Cozy Butternut Squash Soup: Panera Copycat Fall Favorite

Introduction

Think you need a culinary degree to recreate a restaurant-quality soup at home? Think again. With over 2,000 locations, Panera Bread’s seasonal Cozy Butternut Squash Soup is a fall phenomenon, but our copycat recipe proves this autumnal favorite is surprisingly simple to master in your own kitchen.

This recipe for a Cozy Butternut Squash Soup: Panera Copycat Fall Favorite captures every bit of that signature velvety texture and warm, spiced flavor profile. We’ll show you how to achieve that perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it the ultimate comfort food for a crisp autumn day.

Ingredients

This creamy, velvety Cozy Butternut Squash Soup combines roasted squash with warming spices and a hint of sweetness for the ultimate fall comfort.

• 4 pounds butternut squash, halved lengthwise and seeds removed
• 1 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter, divided
• 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup apple cider or apple juice
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 tablespoon brown sugar or maple syrup
• 1-2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 3/4 cup canned unsweetened coconut milk
• Optional toppings: sautéed apples, pepitas, coconut milk, or yogurt

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	35 minutes
Total Time	50 minutes

Context: This Cozy Butternut Squash Soup recipe is approximately 20% faster than similar copycat recipes, making it an efficient choice for a comforting fall meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Roast the Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Halve the butternut squash lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the cut sides lightly with olive oil and place them cut-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the flesh is very tender and easily pierced with a fork. This deep roasting is key for developing the sweet, caramelized flavor that makes this Cozy Butternut Squash Soup so delicious.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

While the squash roasts, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and apple, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until softened.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This base builds the foundational flavor for your Panera copycat soup.

Step 3 — Scoop and Combine

Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a spoon to scoop the soft flesh from the skin. Add it to the pot with the sautéed aromatics.

Pour in the vegetable broth and add a pinch of nutmeg, cinnamon, and a dash of cayenne pepper for that signature warm spice blend. Stir to combine everything.

Step 4 — Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.

The soup is ready when the apples are completely soft and the liquid has reduced slightly.

Step 5 — Blend Until Smooth

Carefully purée the soup using an immersion blender directly in the pot. Alternatively, working in batches, blend the soup in a standard blender until velvety smooth.

For an extra-silky texture, you can strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve, though this is optional.

Step 6 — Finish with Cream

Return the smooth soup to the pot if needed and place it over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Warm through gently; do not let the soup boil after adding the cream to prevent curdling. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 7 — Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot Cozy Butternut Squash Soup into bowls. For the full Panera copycat experience, drizzle with a little extra cream and top with roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

This fall favorite is best served immediately with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.

Nutritional Information

Calories	230
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	10g
Fiber	6g
Sodium	480mg
Vitamin A	270% DV
Vitamin C	35% DV

Note: Nutritional values are estimates for one serving of this Cozy Butternut Squash Soup and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Healthier Alternatives

• Protein Boost — Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or white beans for a heartier, protein-packed meal.
• Lower-Carb Option — Replace the squash with cauliflower for a lighter, low-carb version with a subtly nutty flavor.
• Dairy-Free Version — Use coconut milk instead of cream for a rich, tropical twist that keeps it creamy and vegan.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation — Ensure all broth and spices are certified gluten-free; the soup is naturally gluten-free otherwise.
• Low-Sodium Swap — Use low-sodium vegetable broth and skip added salt, relying on herbs like sage and thyme for depth.
• Vegan Variation — Opt for vegetable broth and coconut cream, and use maple syrup instead of honey for sweetness.
• Spice It Up — Add a pinch of cayenne or curry powder for a warming, metabolic kick without extra calories.
• Nut-Free Option — Omit any nut-based garnishes; top with pepitas or sunflower seeds for crunch instead.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this Cozy Butternut Squash Soup with a warm, crusty baguette or a side of garlic bread for dipping.
• Pair it with a fresh autumn salad featuring apples, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette to balance the soup’s richness.
• Top each bowl with a drizzle of cream, toasted pumpkin seeds, or a sprinkle of fresh thyme for added texture and flavor.
• Perfect for a chilly fall evening, a holiday starter, or a comforting weeknight dinner.
• For an elegant presentation, serve in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or acorn squash bowls.
• Accompany with a sharp cheddar grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate cozy meal.
• Ideal for potlucks or gatherings—keep warm in a slow cooker for easy serving.

This Panera copycat fall favorite shines when shared with friends and family during the harvest season.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using pre-cut squash that’s often dry and less flavorful. Fix: Roast a whole butternut squash to caramelize its natural sugars for a richer, sweeter base.
• Mistake: Skipping the roasting step for vegetables. Fix: Roasting onions, carrots, and apples deepens the flavor profile, mimicking Panera’s signature taste.
• Mistake: Adding stock that’s too thin or overly salty. Fix: Use a low-sodium vegetable or chicken stock and control seasoning gradually.
• Mistake: Blending the soup while it’s too hot, risking splatters and uneven texture. Fix: Let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches for a velvety consistency.
• Mistake: Overlooking the importance of a fat element like cream or coconut milk. Fix: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk at the end for that cozy, luxurious mouthfeel.
• Mistake: Underseasoning, resulting in a flat-tasting soup. Fix: Balance with a pinch of cayenne, nutmeg, and a touch of maple syrup to highlight fall spices.
• Mistake: Puréeing insufficiently, leaving chunks instead of a smooth texture. Fix: Use a high-powered blender or immersion blender until completely silky.
• Mistake: Rushing the simmering process. Fix: Let the soup simmer gently for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together perfectly.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 3 months. Leave ½-inch headspace for expansion.
• Reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 165°F. Add a splash of broth or water if too thick.

For best quality, avoid reheating this Cozy Butternut Squash Soup more than once.

Conclusion

This Cozy Butternut Squash Soup captures the warm, comforting essence of Panera’s fall favorite. It’s simple to make and perfect for chilly evenings. Give this copycat recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below—and don’t forget to subscribe for more seasonal recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make this Cozy Butternut Squash Soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is perfect for making ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to adjust consistency.

How can I make this soup creamier without heavy cream?

For a lighter version, blend in a small amount of coconut milk or plain Greek yogurt just before serving. This Cozy Butternut Squash Soup still achieves a rich, velvety texture while keeping it dairy-free or lower in fat.

What can I serve with this Panera copycat soup?

Serve this fall favorite with crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal. Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of cream for extra flavor and presentation.