Acorn Squash Soup Recipe

Acorn squash soup is one of those dishes that truly captures the essence of autumn. It’s a warm, comforting bowl of velvety smoothness that’s rich in flavor and texture, perfect for cozying up on a crisp fall day. What makes acorn squash so special is its natural sweetness, which is a beautiful balance to savory and savory elements you can add to the soup. This dish brings together the unique flavors of roasted acorn squash with a blend of herbs, spices, and a touch of creaminess.

What’s more, acorn squash is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. It’s high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a wholesome choice for a healthy meal. Plus, it’s easy to make, and you can adapt it to suit your dietary preferences. Whether you like your soup rich and creamy or more brothy, acorn squash can take on any variation and shine through as the star ingredient.

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your fall cooking game or need a hearty soup to serve on chilly evenings, this acorn squash soup is a must-try. Let’s dive right into the recipe.

Acorn Squash Soup Recipe

Here’s an easy-to-follow recipe that captures all the beauty of acorn squash in a soup. It’s designed to give you the ultimate cozy experience without requiring hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients Needed

To make this delicious and hearty acorn squash soup, you’ll need:

• 2 medium acorn squashes – These are the base of the soup, and their naturally sweet flavor is key.
• 1 large onion – For savory depth and a subtle sweetness when sautéed.
• 2 cloves of garlic – Adds an aromatic undertone to the soup.
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you prefer) – The liquid base for the soup, adding richness and body.
• 1 cup of heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free option) – To add a silky, creamy texture to the soup.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – For roasting the squash and sautéing the vegetables.
• 1 tsp ground cumin – A warm, earthy spice that complements the sweetness of the squash.
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon – Adds a subtle hint of sweetness and warmth.
• Salt and pepper to taste – For balancing flavors and seasoning.
• Fresh thyme – A little sprinkle of thyme will give the soup a fragrant herby note.
• Optional: a pinch of nutmeg – For an extra layer of warmth and spice.

Cooking Instructions

This soup is relatively easy to make. Follow these steps to create a silky-smooth bowl of autumn goodness:

1. Roast The Acorn Squash

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Cut the acorn squashes in half, remove the seeds, and drizzle with olive oil. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Roast the squash for about 30-40 minutes until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork. Once done, let them cool slightly before scooping out the flesh.

2. Prepare The Soup Base

   • While the squash roasts, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
   • Add the cumin, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using) to the onions and garlic. Stir for another minute to allow the spices to bloom.

3. Combine Squash And Broth

   • Scoop the roasted acorn squash flesh into the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir everything together.
   • Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. Blend The Soup

   • Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer the mixture in batches to a regular blender. Blend until the soup is completely smooth.
   • Once blended, return the soup to low heat and stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk). Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.

5. Final Touches

   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Garnish with fresh thyme and a drizzle of cream or olive oil before serving.

6. Serve And Enjoy

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy the creamy, comforting warmth with a slice of crusty bread.

Ingredient Insights

• Acorn Squash: Acorn squash is a winter squash variety known for its small, round shape and dark green skin, often with a hint of orange. The flesh inside is golden, sweet, and tender, making it ideal for soups, purées, and baking. It’s a great source of vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants, adding both flavor and nutritional value to your dish.
• Vegetable Broth: The broth serves as the foundation for this soup. Using vegetable broth brings a savory element that balances the natural sweetness of the squash. If you prefer a more robust flavor, you can use chicken broth, which will add depth and umami.
• Cumin and Cinnamon: These two spices are the heart of the soup’s flavor profile. Cumin offers warmth and earthiness, while cinnamon adds a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the squash’s natural sugars.
• Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk: The heavy cream creates a classic, indulgent texture, while coconut milk provides a dairy-free, slightly exotic twist. Both options offer a velvety smooth finish to the soup.

Expert Tips

• Roast Your Squash Properly: Roasting the squash until it’s tender and caramelized will enhance its natural sweetness and give the soup more depth. You can even let it roast a bit longer for a more caramelized flavor, but make sure it doesn’t burn.
• Use an Immersion Blender: If you have one, an immersion blender works wonders here. It lets you blend the soup directly in the pot, saving you the hassle of transferring hot liquids between containers.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker or thinner soup, simply adjust the amount of broth or cream. Adding more broth will give you a more liquid soup, while more cream will make it richer and thicker.
• Enhance with Toppings: To add texture and flavor, try topping your soup with roasted pumpkin seeds, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, or even a sprinkle of cheese.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Acorn Squash Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during the sautéing step to introduce some heat and create a spicy contrast to the sweetness of the squash.
• Apple and Acorn Squash Soup: To add a fruity sweetness, throw in a peeled and chopped apple while the onions and garlic sauté. The apple will soften as the soup simmers, blending perfectly with the squash.
• Herbed Acorn Squash Soup: For an extra layer of herbal flavor, stir in fresh rosemary or sage during the simmering phase. These herbs pair beautifully with squash and elevate the taste.
• Vegan Acorn Squash Soup: Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk, and ensure your broth is plant-based. You can also drizzle some extra virgin olive oil for richness.

Final Words

This acorn squash soup recipe is incredibly versatile, comforting, and full of flavor. With just a few ingredients and simple techniques, you can create a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying. The natural sweetness of the squash blends beautifully with aromatic spices, creating a harmony of flavors that’s perfect for cooler weather. Whether you’re looking for a dish to impress your guests or simply a comforting meal to enjoy alone, this soup will never disappoint.