Is there anything more comforting on a chilly evening than the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked bread? This winter squash bread recipe takes that comforting feeling to a whole new level. The sweetness of the squash blends beautifully with warming spices, creating a moist and flavorful loaf perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack. It's incredibly easy to make, even for beginner bakers, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. This recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes you can create with simple, homemade cooking techniques. Get ready to enjoy this fantastic addition to your best recipes!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups butternut squash puree (about 1 medium butternut squash)
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Squash
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the butternut squash several times with a fork.
- Roast the whole squash on a baking sheet for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender. You can tell it's done when a fork easily pierces the flesh.
- Let the squash cool slightly, then cut it in half and scoop out the seeds and flesh.
- Puree the squash flesh using a food processor or immersion blender until completely smooth. Measure out 1 ½ cups of puree; you can save the rest for another recipe!
Baking the Bread:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the oil and sugar until well combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Stir in the butternut squash puree and nuts (if using).
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Variations:
- For a sweeter bread: Increase the sugar to ¾ cup.
- Add some spice: A dash of ginger or cardamom would complement the other spices beautifully.
- Make it healthier: Substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour.
- Get creative with additions: Try adding dried cranberries, raisins, or chocolate chips.
- Make muffins: This batter works perfectly in muffin tins. Bake for 18-20 minutes.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 10-12g Carbohydrates: 35-40g Protein: 4-5g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This winter squash bread is a delicious and satisfying treat that's perfect for any autumn or winter gathering. It’s a simple yet impressive recipe that's sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy!