As the first chill of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like the heartwarming aroma of roasted butternut squash and sweet apples filling my kitchen. This velvety Butternut Squash Apple Soup is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl that captures the very essence of the season. Picture yourself cradling a warm bowl, the creamy texture melting on your tongue, each spoonful harmonizing the earthy savoriness of squash with the gentle sweetness of apples.

After a long day, this nourishing soup comes together easily, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or friendly gatherings. What truly sets it apart is its versatility—whether you opt for rich heavy cream or a lighter coconut milk, this soup adapts beautifully to your preferences. So, let’s dive into a recipe that not only nourishes the body but also soothes the soul, bringing a bit of magic to your mealtime this autumn.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Butternut Squash & Apple Soup

Comforting Embrace: This soup is truly a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly autumn evenings.

Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with vitamins, it’s a guilt-free indulgence for the whole family.

Easy to Prepare: Even busy home cooks can whip this up in no time.

Versatile Flavors: Choose between heavy cream or coconut milk to suit your taste.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress friends and family alike with its rich, savory sweetness—a sure hit during gatherings.

Pair it with a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a delightful meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table this season!

Roasted Butternut Squash & Apple Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Butternut Squash – Provides earthiness and sweetness; roasting enhances its flavor.
Apples – Adds a touch of sweetness and tartness; any sweet-tart variety works well.
Onion – Creates a rich aromatic base; yellow onion is suggested for the best flavor.
Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor profile; always use fresh garlic for its bold taste.

For the Broth

Broth (Vegetable or Chicken) – Serves as the savory liquid base; opt for low-sodium for better control over salt.

For the Creaminess

Butter – Adds richness and depth; can be substituted with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk – Offers a silky texture; Greek yogurt can lighten it (add after cooling to avoid curdling).

For Flavor Enhancements

Sage – Brings an earthy, fragrant note to the soup; thyme can be a suitable substitute if sage isn’t available.
Nutmeg, Salt, White Pepper – Elevate the soup’s overall flavor; always use fresh spices for the best taste.

Embrace the warmth of this Roasted Butternut Squash & Apple Soup and allow its delightful flavors to wrap around you like a soft blanket this autumn!

How to Make Roasted Butternut Squash & Apple Soup

Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This is essential for achieving that beautifully caramelized butternut squash.
Prepare Squash: Cut your butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Toss the squash halves with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Roast Squash: Place the squash face down on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and caramelized. The skin should be easily pierced with a fork when done.
Sauté Onion: In a large pot, melt your butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent, filling your kitchen with a warm aroma.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The golden garlic will add a delightful flavor foundation to your soup.
Incorporate Broth: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the chopped apples and sage, and cook for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Combine Squash: Once the squash is roasted, scoop the flesh out and add it to the pot. Allow everything to simmer together for another 10 minutes, enhancing the soup’s rich flavor.
Blend Smooth: Using a high-powered blender, blend the soup in batches until silky smooth. Return the blended mixture to the pot and stir in heavy cream or coconut milk.
Season to Taste: Add a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and white pepper, adjusting to your liking. Gently heat through, being careful not to boil the soup after adding cream.
Garnish & Serve: Serve your soup hot, garnished with crispy sage leaves or a swirl of cream for an extra touch of comfort and elegance.

Optional: Toasted pumpkin seeds add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor when sprinkled on top.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Roasted Butternut Squash & Apple Soup Variations

Feel free to put your personal spin on this delightful soup to make it your own!

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a warm, spicy note that elevates the flavors beautifully.
Herb Infusion: Swap sage for fresh rosemary or thyme for a different herbal twist; their aromatic qualities will create a new depth in the soup.
Nutty Texture: Stir in a handful of toasted walnuts or pecans for an added crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy soup.
Creamy Vegan Delight: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or silken tofu blended until smooth for a luscious, dairy-free version.
Savory Element: Incorporate sautéed leeks or shallots instead of onion for a sweeter, more delicate aromatic base—perfect for those who enjoy subtlety in flavors.
Fruit Variations: Substitute some apples with pears for a unique sweetness that complements the squash beautifully. Pears offer a delightful twist to the traditional flavor profile.
Additional Greens: Stir in a handful of baby spinach or kale just before blending for a nutritional boost and a splash of color.
Flavorful Garnish: Top with crispy bacon or prosciutto for a savory crunch—this addition will bring an exciting contrast to the rich, creamy soup.

