Why You’ll Love this Autumn Butternut Squash Bread
Everyone needs a go-to quick bread recipe when the temperatures drop and the leaves start to change.
This butternut squash bread is about to become your fall favorite. It’s incredibly moist, thanks to the oil and squash, with a warm spice profile that’ll make your kitchen smell like autumn heaven.
I love how versatile this bread is—perfect for breakfast with coffee, an afternoon snack, or even dessert with a dollop of cream cheese.
The secret ingredient? That instant pudding mix adds both sweetness and texture you can’t get otherwise.
And those pecans provide just the right amount of crunch.
What Ingredients are in Autumn Butternut Squash Bread?
This cozy butternut squash bread comes together with a simple list of pantry staples and, of course, some delicious butternut squash. The beauty of this recipe lies in its perfect balance of sweet and spice, with the secret addition of instant pudding mix that gives it an incredibly moist texture that stays fresh for days. You’ll need just a handful of ingredients to create this aromatic autumn treat that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
- 1 1/4 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 (3 1/2 ounce) package instant pudding mix (vanilla, lemon, or coconut)
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup oil
- 1 cup butternut squash, cooked and mashed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
When preparing your ingredients, the butternut squash deserves special attention. For best results, roast your squash until it’s fork-tender before mashing it to a smooth consistency. And don’t feel limited by pecans—walnuts make a wonderful substitute if that’s what you have on hand. As for the pudding mix, while vanilla is the classic choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with lemon or coconut for a subtle flavor twist that complements the warm autumn spices. The pudding is truly the unsung hero here, creating that bakery-worthy tender crumb we’re all after in a quick bread.
How to Make this Autumn Butternut Squash Bread
Making this butternut squash bread couldn’t be simpler, and the reward is a house filled with the most heavenly autumn aromas. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F—this moderate temperature guarantees our bread cooks evenly without burning the edges before the center sets.
While the oven warms up, grab two mixing bowls: one for your dry ingredients and another for the wet. In the first bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 2 1/2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice, and that magical 3 1/2 ounce package of instant pudding mix. The dry pudding mix might seem unusual in bread, but trust me, it’s the secret weapon for moisture that lasts for days.
In your second bowl, beat 2 eggs until they’re light and fluffy, then add 3/4 cup of sugar and 3/4 cup of oil, stirring until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly thickened. Next, fold in 1 cup of your cooked and mashed butternut squash along with 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. The squash should be completely cool before adding—hot squash can start cooking those eggs prematurely, and nobody wants scrambled eggs in their bread!
Now comes the critical moment: combine your wet and dry mixtures by hand, folding gently until just moist. Resist the urge to overmix, which can make your bread tough rather than tender. Once everything is barely incorporated, stir in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans for that perfect nutty crunch.
Pour this fragrant batter into a well-greased loaf pan, making sure to spread it evenly for uniform baking. For the smoothest, most consistent batter, consider using a premium food processor to perfectly puree your butternut squash without any stringy bits. Using authentic Mexican molcajetes can also give your squash a uniquely textured consistency that enhances the bread’s flavor profile. Pop it into your preheated oven and set a timer for 1 hour. The hardest part? Waiting patiently while your kitchen fills with the most comforting aroma imaginable.
You’ll know your bread is done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean—no wet batter clinging to it. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Though, between us, slicing into still-warm butternut squash bread might just be one of autumn’s greatest pleasures, even if it does crumble a bit more than when fully cooled.
Autumn Butternut Squash Bread Substitutions and Variations
While our classic butternut squash bread recipe is perfect as is, you might want to personalize it based on what’s in your pantry or dietary needs.
You can swap pumpkin for butternut squash, or use sweet potato for a different twist. Not a fan of pecans? Walnuts, sunflower seeds, or even chocolate chips work beautifully.
The pudding mix offers flexibility too—try coconut for a tropical note or vanilla for classic warmth.
For a healthier version, replace half the oil with applesauce and use whole wheat flour. A touch of maple syrup or brown sugar deepens the autumn flavors we all crave.
What to Serve with Autumn Butternut Squash Bread
With your fresh-baked butternut squash bread cooling on the rack, you’re probably wondering what pairs perfectly with these autumn flavors.
I’m thinking cream cheese, obviously—nothing beats that tangy spread on a warm slice. A honey butter would complement the sweetness while adding depth, or try apple butter for a double dose of fall.
Serve it alongside a steaming mug of chai tea or spiced cider.
Want something more substantial? This bread makes a delightful accompaniment to butternut squash soup, creating a theme that’s almost too on-the-nose, but who cares when it tastes this good?
Final Thoughts
After baking this delicious butternut squash bread, I’ve come to appreciate how versatile and rewarding this recipe truly is. The subtle sweetness paired with warm spices creates something truly special that works for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert.
Can you imagine anything more comforting on a crisp autumn day? The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is almost as satisfying as that first warm slice, perhaps with a touch of butter melting into every nook and cranny.
Don’t you think homemade treats like this connect us to seasonal rhythms in a meaningful way? Just like with fluffy pancakes, allowing your ingredients to reach room temperature before mixing can make a significant difference in the final texture of your baked goods.
This bread makes an excellent companion to gatherings, much like a creamy dip that brings people together around the table with minimal preparation but maximum enjoyment.
