This baked butternut squash is a warm treat! Tender squash is perfectly roasted and topped with sweet cinnamon butter that makes every bite delightful.
It’s a perfect side dish for any meal, and the smell of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen is simply irresistible. I love serving it warm—it brightens even the dullest of days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butternut Squash: This is the star of the dish! Choose a medium squash for the perfect amount. If butternut squash isn’t available, acorn squash or pumpkin can work as a great alternative.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. Some people enjoy using ghee for a nutty flavor.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and richness. You can swap it with maple syrup or honey for a different twist. If you prefer a lower sugar option, try a sugar substitute, but keep in mind it may alter the taste slightly.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is a must for that warm flavor. If you like it spicier, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra depth.
How Do I Ensure My Butternut Squash is Perfectly Roasted?
Roasting your butternut squash until golden brown is key for flavors. Here are some tips:
- Preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. An oven not fully heated can result in mushy squash.
- Cut the squash into even cubes about 1 inch in size to promote uniform cooking.
- Be generous with the space on the baking sheet; crowded cubes will steam instead of roasting. Use two pans if needed.
- Turning the squash halfway through baking helps it caramelize evenly.
Following these tips will give you perfectly roasted butternut squash every time! Enjoy the delicious result!
Baked Butternut Squash With Cinnamon Butter
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 to 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
- Optional: small dollops of softened butter for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty side dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. Overall, set aside about 40 minutes of your day to enjoy the delicious flavors of baked butternut squash!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when your squash goes in. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to make clean-up easy!
2. Mix the Cinnamon Butter:
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined and it smells amazing!
3. Coat the Squash:
Now, toss in your cubed butternut squash. Use a spatula or your hands to mix it all up, ensuring every piece gets coated with that sweet cinnamon butter mixture.
4. Spread on the Baking Sheet:
Once your squash is coated, spread the cubes out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. This helps them roast evenly.
5. Bake Away:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and let it bake for about 25-30 minutes. Don’t forget to give the squash a little turn halfway through so they caramelize beautifully on all sides!
6. Serve It Up:
When the squash is tender and golden, take it out of the oven. Transfer it to a serving dish. If you like, add some small dollops of softened butter on top for an extra melt-in-your-mouth touch. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary for a lovely aroma and color!
7. Enjoy!
Your baked butternut squash with cinnamon butter is now ready to be savored! Serve it warm and enjoy every sweet and savory bite!
Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash! Just make sure to thaw it completely before mixing it with the cinnamon butter. You might want to adjust the baking time slightly since frozen squash may have more moisture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the butternut squash and coat it with the cinnamon butter up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and then bake it when you’re ready to serve. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked butternut squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave it in short bursts until warm.
What Can I Serve with Baked Butternut Squash?
This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or as part of a fall-inspired vegetable medley. You can also enjoy it as a stand-alone dish or add it to a salad for extra sweetness and texture!