Description
This Delicious Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake combines tender roasted butternut squash with sweet and tart apples, enhanced by warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Topped with a buttery, nutty crumble, this comforting dish is perfect as a side or a cozy dessert during the fall season.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 Butternut Squash
- 2-3 Apples (mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg
- Pinch of Salt
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup Walnuts or Pecans, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the dish.
- Prepare the Squash: Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the Apples: Core and slice the apples into wedges or cubes, mixing tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp for balanced flavor.
- Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash and apple pieces. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Toss well to evenly coat the fruit and squash with spices and sweetness.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Pour the squash and apple mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare Nut Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the chopped walnuts or pecans with melted butter and a sprinkle of brown sugar. Toss until the nuts are well coated, then evenly sprinkle this mixture over the squash and apple layer.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 25 minutes. This step helps the squash and apples soften gently.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the nut topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and to avoid burns.
Notes
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans depending on preference or availability.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar to suit your taste.
- For extra texture, consider adding a sprinkle of oats in the nut topping mixture.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or as a vegetarian side.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
