Comforting Apple Butternut Squash Soup Recipe for Fall Nights

Crisp autumn winds whisper secrets of this delectable apple butternut squash soup that promises warmth and comfort.

Seasonal ingredients dance together in a harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Rich, velvety textures welcome you into a culinary embrace that feels like a cozy sweater for your taste buds.

Rustic notes of roasted squash mingle with subtle apple undertones, creating a symphony of delightful sensations.

Fresh herbs and a touch of cinnamon elevate this recipe from ordinary to extraordinary.

Creamy and smooth, each spoonful tells a story of harvest abundance and homemade goodness.

Feel inspired to gather your ingredients and craft this soul-warming masterpiece that celebrates the essence of fall.

FAQs On Apple Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

• Why roast the butternut squash before adding it to the soup?

Roasting caramelizes the squash, bringing out deeper, richer flavors and creating a more complex taste profile compared to simply boiling it in the broth.

• Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Just replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative to keep the soup creamy and delicious.

• What makes apples a great addition to this soup?

Apples add natural sweetness and a subtle tartness that perfectly balances the earthy flavor of butternut squash, creating a more nuanced and interesting soup.

• Is this soup nutritionally beneficial?

Yes! Butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making this soup not just tasty but also incredibly healthy and nourishing.

Why Apple Butternut Squash Soup Recipe Is Cozy And Comforting

• Effortless Winter Comfort: This soup transforms simple ingredients into a warming, cozy meal that hugs your soul on chilly days, making complex cooking techniques feel like a breeze.
• Speedy Seasonal Delight: From chopping to serving, you can whip up this recipe in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans with minimal kitchen stress.
• Nutrition-Packed Flavor Explosion: Packed with vitamin-rich butternut squash and sweet apples, this soup delivers a powerhouse of nutrients and complex flavors that will satisfy health-conscious food lovers while delighting taste buds.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you're hosting a dinner party, enjoying a quiet family meal, or looking for a make-ahead lunch option, this adaptable soup works beautifully for multiple occasions and dietary preferences.

Ingredients Needed For Apple Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

Main Ingredients:

Butternut Squash: A sweet, nutty vegetable that provides the soup’s creamy base and rich autumn flavor. Choose a firm squash with no soft spots or blemishes.

Apples: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor profile. Opt for crisp, slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.

Aromatics and Seasonings:

Onion, Garlic: Foundational flavor builders that create a savory depth. Fresh, firm onions with no sprouting are best.

Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger: Warm spices that enhance the soup’s cozy, autumnal character. Use freshly ground spices for maximum flavor.

Liquid and Finishing Ingredients:

Vegetable Broth: Creates the soup’s liquid base and adds extra depth. Low-sodium broths work well to control salt levels.

Heavy Cream, Coconut Milk: Adds richness and smooth texture. Choose full-fat versions for best results.

Olive Oil: Used for roasting squash and sautéing aromatics. Extra virgin olive oil provides the best flavor.

Garnish Ingredients:

Fresh Thyme, Pumpkin Seeds: Optional toppings that add texture and visual appeal. Use fresh herbs for the brightest flavor.

How To Make Apple Butternut Squash Soup Recipe Step-By-Step

Step 1: Roast the Squash

• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper

Spread the seasoned squash on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes until the edges turn golden and the squash becomes tender. The caramelization will add depth to the soup’s flavor.

Step 2: Prepare Aromatics

• Diced onions
• Minced garlic

Cook until the onions become translucent and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Soup Ingredients

• Chopped apples
• Vegetable broth
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground nutmeg
• Fresh ginger (optional)

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the apples soften completely.

Step 4: Create Silky Texture

• Heavy cream
• Coconut milk

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

• Fresh thyme leaves
• Toasted pumpkin seeds
• A gentle drizzle of cream

Pair with warm crusty bread or a crispy grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.

Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, consider roasting the apples alongside the butternut squash or adding a splash of apple cider to the broth.

Tips To Get The Texture Right In Apple Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

• Roast Squash to Perfection: Ensure even caramelization by cutting butternut squash into uniform 1-inch cubes and spacing them out on the baking sheet. This technique brings out deeper, sweeter flavors and creates a richer soup texture.
• Balance Aromatics Carefully: Sauté onions and garlic gently to prevent burning, which can introduce bitter notes. The slow, careful cooking develops a subtle, rich base for your soup.
• Blend for Silky Smoothness: Use an immersion blender for easier cleanup and more controlled consistency. If using a standard blender, work in small batches and remove the center lid cap to prevent steam pressure buildup.
• Customize Dietary Needs: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version or use vegetable broth to make the soup completely vegan-friendly. These substitutions maintain the soup's creamy, comforting profile.
• Enhance Texture and Flavor: Top the soup with toasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch, or swirl in extra cream for added richness. Experiment with garnishes like crispy sage leaves or a sprinkle of nutmeg to elevate the dish.

