Butter Squash And Apples
A comforting dish of tender roasted butternut squash layered with sweet apples, coated in a brown sugar and spice glaze, perfect for cozy family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut each squash in half lengthwise and remove seeds.
- Cut squash into half-inch slices and peel.
- Layer squash slices in a lightly greased 12-inch round glass dish.
- Top with peeled, cored, and sliced apples.
- Mix brown sugar, melted margarine, flour, salt, cinnamon, and ground mace, then spoon over squash and apples.
- Seal the dish with foil.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 1 hour or until the squash is tender.
- Remove foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using maple syrup instead of brown sugar, and if you prefer a creamier texture, a splash of heavy cream can be added. If butternut squash isn't available, acorn squash works well too. Make sure the apples are tart, like Granny Smith, to balance the sweetness of the sugar.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is a perfect side for roasted meats or can be served as a vegetarian main course. Pair it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. For dessert, consider serving with a slice of Mom's Easy Lemon Cake for a delightful finish.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butter Squash And Apples contains roughly 256 calories, with 3g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (67% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and then bake as instructed.
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal as they provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the squash. Avoid mealy varieties like Red Delicious, as they may not hold their shape during baking.
Can I substitute margarine with butter?
Absolutely! Butter can be used in place of margarine for a richer flavor. Just ensure it’s melted before mixing it with the other ingredients for even distribution.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).