness of the squash and apples balances out the spiciness.
• Herb Variations: Try using other herbs such as rosemary or sage to infuse a different depth of flavor. Both herbs pair beautifully with the roasted squash.
• Vegan Option: Make the soup fully vegan by swapping coconut milk for heavy cream and ensuring your broth is vegetable-based.
• Add Protein: If you’re looking to make this soup a main course, you can add grilled chicken or turkey for a protein boost.

Nutritional Benefits of Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Soup

This soup is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Let’s take a look at some of the nutritional benefits of its key ingredients:

1. Butternut Squash: Rich in vitamin A and fiber, butternut squash supports healthy vision and digestion. It also contains antioxidants like beta-carotene, which helps protect against oxidative stress.
2. Apples: Apples provide fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, promoting heart health and supporting the immune system.
3. Coconut Milk: Using unsweetened coconut milk in the soup adds healthy fats that are good for heart health. It also contributes to the creamy texture without the need for dairy.
4. Garlic: Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and can help improve cardiovascular health.
5. Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener, maple syrup provides trace amounts of minerals like manganese and zinc, which are important for overall health.

Conclusion: Enjoying Your Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Soup

In conclusion, roasted butternut squash and apple soup is the ultimate comfort food for fall. The rich, creamy texture paired with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, making it for your family, or simply enjoying it on a cozy evening, this soup is guaranteed to impress. With its healthy ingredients and customizable flavors, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.

FAQs About Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Soup

1. Can I use other types of squash for this soup?

Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with other types of squash like acorn squash, kabocha squash, or pumpkin.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just reheat before serving.

3. Is there a dairy-free version of this soup?

Yes, you can make this soup dairy-free by using coconut milk or almond milk in place of cream and omitting any dairy-based toppings.

4. What can I use as a garnish for this soup?

In addition to toasted pumpkin seeds and fresh thyme, you can also try roasted pecans, crispy croutons, or a dollop of vegan sour cream.

5. How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

If the soup is too thin, you can cook it for longer to reduce the liquid, or add a little more roasted squash to achieve the desired thickness.

Enjoy making this roasted butternut squash and apple soup and let the flavors of fall fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort! 🍁

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