Panera Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

Why Make the Panera Butternut Squash Soup Recipe at Home?

Making a copycat version of Panera’s butternut squash soup at home offers numerous advantages, whether you’re aiming for convenience, customization, or cost savings. Below are some of the most compelling reasons to recreate this dish in your own kitchen:

1. Customization: One of the main benefits of making Panera’s butternut squash soup at home is the flexibility to modify ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Do you prefer a vegan version? Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use maple syrup instead of honey. Want a little more spice? Increase the amount of curry powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

2. Cost Savings: As delicious as Panera’s soup is, the price can add up if you’re buying it frequently. By making it at home, you can produce a large batch for a fraction of the cost, and store it for multiple meals.

3. Freshness: When you make this soup at home, you can ensure that every ingredient is fresh, from the butternut squash to the spices. There’s something special about the aroma of roasting butternut squash wafting through your kitchen that just can’t be replicated by picking up a pre-made soup.

This soup is ideal for serving alongside other fall-inspired dishes. A great complement to the soup would be brown butter honey roasted carrots with garlic, which add an earthy and rich flavor contrast.

Panera Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

The magic of this soup comes from the combination of simple ingredients, each adding its own element to the overall flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Butternut squash: Roasting it intensifies the natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor of the soup.
• Pumpkin puree: This contributes to the rich, creamy texture while enhancing the fall flavors.
• Apple juice: The slight tartness of the apple juice balances out the sweetness of the squash and pumpkin.
• Vegetable broth: This provides a flavorful base for the soup.
• Honey or maple syrup: Adds a gentle sweetness that complements the spices.
• Heavy cream or coconut cream: For that signature smoothness. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative.
• Cinnamon, curry powder, and nutmeg: These spices infuse the soup with warmth and a hint of spice, perfect for autumn.

If you’re looking for inspiration for a cozy fall dessert to pair with your soup, you could try making pumpkin cake, which carries forward the same seasonal themes into your dessert course.

If you’re looking for ways to substitute ingredients to make the soup vegan, Minimalist Baker offers an excellent guide on vegan substitutes.

Step-by-Step to Making Panera Butternut Squash Soup

1. Roasting the Butternut Squash

To get started, preheat your oven to 400°F. Begin by peeling and cubing the butternut squash, then spread it evenly on a baking sheet. Drizzle the squash with olive oil, and season it with salt and pepper. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and begins to caramelize around the edges. This step is crucial because roasting enhances the natural sweetness and gives the soup a deeper flavor profile.

You can experiment with adding a sprinkle of brown sugar or cinnamon before roasting to further enhance the sweetness of the squash.

2. Preparing the Soup Base

In a large pot, combine the roasted butternut squash with pumpkin puree, apple juice, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 15 minutes to let the flavors combine. During this time, add the cinnamon, curry powder, and nutmeg, stirring well to distribute the spices throughout the soup.

3. Blending the Soup

Once the soup has simmered and the ingredients have melded together, it’s time to blend it into a silky smooth texture. An immersion blender works well for this, allowing you to blend the soup right in the pot. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Just be careful, as the soup will be hot.

4. Adding the Cream

After blending, return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream for a dairy-free version). This step is where the soup takes on its signature creamy texture. Simmer the soup for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the cream is fully incorporated.

5. Seasoning and Garnishing

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. For garnishing, consider toasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of extra cream. A slice of crusty bread or homemade biscuits can also make a great accompaniment.

Tips for Elevating Your Panera Butternut Squash Soup

Here are a few expert tips to take your soup from good to great:

• Roasting is key: Roasting the butternut squash enhances its natural sweetness, creating a deeper flavor. For tips on roasting, check out The Kitchn’s guide to roasting squash.
• Add extra spices: If you prefer a bolder flavor, increase the amount of curry powder or cinnamon, or even add a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Use homemade broth: If you have the time, making your own vegetable broth can add even more depth to the soup.

For a meal that’s completely inspired by fall flavors, serve this soup with a side of cornbread, which offers a hearty and slightly sweet contrast to the rich and creamy soup.

Variations and Substitutions ForPanera Butternut Squash Soup

One of the best things about making this soup at home is the ability to tailor it to your preferences. Here are some variations you can try:

1. Vegan Version

For a vegan take on this soup, simply substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream and use maple syrup instead of honey. The coconut cream adds a subtle, nutty sweetness that complements the roasted squash beautifully.

2. Gluten-Free Option

This soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth. Be sure to check your broth packaging to confirm it’s certified gluten-free.

3. Spicy Variation

If you enjoy a bit of heat in your soups, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. These spices add warmth and a slight kick without overpowering the sweetness of the squash.

Storage and Reheating

One of the great things about this soup is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to eat it, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Freezing: This soup also freezes beautifully. After letting it cool completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it on the stovetop.

If you need a bit more inspiration for side dishes, consider making a batch of corn fritters, which pair perfectly with the creamy texture of the soup.

Ideal Pairings for Your Panera Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

This rich, creamy soup pairs well with a variety of sides, from light salads to heartier bread options. Here are some ideas:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty sourdough or a warm roll can help soak up the rich flavors of the soup.
• Salads: For a lighter side, a simple salad with apples, walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the sweetness of the soup.
• Biscuits: Try making homemade biscuits for a warm, flaky addition that contrasts the creamy soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use Frozen Butternut Squash?

Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash if you’re pressed for time. While fresh squash provides a better texture and flavor, frozen squash is a convenient alternative.

2. How Can I Make My Soup Thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of vegetable broth or add an extra portion of roasted butternut squash. You can also blend in a potato for extra creaminess.

3. Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! This soup stores well and actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld together. Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve.

4. What Garnishes Work Best with Butternut Squash Soup?

Toasted pumpkin seeds, a swirl of cream, or even crispy bacon bits make excellent garnishes. They provide a nice contrast in texture and add visual appeal to the dish.

Conclusion

This Panera butternut squash soup recipe brings all the warmth and coziness of fall into your home. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this restaurant favorite and enjoy it whenever the craving strikes. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the suggested variations, this soup is sure to become a staple in your home kitchen.

Pair it with homemade biscuits or cornbread, and you’ll have a perfect fall meal that is sure to impress.