Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake

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A cozy bowl of Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake is like wrapping yourself in your favorite blanket on a chilly fall evening. It combines tender chunks of roasted butternut squash and sweet apples with a blend of cinnamon, maple, pecans, and cranberries for a flavor profile that screams comfort food with a healthy twist. It looks rustic, smells like a fall candle, and tastes like a holiday side dish that could steal the show.

Whether you’re prepping for a Thanksgiving table or just want to enjoy a seasonal veggie-forward dish, this bake is a must-try. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or works on its own as a nourishing plant-based side. Bonus: the leftovers are even better the next day, slightly caramelized and warm.

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What Kind of Apples Should I Use for Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake?

For this dish, go for firm and slightly tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith. These varieties hold up well during baking and balance out the natural sweetness of the squash and dried fruit. Softer apples like Red Delicious tend to get mushy and don’t deliver that pleasant bite this recipe benefits from.

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Ingredients for the Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Butternut Squash: The star of the dish! Its natural sweetness and soft texture after roasting make it a perfect base.

Apples: Choose firm, slightly tart apples to add a crisp, fruity contrast to the squash.

Pecans: Add a toasty, nutty crunch that complements the softness of the baked fruit and squash.

Dried Cranberries: Bring in a chewy, tart bite that rounds out the flavor profile with a festive touch.

Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that brings warmth and depth to the bake.

Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These spices are the heart of the cozy flavor. Don’t skip them!

Butter or Coconut Oil: A little fat helps roast everything beautifully and adds a luscious texture.

Salt: Just a pinch helps balance the sweetness and bring out the flavors.

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How To Make the Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Peel and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized chunks. Core and dice your apples, leaving the skin on for extra texture and fiber. Roughly chop the pecans and gather the rest of your ingredients so everything’s ready to mix.

Step 2: Combine in a Large Bowl

In a large mixing bowl, combine the squash, apples, cranberries, and pecans. Drizzle in the melted butter (or coconut oil) and maple syrup. Sprinkle over the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss everything together until evenly coated.

Step 3: Bake Until Tender

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the squash is fork-tender and the apples are soft but not mushy.

Step 4: Optional Finishing Touch

For a caramelized top, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching closely so it doesn’t burn. This step gives it that irresistible golden finish.

Step 5: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let the dish sit for 5-10 minutes out of the oven to settle before serving. This makes it easier to scoop and enhances the flavors.

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Serving and Storing Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake

This dish is best served warm, straight from the oven as a vibrant side dish. It pairs beautifully with roast chicken, turkey, or even a pork tenderloin. For a vegetarian meal, serve it over quinoa or farro with a drizzle of tahini or balsamic glaze.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. It also freezes well—just thaw overnight and warm through before enjoying.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I peel and cube butternut squash easily?

Microwave the whole squash for 2-3 minutes to soften the skin, then peel with a vegetable peeler and cube with a sharp knife.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all ingredients a day ahead and store in the fridge. When ready to bake, mix everything together and follow the baking instructions.

What can I use instead of pecans?

Walnuts or slivered almonds are great substitutes. If you have a nut allergy, try pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use frozen butternut squash?

You can. Just be sure to thaw and pat it dry to avoid extra moisture, which can make the bake soggy.

How sweet is this dish?

It has a naturally sweet profile from the apples, squash, maple syrup, and cranberries, but it’s not dessert-level sweet. You can always reduce or increase the maple syrup to your taste.

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Want More Fall Side Dish Ideas?

If you love this Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake, check out these comforting seasonal favorites:

• Honey Butter Skillet Corn for a quick and creamy corn side.
• Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions when you want melt-in-your-mouth cheesy goodness.
• Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes and Veggies for a hearty, colorful tray bake.
• Crack Green Beans if you crave a sweet-and-savory vegetable side with bacon.
• Funeral Potatoes for the ultimate cheesy potato comfort.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest fall recipe board so it’s always a scroll away when the craving hits.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use coconut oil or go with butter? Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze? I love seeing how you all put your own spin on these dishes.

Looking for more easy, wholesome comfort recipes? Come hang out on my Pinterest @lifewithninarecipes where I share seasonal favorites daily!

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