I absolutely love this Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe because it feels like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly day. The cozy blend of sweet butternut squash and tart apples delivers a soup that’s creamy without any cream, making it both comforting and surprisingly light. Whenever the temperature dips, this soup is my go-to for a quick yet nourishing meal that feels special without fuss.
You’ll find that the combination of roasted squash and onion with fragrant sage and garlic makes for an incredibly flavorful base that’s beautifully balanced by the fruity zing of Granny Smith apples. Trust me, once you try this Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe, it’s going to be that one dish you keep coming back to all autumn and winter long!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Richly Flavored: Roasting the butternut squash and onions adds depth and caramelized sweetness that makes every spoonful delicious.
- Naturally Creamy: The silken tofu blends into the soup for creaminess without any heavy cream or dairy.
- Balanced Sweet & Savory: The tart apples perfectly cut through the sweetness of the squash for a well-rounded flavor.
- Easy & Wholesome: With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, it’s a soup you can make even on busy days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe is in the fresh, simple ingredients that come together to create such warmth and comfort. Choosing quality butternut squash and tart apples like Granny Smith really brings out the best flavors, so take a moment to pick the freshest produce you can find.
- Butternut squash: The star ingredient, sweet and creamy when roasted—make sure to remove seeds for smooth texture.
- Yellow onion: Adds savory depth; roasting brings out its natural sweetness.
- Sage powder: Earthy and aromatic, sage pairs beautifully with squash and apples.
- Garlic powder: Adds a gentle punch without overpowering the soup.
- Salt: For seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Black pepper: Freshly ground is best, especially for garnishing.
- Olive oil: Use good quality for roasting and final drizzle.
- Water: To simmer and blend flavors—add more or less for your preferred soup thickness.
- Vegetable bouillon cube: Provides a savory broth base; make sure it melts fully.
- Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs adds complexity, elevating the overall taste.
- Granny Smith apples: Tartness balances the sweet squash beautifully; one is blended, one is fresh for garnish.
- Silken tofu: Acts as a creamy, dairy-free base that blends perfectly smooth.
Variations
I love encouraging tweaks so you can make this Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe fit your taste or diet perfectly. Sometimes I swap a few seasonings or add a little extra something to surprise my family—even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a warm kick!
- Spiced Up: I’ve added a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle heat, which adds an exciting twist without overpowering the natural sweetness.
- Dairy Addition: If you aren’t dairy-free, stirring in a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream after blending makes it ultra-rich and silky.
- Herb Variations: Fresh thyme or rosemary can replace Italian seasoning for a woodsy vibe—I always keep fresh herbs handy to switch things up.
- Vegan Protein Boost: Toss in cooked chickpeas or lentils for extra protein and texture if you want a heartier meal.
How to Make Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe
Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash and Onions to Perfection
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the butternut squash slices and chopped onion on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Drizzle generously with olive oil, then sprinkle sage powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything so the seasoning coats all the pieces evenly. Bake for about 30 minutes, checking the tenderness with a fork. If it’s not quite soft and caramelized, pop it back in for 5-minute intervals. If the onions start to darken too much before the squash is ready, take them out early and set them aside—burnt onions can get bitter and ruin the soup’s flavor!
Step 2: Simmer and Season the Soup Base
Transfer your roasted vegetables into a large pot, add 3 cups of water, a vegetable bouillon cube, and the Italian seasoning. Stir everything gently and bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover with the lid and let it simmer on low for 10 minutes. This lets the flavors marry beautifully and ensures your soup will be rich and full-bodied.
Step 3: Add the Apples and Silken Tofu, then Blend
While the soup is simmering, peel and core one Granny Smith apple, then roughly chop it. Once the simmering time is up, add the apple chunks and the silken tofu directly into the pot. Stir to combine, then use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth and velvety. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can blend the soup in batches in your countertop blender, just be careful with the hot liquid. Feel free to add more hot water if you prefer a thinner soup—just adjust the thickness to your liking. Don’t forget to taste it here and add salt or pepper to suit your preference.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve with Fresh Apple
Peel, core, and finely dice the second apple, reserving it for garnish. When you’re ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle diced apple over the top for a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy soup. For an extra touch, drizzle with olive oil and add a little sage powder and black pepper as a finishing flourish—it looks beautiful and tastes wonderful.
Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe
- Roasting Matters: Don’t rush the roasting step—it deepens flavor and caramelizes natural sugars, making your soup taste richer.
- Silken Tofu Smoothness: Use silken tofu for a creamy texture without dairy; regular tofu won’t blend as smoothly.
- Apple Placement: Adding one apple to the soup and keeping another fresh for garnish creates both depth and texture contrast.
- Avoid Over-Blending: Blend just enough so the soup is smooth but not watery—if needed, thin with water gradually to find your perfect consistency.
How to Serve Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe
Garnishes
I always love adding a little bit of fresh diced apple on top for crunch and brightness. A sprinkle of extra sage powder and black pepper adds earthiness and a little kick. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil tied it all together with a silky finish. If you want to get fancy, a few toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped fresh parsley will add color and texture too.
Side Dishes
My family goes crazy for this soup served alongside a crusty piece of sourdough bread or a warm garlic naan. It pairs wonderfully with simple green salads or roasted Brussels sprouts to keep things seasonal. For a heartier meal, I sometimes serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich, which is always a crowd-pleaser.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday dinners or cozy gatherings, I like to serve this Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe in small, brom-bowls or ramekins to look elegant and inviting. You can also swirl in a little coconut cream or swirl of pesto for a festive appearance. Adding a sprig of fresh thyme or sage on top makes it feel like a truly special treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. It thickens a bit when chilled, so just add a splash of hot water or broth when reheating to loosen it up without losing that creamy texture.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully! I like to divide it into single-serve freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove. The texture remains smooth and flavors hold up well even after freezing.
Reheating
Reheat your soup over low to medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Add a little bit of water or broth to bring back the perfect consistency, and adjust seasoning if needed before serving. Avoid reheating too quickly or boiling to keep the tofu smooth and prevent the soup from breaking.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried in this Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs like sage, thyme, or rosemary can be used in place of dried herbs to add a vibrant, fresh flavor. Just remember to add fresh herbs later in the cooking process to preserve their delicate flavors, usually during the simmering stage or as a garnish.
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What can I substitute for silken tofu if I can’t find it?
If silken tofu isn’t available, you can substitute with a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream to achieve the creamy texture. However, tofu adds protein and keeps this soup vegan and lower in fat, so consider your dietary needs when choosing a substitute.
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How do I make this soup thicker or thinner?
To adjust the thickness, simply play with the amount of water or broth you add. For a thicker soup, add less liquid or simmer longer to reduce; for a thinner soup, add more hot water gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
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Can I prepare this Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can roast the squash and onions a day in advance, then assemble and blend the soup just before serving. This can save you time on busy days and helps the flavors deepen even more.
Final Thoughts
This Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe quickly became one of my favorite ways to enjoy seasonal produce with minimal effort but maximum flavor. I hope you’ll give it a try soon—there’s something so comforting about that smooth, velvety texture paired with the bright apple garnish that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s perfect for cozy nights in, family dinners, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something nourishing and delicious. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your own twists and make this recipe truly yours!
PrintButternut Squash and Apple Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting and Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cozy and creamy Butternut Squash and Apple Soup that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and earthy flavors. Roasted butternut squash and onions blended with tart Granny Smith apples and silken tofu for a smooth, satisfying fall-inspired meal, ideal for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Fruits
- 4 cups butternut squash (sliced into ½-inch thick slices or cubed)
- 1 yellow onion (chopped)
- 2 large Granny Smith apples
Seasonings & Spices
- 1 teaspoon sage powder (plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (plus more for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Liquids & Others
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for garnish)
- 3 to 4 cups water
- 1 vegetable bouillon cube
- 1 (12-ounce) box silken tofu
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare for roasting: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
- Roast the vegetables: Spread the cubed butternut squash and chopped onion evenly on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sage powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together to coat evenly. Roast in the oven for 30 minutes, checking tenderness at that time. If the squash is still firm, continue roasting in 5-minute increments. If onions start to burn, remove them early and set aside.
- Simmer the roasted veggies: Transfer the roasted butternut squash and onions to a large pot with a lid. Add 3 cups of water, the vegetable bouillon cube, and Italian seasoning. Stir well, bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then cover and simmer for 10 minutes. After simmering, turn off the heat and let it rest undisturbed.
- Prepare the apples and blend: While the soup rests, peel, core, and roughly chop one apple. Add this apple and the entire box of silken tofu to the hot soup. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Puree the soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender, blend until smooth, and return to the pot. Add extra boiling water if you want a thinner consistency. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Garnish and serve: Peel, core, and dice the second apple. Ladle the soup into bowls, and top each serving with 1–2 tablespoons of the diced apple. Optionally, sprinkle extra black pepper, sage powder, and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- This soup offers a perfect harmony of sweet and savory, making it a warming, nutritious choice for fall and winter meals.
- Roasting the vegetables develops rich caramelized flavors that deepen the soup’s taste.
- Silken tofu adds a creamy texture and plant-based protein, making this soup suitable for vegetarians.
- Adjust the thinning water amount according to your preferred soup thickness.
- For a spicier variation, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes during seasoning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 773 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg