There’s just something magical about that first bite of Butternut Squash Apple Bake. It’s soft, golden, and naturally sweet, with cinnamon warmth in every forkful. This simple fall dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for weeknight dinners or your Thanksgiving spread. Best of all, your kitchen will smell amazing while it bakes.
Why This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is a Fall Favorite
This Butternut Squash Apple Bake checks all the boxes. It’s seasonal, flavorful, and easy to throw together with everyday ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to impress or a cozy meal to enjoy on the couch, this one delivers
It pairs well with savory mains like roast chicken or can be sweetened up for a dessert-style treat. The warm cinnamon-spiced apples and tender squash are a match made in autumn heaven. And if you love squash as much as we do, you’ll adore this honey roasted butternut squash that brings out even more of those sweet, earthy flavors
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
3 apples (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or a mix), sliced thin
3 tablespoons unsalted butter or coconut oil
¼ cup maple syrup or brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
Optional Add-ins
½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
⅓ cup dried cranberries or raisins
This simple combo is what makes Butternut Squash Apple Bake shine. Every ingredient works together to give you that perfect cozy, sweet-and-savory bite
How to Make Butternut Squash Apple Bake
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Peel and cube the squash, then slice the apples. Toss them all in a big mixing bowl for your Butternut Squash Apple Bake base
Step 2: Spice It Up
Melt your butter and mix it with maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Pour over the squash and apples and toss until everything is coated in cozy flavor
Step 3: Bake It Beautiful
Pour everything into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes. Then uncover and bake for 15 more until golden and tender
Step 4: Let It Rest
Let your Butternut Squash Apple Bake cool for 5 10 minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle and the flavors blend. Looking for the perfect pairing? These creamy garlic mashed potatoes make the coziest fall plate
Tips for the Best Flavor and Texture
Use a mix of apple varieties for balanced flavor
Always cover with foil first so the squash gets tender before it browns
Taste your mixture before baking to adjust sweetness or spice
If you like a crispy top, broil it for 1 to 2 minutes right at the end
Variations to Try
Vegan-Friendly
Use coconut oil and maple syrup for a fully plant-based Butternut Squash Apple Bake
Maple-Drizzled
Add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup over the top before baking uncovered for a glossy finish
Grain-Loving
Stir in cooked quinoa or rolled oats for extra fiber and a breakfast-style twist
Spice Boost
Try cardamom, allspice, or even a little ginger if you’re craving deeper warmth
Serving Suggestions
You can serve this Butternut Squash Apple Bake as a warm holiday side, a simple weeknight veggie dish, or even as a dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
Try garnishing it with rosemary for a festive look or serving it with whipped cream on a chilly morning. It also makes an amazing brunch side. If you’re planning a fall breakfast spread, add our cranberry orange buttermilk cake to the menu for a sweet, citrusy finish
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Keep leftovers of your Butternut Squash Apple Bake in the fridge for up to 5 days
Freeze portions for longer storage and reheat covered in the oven
The flavor only gets better after a day or two, making it perfect for meal prep
Tools You’ll Need
Sharp knife and cutting board for prep
Large mixing bowl for tossing
9×13 baking dish for baking
Aluminum foil to keep it moist during the first bake
FAQs
Can I use frozen squash?
Yes! Just thaw and drain it first so it doesn’t water down your Butternut Squash Apple Bake
What apples work best?
Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness. Use a mix for the perfect bite
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely. Assemble the night before and bake it the next day. Just be sure to let it come to room temp before popping it in the oven
Final Thoughts
This Butternut Squash Apple Bake is like a warm hug from your oven. It’s wholesome, flexible, and gives off those cozy fall vibes in every bite. It’s easy to make, even easier to love, and always a hit on the table
You might also enjoy our garlic mashed potatoes for a hearty pairing or try the honey roasted butternut squash if you’re craving more veggie goodness
Follow us on Pinterest for more seasonal recipe inspiration or join the fun on Facebook to share what you’re cooking
Butternut Squash Apple Bake
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash peeled and cubed
- 3 apples Honeycrisp, Fuji, or a mix, sliced thin
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter or coconut oil
- ¼ cup maple syrup or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- Optional: ⅓ cup dried cranberries or raisins
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Peel and cube the squash, then slice the apples. Toss them all in a big mixing bowl.
- Melt the butter and mix it with maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Pour over the squash and apples and toss to coat evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and tender.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so the flavors can settle and meld beautifully.