Squash With Apple Filling
Sweet and savory acorn squash filled with warm apple pie filling, cinnamon, nutmeg, and butter, perfect for cozy dinners or holiday gatherings with comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pierce the squash with a fork in several places and bake whole until they are soft but still firm.
- Let the squash cool until comfortable to handle.
- Cut the squash in half and scoop out the seeds.
- Fill the squash cavity with apple pie filling.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and nutmeg to taste.
- Dot with butter.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot, about 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, consider using fresh apples instead of canned apple pie filling; just peel and slice them thinly, then mix with sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. You can also replace butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. When piercing the squash, ensure you make enough holes for steam to escape, preventing them from bursting in the oven. Adjust the spices based on your preference for sweetness or warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the squash warm as a delightful side dish during fall meals or as a light dessert. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a fresh salad like Angge'S Salad for a balanced meal. You could also top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. Consider serving alongside a nutty grain like quinoa for a hearty vegetarian option.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the squash halves in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them on a microwave-safe plate for 3-5 minutes, checking for warmth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squash With Apple Filling contains roughly 728 calories, with 7g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value) and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a different type of squash for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute acorn squash with butternut squash or even delicata squash. Just ensure the squash you choose can hold its shape when baked and has a sweet flavor to complement the apple filling.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil or vegan butter. Additionally, ensure the apple pie filling does not contain any dairy ingredients.
How can I enhance the flavor of the apple filling?
For added depth, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the apple pie filling. You can also mix in dried cranberries or raisins for extra texture and tartness.
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).