Butternut Squash And Apple Bake
A warm, comforting bake combining sweet butternut squash and apples with aromatic spices, topped with walnuts—perfect for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and slice the butternut squash and apples.
- Layer the sliced squash and apples into a slightly greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle walnuts over the layered fruits.
- Combine brown sugar, melted butter, flour, salt, mace, and cinnamon, then pour this mixture over the layered ingredients.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using different apple varieties like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. If you're out of mace, nutmeg can be a good substitute. Try to slice the butternut squash evenly for consistent cooking. Ensure to use a baking dish that allows space for bubbling, as the mixture can overflow. This dish is also excellent served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
This dish makes a delightful side for roasted meats or a cozy vegetarian main course. Pair it with a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It also complements brunch well, especially alongside Night Hawk Corn Bread Muffin or Delicious Dinner Rolls. Serve it warm to enhance the flavors and enjoy the delightful contrast of the sweet apples and savory squash.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the butternut squash and apple bake to cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butternut Squash And Apple Bake contains roughly 905 calories, with 3g protein, 203g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 634mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
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 prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the butternut squash and apple bake a day in advance. Simply layer the ingredients in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What kind of apples work best for this recipe?
For this recipe, a mix of sweet and tart apples works best. Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are excellent choices as they hold their shape and provide a nice balance of sweetness and acidity. You can also experiment with other types to find your perfect flavor combination.
Can I add other fruits or nuts to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add dried cranberries or pears for additional flavor and texture. You can also substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty profile. Just be mindful of the additional moisture from fruits, as it may affect baking time.
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).