Squash Gems
Sweet and tender squash muffins with a hint of spice, perfect for breakfast or snack, appealing to both kids and adults seeking wholesome baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the egg well.
- Add mashed winter squash, milk, cooking oil, and sugar to the beaten egg.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Sift together flour, salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar, then add to the wet mixture.
- Blend until smooth and well incorporated.
- Pour the batter into greased muffin pans.
- Bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butternut squash or a mix of squash varieties. If you’re out of cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of lemon juice or vinegar. You can also make these gems gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. Adjust baking time slightly if using larger muffin pans.
Serving Suggestions
These Squash Gems are delightful served warm, perhaps with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. They pair wonderfully with a side of Cheesy Chili Topper for a savory contrast. Enjoy them as a breakfast treat or a snack alongside your favorite tea or coffee. For a heartier meal, serve with a fresh salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Squash Gems in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squash Gems contains roughly 443 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1038mg per serving (45% 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 use frozen squash instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen mashed winter squash in this recipe. Just ensure it is fully thawed and drained of any excess moisture before measuring. This will help maintain the right consistency and flavor in your Squash Gems.
Can I make these gems vegan?
Absolutely! To make the Squash Gems vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk. You can also substitute the cooking oil with a neutral oil like coconut or canola.
How can I make these Squash Gems more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your Squash Gems, consider adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the dry ingredients. A pinch of vanilla extract in the wet mixture can also add a lovely depth. These variations can elevate the dish and make it even more enjoyable.
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).