Looking to elevate your winter meals with a cozy and delicious twist? Dive into the world of homemade winter squash baking sauce! This creamy, flavorful sauce is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a rich, velvety sauce that pairs perfectly with pancakes, waffles, or even as a delightful filling for your favorite pastries. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- winter squash
- butter
- brown sugar
- vanilla extract
- salt
Instructions
- Prepare the winter squash by washing and cutting it in half. Remove the seeds and stringy pulp from the center using a spoon.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast the squash in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes until it's safe to handle.
- Scoop out the roasted squash flesh into a food processor or blender, discarding the skin.
- Add softened butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the squash.
- Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more brown sugar or salt to preference.
- Transfer the sauce to a clean jar or container. Can be served warm or chilled.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently before serving if desired.
Tips
- Choosing the Right Squash: Opt for sweet varieties like butternut or acorn squash for the best flavor. Look for squash that feels heavy for its size with a firm skin.
- Roasting for Flavor: Don’t rush the roasting process! Allow the squash to roast until it’s tender and caramelized, which enhances its natural sweetness.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Taste the sauce after blending and feel free to adjust the sweetness. Depending on your preference, you might want to add a bit more brown sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth.
- Storage Tips: This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve this sauce warm over pancakes, or chill it and use it as a dip for fruits or a spread for toast. It’s also fantastic as a filling for pastries or drizzled over desserts!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
