Description
Fall comfort food doesn’t get better than this Autumn Butternut Squash Apple Bake. Perfectly roasted butternut squash, tart apples, cranberries, and crunchy pecans come together with warm spices and a drizzle of maple syrup to create a dish that’s sweet, savory, and deeply satisfying. Whether you need an easy dinner side, a healthy snack, or fresh food ideas for the season, this easy recipe has you covered. It’s naturally gluten-free, rich in fiber, and ideal for cozy breakfast ideas or hearty dinner ideas during the cooler months.
Ingredients
2 1/2 to 3 cups cubed butternut squash
3 medium apples, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons orange juice
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Peel and chop the butternut squash and apples into evenly sized cubes.
3. In a large bowl, combine squash, apples, cranberries, and pecans.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted butter, orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
5. Pour the liquid mixture over the produce and toss until evenly coated.
6. Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish and spread into an even layer.
7. Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, stirring halfway through, until squash is fork-tender and edges are caramelized.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
For deeper flavor, toast the pecans briefly before adding them.
If you’re short on time, use pre-cubed squash from the grocery store.
Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to avoid them becoming mushy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: easy recipe, autumn side dish, butternut squash, healthy snack, fall food ideas