Decadent Maple Walnut Butternut Squash Bread with Streusel

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and crimson, there’s a certain warmth that blankets the air. This is the perfect time to cozy up with a slice of Maple Walnut Butternut Squash Bread, a delightful treat that embodies the essence of fall. Whether it’s for a festive gathering or a simple family brunch, this bread will surely bring smiles to the table.

Inspired by family traditions of baking during the cooler months, this recipe has evolved into a beloved favorite. It’s an inviting blend of sweet maple, nutty walnuts, and creamy butternut squash that creates a unique flavor profile. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for bakers of all skill levels.

What sets this Maple Walnut Butternut Squash Bread apart is not only its delicious taste but also its rich texture and wholesome ingredients. It’s a treat that everyone, including those with dietary restrictions, can enjoy without guilt.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Maple Walnut Butternut Squash Bread is a culinary gem. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with comforting flavors and enticing aromas. From the moment you start mixing the ingredients, your kitchen will be filled with the warm scent of cinnamon and buttery squash, evoking memories of cozy afternoons spent baking with loved ones.

The combination of squash and maple syrup brings a natural sweetness, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. This bread is versatile too; serve it as a breakfast item, a snack, or even as a dessert with a dollop of cream cheese frosting. It’s perfect for sharing, making it a great centerpiece for gatherings.

What Does The Recipe Taste Like

This delightful bread boasts a rich, sweet flavor accented with subtle hints of maple and cinnamon. The butternut squash provides a creamy texture and earthy taste that balances perfectly with the nutty crunch of walnuts. Each bite is a harmonious combination of sweet and savory, with a hint of warmth from the spices. It’s a bread that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also envelops you with the comforting aroma of autumn.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to gather all the essential ingredients that will bring this Maple Walnut Butternut Squash Bread to life. Here’s a comprehensive list:

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups butternut squash puree: The star of the recipe, this creamy puree brings moisture and a naturally sweet flavor to the bread. Roasting the squash enhances its sweetness and depth.
• 1 cup maple syrup: Infusing the bread with a rich sweetness that beautifully complements the squash. Maple syrup also adds a unique flavor profile distinctive from regular sugar.
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender, allowing for a soft crumb. Can also be substituted with melted coconut oil for a unique flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Acts as a binding agent, giving the bread structure while contributing to its moistness.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the bread, providing structure; whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise, giving it a light texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Aids in leavening and adds a slight tang that enhances the other flavors.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth; consider increasing the amount for a spicier flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness, ensuring a well-rounded flavor.
• 1 cup walnuts, chopped: Adds crunch and nuttiness that pairs well with the sweet flavors.

Optional Additions

• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: For an extra depth of flavor and warmth that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins: Introduces a chewy texture and additional sweetness.
• Chocolate chips: For a sweeter treat, adding chocolate chips can transform this bread into a dessert-style option.

Special Garnishes

• Light dusting of powdered sugar: For a beautiful finishing touch that adds a pop of sweetness.
• Maple glaze: Drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and maple syrup can add a delightful sweetness.
• Fresh apple slices: Garnish individual slices with fresh apple for an aesthetic presentation and tangy contrast.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s get started with preparing this delightful Maple Walnut Butternut Squash Bread. Follow these steps for the best results:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the butternut squash puree: If you haven’t done so already, roast and blend the butternut squash until smooth. One medium-sized squash usually yields enough for the recipe. Let it cool slightly before using.
3. Mix wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the butternut squash puree, maple syrup, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
5. Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be slightly lumpy.
6. Fold in walnuts: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.
7. Pour into pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. Prepare the streusel topping: In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the batter.
9. Bake: Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Slice and serve: Once cooled, slice the bread and serve it as is or with your favorite spread.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile! You can transform it based on your flavor preferences or dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for a gluten-free option.
• Nut-Free: Omit walnuts entirely or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
• Sweetener Swap: Instead of maple syrup, you can try agave syrup for a different type of sweetness.
• Additional Spices: Feel free to mix in pumpkin pie spice for a fabulous fall flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Maple Walnut Butternut Squash Bread can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a perfect choice for breakfast, as a snack, or a delightful dessert choice. Here are some tips for serving and storing:

• For the best flavor, serve fresh slices slightly warm with a pat of butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• You can also freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for protection against freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Helpful Tips

• Make sure not to overmix the batter. A few lumps are perfectly fine for a moist bread.
• When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level with a knife for accuracy.
• Keep an eye on the bread as it bakes; every oven is different, so start checking for doneness a few minutes early.
• For added moisture, consider adding a tablespoon of yogurt or applesauce to the batter.

Special Equipment

To make this recipe easier, consider having the following equipment ready:

• Loaf Pan: A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan is best for this recipe, ensuring even baking.
• Mixing Bowls: Use medium to large mixing bowls for combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Whisk and spatula: A whisk for combining and a spatula for folding in the ingredients work wonders in this mix.
• Food Processor (optional): If you prefer a smoother butternut squash puree, a food processor will cut down on preparation time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned butternut squash puree instead of fresh?

Yes, canned butternut squash puree works well! Just make sure it’s pure and without any added sugar or spices for the best results.

How do I know when the bread is done baking?

You can test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs clinging to it, the bread is ready.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the eggs with flaxseed or chia seed eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use a plant-based oil and maple syrup.

What can I serve with this bread?

This bread pairs wonderfully with cream cheese, butter, or even a sweet maple glaze. It also goes well with fruit preserves or a drizzle of honey.

Conclusion

The Maple Walnut Butternut Squash Bread with Cinnamon Walnut Streusel isn’t just a recipe; it’s a journey into the comforting flavors of fall. Its unique blend of ingredients promises to create unforgettable moments during your baking adventures. I encourage you to try this flavorful bread and savor the warmth it brings to your kitchen. Feel free to share your experiences and adaptations in the comments below; I would love to hear how it turned out for you! This delightful bread is not just about satisfying your taste buds, but creating joyful memories with family and friends.

Decadent Maple Walnut Butternut Squash Bread with Streusel

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• Author: souzanfood
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 1 loaf 1x

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Description

Indulge in decadent butternut squash bread topped with maple walnut streusel A perfect blend of flavors for your fall baking adventures

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 cups butternut squash puree

1 cup maple syrup

1/2 cup vegetable oil

2 large eggs

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup walnuts, chopped

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)

Chocolate chips (optional)

Light dusting of powdered sugar (for garnish)

Maple glaze (for garnish)

Fresh apple slices (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

If you haven’t done so already, roast and blend the butternut squash until smooth. Let it cool slightly before using.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the butternut squash puree, maple syrup, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined.

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined.

Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring even distribution throughout the batter.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the batter.

Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, slice the bread and serve it as is or with your favorite spread.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• minutes: 10
• Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 250 calories
• Sugar: 15 grams
• Fat: 10 grams
• Saturated Fat: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 38 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Protein: 4 grams