How To Store Apple Butternut Squash Soup Recipe With Ease

• Refrigerate leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Seal the container tightly to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of other refrigerator odors.
• Cool the soup completely before storing to prevent bacterial growth.
• When reheating, pour the soup into a pot and warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to restore its smooth consistency.
• Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can cause uneven heating and potentially change the soup's texture.
• Freeze extra portions in freezer-safe containers for maximum 3 months, leaving a small space at the top for expansion.
• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Pro tip: Separate the cream when freezing to prevent separation, and add it fresh when reheating for the best taste and texture.

Tasty Pairings For Apple Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

• Elevate with Crusty Bread Companion: Pair this creamy apple butternut squash soup with a warm, rustic sourdough or French baguette, perfectly toasted and brushed with garlic-infused olive oil for a delightful textural contrast.
• Craft a Cheese-Lover's Dream: Serve alongside a golden, crispy grilled cheese sandwich made with sharp cheddar or gruyère, which complements the soup's sweet and savory notes while adding a rich, melty dimension.
• Match with Crisp White Wine: Select a medium-bodied Viognier or Gewürztraminer that echoes the soup's subtle sweetness and spice, enhancing the aromatic profile of cinnamon and nutmeg with its own delicate fruit undertones.
• Embrace Autumn Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a warm apple cider or spiced chai tea, which mirrors the soup's cozy fall flavors and provides a comforting, warming experience that celebrates seasonal ingredients.

Apple Butternut Squash Soup Recipe Variations You Should Try

• Harvest Gold Soup: Replace butternut squash with golden acorn squash, adding a subtle nuttier flavor and maintaining the recipe's creamy texture. Incorporate roasted pears instead of apples for a softer, more mellow sweetness.
• Spicy Autumn Blend: Kick up the heat by adding diced jalapeños during sautéing and introducing a pinch of cayenne pepper. Garnish with crispy chorizo bits for an extra layer of warmth and complexity.
• Vegan Comfort Bowl: Swap heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use vegetable broth. Top with toasted pumpkin seeds, crispy sage leaves, and a drizzle of maple syrup for a plant-based version that doesn't compromise on richness.
• Mediterranean Fusion: Include roasted red peppers and a touch of smoked paprika. Finish with crumbled feta cheese and a sprinkle of za'atar spice blend to transport the soup's flavor profile to the Mediterranean coast.

Apple Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

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4.6 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy “Apple Butternut Squash Soup” blends autumn’s richest flavors with warming spices from seasonal ingredients. Comfort flows through each spoonful, inviting you to savor hearty comfort perfect for chilly evenings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Vegetables:

• 1 (about 3 pounds / 1.36 kilograms) butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 2 apples (Honeycrisp or Gala), peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquid and Cream:

• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version)

Spices and Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh thyme or rosemary
• Pumpkin seeds

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Instructions

1. Prepare the butternut squash for roasting by preheating the oven to 400F (200C). Toss cubed squash with olive oil, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring even spacing for optimal caramelization.
2. While squash roasts, create a flavor base in a large pot by heating olive oil over medium heat. Gently sauté onions until translucent and soft, then introduce minced garlic, allowing its aromatic essence to bloom briefly.
3. Combine the roasted squash with diced apples, vegetable broth, and warm spices including cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Allow the mixture to reach a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer, allowing the ingredients to meld and soften completely.
4. Transform the soup’s texture using an immersion blender to create a silky, smooth consistency. For an extra luxurious finish, incorporate heavy cream or coconut milk, stirring carefully to integrate.
5. Fine-tune the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting to achieve a balanced flavor profile. Pour the velvety soup into serving bowls, elevating the presentation with a sprinkle of fresh thyme, crunchy pumpkin seeds, or a delicate cream drizzle.
6. Complement the soup with a side of crusty artisan bread or a golden, melty grilled cheese sandwich for a complete and comforting meal experience.

Notes

• Roast squash thoroughly to enhance its natural sweetness and develop deeper caramelized flavors, which elevates the soup’s overall taste profile.
• Select ripe, sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Gala for a balanced and complex flavor that complements the butternut squash beautifully.
• Swap heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version that maintains a rich, creamy texture while adding a subtle tropical undertone.
• Experiment with spice levels by adjusting cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to create a personalized warming sensation that suits individual taste preferences.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg