Description
This creamy acorn squash soup is the perfect fall comfort food! Made with roasted acorn squash, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness, it’s a nutritious, velvety-smooth soup that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy dinner or a festive holiday starter, this soup is sure to impress!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Soup:
- 1 large acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for roasting)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for natural sweetness)
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Toasted pumpkin seeds
- A drizzle of heavy cream or coconut cream
- Fresh thyme or parsley
- Croutons or crusty bread
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Acorn Squash
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Drizzle the acorn squash halves with olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Roast for 35-40 minutes or until the flesh is tender and caramelized.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 3: Blend the Soup
- Once the squash has cooled slightly, scoop out the soft flesh and add it to the pot.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, followed by the cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Use an immersion blender to blend until smooth and creamy (or transfer to a blender in batches).
Step 4: Simmer & Serve
- Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and the maple syrup (if using).
- Simmer the soup for 5 more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Garnish & Enjoy!
- Serve warm, garnished with toasted pumpkin seeds, a swirl of cream, and fresh herbs.
- Enjoy with a side of crusty bread or croutons!
Notes
- Make it Vegan: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and swap maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
- Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of smoked paprika.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Blending, Roasting
- Cuisine: American, Fall Seasonal