Butternut Squash Apple Soup
55 min
|
easy
|
lactose-free,
Mediterranean diet,
paleo-friendly,
vegan
Recipe by Eunice
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 25 min | 30 min | 55 min |
Introduction
This cozy butternut squash apple soup is silky-smooth, lightly sweet, and full of warm fall flavor in every spoonful.
The blend of roasted squash, crisp Gala apples, and coconut milk makes it naturally creamy without any heavy cream.
It’s perfect for a simple weeknight dinner, holiday starter, or a make-ahead lunch you can reheat all week.
Ingredients (4 servings)
Ingredients
Get Ingredients →Order the ingredients from your local store for pickup or delivery. You'll check out through Instacart.
When you purchase through this link, we'll receive a small fee at no extra cost to you.
How to Make Butternut Squash Apple Soup
-
Prep the vegetables
Peel, seed, and cube the butternut squash into roughly 1-inch pieces so they cook evenly.
Peel, core, and chop the Gala apples into chunks about the same size as the squash.
Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic so they soften and flavor the soup base quickly.
-
Sauté the aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring often, until softened and lightly golden, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, so it does not burn.
-
Simmer the squash and apples
Add the cubed butternut squash, chopped apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the vegetable bouillon cubes, then stir until the cubes start to dissolve.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
Simmer until the squash and apples are very tender when pierced with a fork, about 20 to 25 minutes.
-
Blend the soup
Turn off the heat and let the soup cool for a few minutes so it is safer to blend.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup in the pot until completely smooth and velvety.
If using a countertop blender, work in batches and vent the lid slightly so steam can escape safely.
-
Finish with coconut milk
Return the smooth soup to low heat if needed, then stir in the coconut milk until fully blended.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if you prefer a bolder flavor.
Warm the soup gently for a few minutes, without boiling, so the coconut milk stays silky.
-
Serve
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with a swirl of extra coconut milk, freshly ground pepper, or chopped herbs.
Serve with crusty bread, grilled cheese, or a simple green salad for a complete, cozy meal.
Substitutions
- Coconut milk -> heavy cream
- Use the same amount of heavy cream for a richer, more traditional bisque style texture. The soup will taste slightly less sweet and more savory.
- Coconut milk -> cashew cream
- Blend soaked raw cashews with water until silky, then use in place of coconut milk for a neutral, ultra creamy base. This keeps the soup dairy free but still very luxurious.
- Gala apples -> Honeycrisp or Fuji apples
- Swap in Honeycrisp or Fuji apples if Gala are not available, keeping the apple pieces about the same size. These varieties stay sweet and crisp, so the soup keeps its balanced, bright fruit flavor.
Tips
- Roast the squash for deeper flavor
- For extra caramelized sweetness, roast the squash cubes at 425°F until browned before adding them to the pot. This adds a toasty, slightly nutty flavor that makes the soup taste restaurant worthy.
- Balance the sweetness
- If your apples and squash are very sweet, brighten the soup with a small squeeze of lemon juice. The gentle acidity keeps the flavor from feeling heavy or flat.
- Control the thickness
- For a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered a few extra minutes after blending. For a thinner texture, whisk in small splashes of hot broth or water until you like the consistency.
- Use the right pot
- Choose a wide, heavy bottomed pot so the onions sauté evenly and the squash cooks at a steady simmer. Thin pots scorch easily and create bitter spots on the bottom.
- Cool slightly before blending
- Let the soup cool for a few minutes before blending, especially in a countertop blender. Cooler soup is safer to blend and helps prevent the lid from popping off.
Nutrition Facts *
| Energy | 326 | kcal |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 4 | g |
| Total Fat | 14 | g |
| Carbohydrates | 50 | g |
| Dietary Fiber | 9 | g |
* Approximate, per serving.
Data source: USDA FoodData Central.
FAQ
- How can I make this soup ahead and reheat it without losing the texture?
- Make the soup as written, but stop before adding coconut milk if you plan to store it longer. Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to four days or freeze for three months. Reheat gently on the stove, then stir in the coconut milk once the soup is hot but not boiling.
- What if my soup turns out too sweet?
- Balance the sweetness with a small squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar. You can also add a pinch more salt and black pepper, which helps round out the flavor.
- Can I use frozen butternut squash instead of fresh?
- Yes, frozen squash works well and saves prep time, though the flavor is slightly less sweet and complex. Add it straight from the freezer and simmer until very tender before blending.
- How can I make the soup spicier without overwhelming the apple flavor?
- Add a small pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with the other spices. Start with a very small amount, then taste and add more only if you want extra heat.
Serving Suggestions
This golden butternut squash apple soup shines with a simple garnish of toasted pepitas, chopped herbs, and a coconut milk swirl.
Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich, apple cheddar melt, or crusty sourdough for a very cozy dinner.
For a dinner party, serve small portions in mugs with a drizzle of chili oil for color and gentle heat.
Reviews
-
Ingrid, Florida: I was very intrigued by this combo of squash and apples. It was a hit with the kids. Will def make again.
: We're glad the soup was a hit with your family, Ingrid!
Made this recipe? How did it go?
Please leave your feedback below. We’d love to hear from you!
