Cozy Butternut Squash Soup Recipe for Fall and Winter Comfort 🍂🍲

As the crisp fall air settles in and we start reaching for our coziest sweaters, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of butternut squash soup. This recipe isn’t just about embracing autumn—it’s a hug in a bowl that will carry you through the chilly days of fall and right into winter. Made with roasted butternut squash and a blend of aromatic herbs, this soup is creamy, flavorful, and exactly what you need for cozy nights in.

Whether you’re preparing it for a laid-back weeknight dinner, or a hearty lunch to enjoy after a day spent raking leaves, this soup will warm both your heart and soul.

🍁 Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and chopped (preferably a sweet-tart variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: roasted pumpkin seeds and a drizzle of olive oil for garnish

🍂 How to Make the Butternut Squash Soup:

1. Roast the Butternut Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized. Roasting brings out the squash’s natural sweetness, adding depth and richness to the soup.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and apple, and sauté for 8-10 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

3. Spice it Up: Stir in the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and thyme. These warm spices will give your soup that cozy, fall flavor that makes it feel extra comforting—just the kind of thing you crave as the weather cools down. 🍁

4. Combine Everything: Add the roasted butternut squash to the pot and pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

5. Blend to Perfection: Once the soup has simmered, remove it from heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it’s completely smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth (just be cautious with hot liquids!). Stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream for added creaminess.

6. Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, topped with a drizzle of olive oil and roasted pumpkin seeds for a little crunch. It’s perfect alongside a slice of crusty bread or some garlic toast for dipping!

🍁 Tips for Making the Best Butternut Squash Soup:

• Roasting for Flavor: Roasting the squash before adding it to the soup intensifies the flavor and sweetness. It’s a step you don’t want to skip!
• Apple Adds Magic: The apple brings a lovely, subtle sweetness that complements the earthy squash. You won’t really taste the apple, but it makes the soup pop with flavor.
• Extra Creamy: Coconut milk keeps this soup dairy-free, but if you prefer a richer texture, heavy cream is a great option. Either way, it’s silky smooth!

Why This Soup Is Perfect for Fall and Winter 🍂❄️

This butternut squash soup is more than just a fall staple. As winter approaches in Canada and the U.S., when snow begins to fall, and the wind bites a little harder, this soup becomes a comforting and nourishing go-to. The warmth of the spices, the creamy texture, and the wholesome ingredients create a dish that not only tastes good but also feels like pure comfort. Imagine coming in from the cold, cheeks rosy from the winter wind, to the inviting aroma of this soup simmering on the stove. Whether you’re celebrating a cozy fall evening or embracing the quiet, serene days of winter, this butternut squash soup will be your go-to dish for those cold-weather months.

🍂 Pairing Suggestions:

To make the meal even more special, serve this soup with:

• Crusty bread: A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough for dipping.
• Autumn Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, walnuts, dried cranberries, and a maple vinaigrette would balance out the rich creaminess of the soup.
• Cheese Toasties: For extra indulgence, pair with grilled cheese sandwiches or cheesy garlic bread.

Enjoy the Cozy Season 🍲

This butternut squash soup is a reminder that as the days get shorter and the air gets cooler, there’s warmth and comfort to be found in simple, nourishing meals. Whether you’re cuddled up watching the leaves fall, or gearing up for winter’s first snow, this recipe will fill your home with the delicious aromas of the season and bring warmth to every spoonful.

So, cozy up, take a deep breath, and enjoy the season with this beautiful bowl of butternut squash soup. 🍂❄️