Butternut Squash Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy autumn treat that feels like a hug in bread form, this Butternut Squash Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. I absolutely love this recipe because it’s moist, subtlety spiced, and has just the right hint of orange to brighten every bite. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again, especially when squash is in season or even if you’re using a jar of puree from the store!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The harmony of spices, squash, and sugars in this Butternut Squash Bread Recipe make it truly special. Using fresh squash puree is my favorite, but if you’re short on time, canned puree works just as well without compromising flavor.

• All-purpose flour: Make sure to spoon and level it for accurate measurement—it really helps the bread’s texture.
• Baking soda: For that perfect rise and light crumb without being dense.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Ground nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and cinnamon: These warm spices bring out the cozy fall vibes I adore.
• Vegetable oil: You can use any neutral oil—this keeps the bread tender and moist.
• Granulated white sugar and light brown sugar: The combo adds depth of sweetness and slight caramel notes.
• Large eggs: Room temperature eggs help everything blend smoothly.
• Butternut squash puree: Fresh or canned—both work, but roasting your own adds that extra squash flavor kick.
• Orange juice (or water): I love how the orange juice adds a subtle citrus pop but water is a fine substitute if you’re out.

Variations

One of the reasons I keep coming back to this Butternut Squash Bread Recipe is how easy it is to tweak for different tastes or dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!

• Add-ins: I often toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for a little crunch that my family goes crazy for.
• Gluten-free option: I’ve swapped in a gluten-free flour blend with great results—just keep an eye on the moisture content.
• Sweetener swaps: For a less sweet bread, reduce the sugars or try using coconut sugar for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Spice twist: Sometimes I add a pinch of cardamom or allspice for an interesting new spin on flavor.

How to Make Butternut Squash Bread Recipe

Step 1: Roast and Puree Your Squash

I highly recommend roasting your own butternut squash for the freshest, most flavorful puree. Cut it in half, scoop out the seeds, and drizzle a bit of oil on the flesh. Place it face-down on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 45 to 60 minutes, depending on size. When it’s tender and cool enough to handle, scrape out the flesh and whiz it in a food processor until smooth. This step really amps up the natural sweetness and depth of flavor.

Step 2: Prep Your Pan and Oven

While the squash is roasting or if you’re using canned, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F. I like to use a 9×5-inch loaf pan lined with parchment or greased well with butter—this ensures your loaf pops out easily once baked.

Step 3: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and those comforting spices — nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and cinnamon. This helps evenly distribute everything so the bread bakes with a consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pureed butternut squash, and orange juice. Whisk this mixture until it’s smooth and well combined. The squash adds lovely moisture, so don’t skip this step!

Step 5: Combine and Bake

Add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture and fold everything together gently with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix—just combine until you don’t see dry flour spots anymore. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 60-65 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan on a wire rack before slicing; this helps it set beautifully.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Bread Recipe

Garnishes

I often serve slices of this bread plain because the flavor stands out so well on its own, but a thin spread of whipped cinnamon butter or a smear of cream cheese is heaven on top of a warm slice. Sometimes I sprinkle some toasted pecans for a little crunch and added texture.

Side Dishes

This butternut squash bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of chai or coffee for breakfast or a snack. When I serve it for brunch, I like to put out fresh fruit or a simple yogurt parfait. It also complements creamy soups really well if you want to serve it as a light lunch side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a lovely fall gathering, I’ve sliced this bread into bite-sized pieces, drizzled them with a little honey, and let guests sprinkle chopped nuts or dried cranberries on top. It instantly turns the bread into a fancy hors d’oeuvre that everyone comments on. Plus, it’s super easy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or store in a sealed container at room temperature to keep the bread from drying out. My family usually finishes it within two days, but if you want it to last longer, refrigeration is your friend for up to one week.

Freezing

Freezing this bread works wonderfully! I slice it beforehand and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them all in a freezer-safe bag. When I’m ready, I pop a slice in the toaster or microwave for a quick treat that tastes almost as fresh as the day it was baked.

Reheating

To reheat, I usually toast sliced bread lightly to get back that fresh-baked warmth and a slight crisp on the edges. If you prefer, a quick zap in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel keeps it moist without drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Butternut Squash Bread Recipe has become a comforting staple in my kitchen, especially as the days get cooler. It’s easy to make, packed with warm fall flavors, and just moist enough to keep everyone coming back for another slice. I hope you’ll enjoy baking and sharing it as much as I do—it’s truly one of those recipes that invites a little joy with every bite. Give it a try next time you have some butternut squash ready, and you might just find your new favorite bread!

Print