Don’t be afraid to mix and match these ideas! Each variation brings its own story and warmth to this classic autumn dish. Enjoy!

What to Serve with Roasted Butternut Squash & Apple Soup?

Pair this soulful soup with delightful accompaniments that enhance its warm, cozy flavors.

Crispy Sourdough Bread: The rustic crust and soft interior make a perfect match for dipping into the velvety soup. The bread’s slight chewiness complements the creamy texture beautifully.
Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a bright, tangy contrast to the rich soup, balancing your meal delightfully. Toss in some walnuts for crunch and boost the nutrition!
Wild Rice Pilaf: Earthy wild rice enriched with herbs provides a hearty side that pairs excellently with the sweetness of the squash and apples. It’s a satisfying option for those looking for a filling accompaniment.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts bring a touch of nuttiness and crispness, enhancing the overall plate with a wonderful depth of flavor. Their slight bitterness balances the soup’s sweetness.
Cheese Toasties: Grilled cheese sandwiches made with sharp cheddar or tangy goat cheese offer a comforting, melty bite next to the soup, creating a nostalgic warmth that’ll have everyone smiling.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, consider a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream. Its sweetness echoes the soup’s apple notes, making for a beautifully cohesive autumnal meal.

These pairings will create a heartwarming dining experience that celebrates the essence of fall!

Expert Tips for Roasted Butternut Squash & Apple Soup

• Roast for Richness: Take your time roasting butternut squash; this caramelization deepens the flavors, making your soup irresistibly tasty.

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh garlic and spices. They elevate the soup’s flavor profile and ensure each bite is vibrant and aromatic.

• Blending Technique: Use a high-powered blender for a creamy texture. Avoid boiling the soup after adding cream to keep it silky smooth and rich.

• Storage Savvy: Leftover soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for longer. Just leave room for expansion in your containers!

• Customize with Care: Feel free to experiment with stir-ins like cooked quinoa or lentils for added nutrition, but remember to adjust seasonings accordingly.

Let these tips guide you as you create your own delightful Roasted Butternut Squash & Apple Soup that will warm hearts this autumn!

How to Store and Freeze Roasted Butternut Squash & Apple Soup

Fridge: Keep your soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This ensures it stays fresh and ready for a quick reheating.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion. It can be stored for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain creaminess.
Serving Ideas: When reheating, consider adding an extra splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for heightened richness. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Roasted Butternut Squash & Apple Soup!

Make Ahead Options

These Roasted Butternut Squash & Apple Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can roast the butternut squash and prepare the soup base up to 24 hours in advance. Simply roast your squash and sauté the onions and garlic, then refrigerate the soup components separately. When you’re ready to serve, blend the soup with the added roasted squash and cream or coconut milk, ensuring that it’s just as delicious as if made fresh. For longer storage, this soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to leave room in the containers for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating on the stovetop, and enjoy this nourishing comfort food with minimal prep on the day you serve!

Roasted Butternut Squash & Apple Soup Recipe FAQs

How can I tell if my butternut squash is ripe?
Absolutely! When selecting a butternut squash, look for one that has a firm, tan skin free of dark spots and soft areas. A ripe squash should feel heavy for its size and have a dull sheen; glossy skin usually means it’s under-ripe.

How should I store leftover soup?
Very simple! Once the soup has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, follow the freezing instructions below.

Can I freeze Roasted Butternut Squash & Apple Soup?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your soup, pour it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring to leave about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before gently reheating on the stovetop to enjoy again.

What should I do if my soup is too thick after blending?
That’s a great question! If your soup turns out thicker than desired, you can simply add more broth or a splash of water while gently heating it on the stovetop. Stir until you achieve your preferred consistency, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.

Is this soup safe for those with dairy allergies?
Absolutely! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or use Greek yogurt added after cooling to keep it dairy-free. Just keep in mind to check your broth choice as well, opting for a vegetable broth.

What can I do with leftover roasted butternut squash seeds?
I often roast the seeds after cleaning them! Toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and your favorite spices, then bake at 350°F until crispy for a delicious snack or a crunchy topping for your soup. It’s a lovely way to reduce waste while adding flavor!