Spiced Pecan-Topped Creamy Squash Bake
Too Good To Be Squash!
🕒 Cook Time: 50 minutes
🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 1 hour
🥕 Recipe Category: Vegetable
🔑 Keywords: Winter, < 60 Mins
🍽️ Servings: 6
Description:
This delightful recipe, affectionately named “Too Good To Be Squash!”, is a cherished gem passed down from a friend, with a personal touch of added spice to elevate the flavors. It’s important to note that while the prep time doesn’t include cooking the squash itself, once you have 2 cups of cooked squash ready, the dish comes together swiftly.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1/3 cup |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Evaporated milk | 1 can (12 oz) |
| Vanilla | 1 teaspoon |
| Pumpkin pie spice | 1/2 – 1 teaspoon |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Pecans | 1/4 cup |
| Pumpkin pie spice (for topping) | 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon |
| Butter (for topping) | 2 tablespoons |
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 377.1
- Total Fat: 20.9g
- Saturated Fat: 10.8g
- Cholesterol: 114.6mg
- Sodium: 197.8mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 44.6g
- Fiber: 1.1g
- Sugar: 35.5g
- Protein: 5g
Recipe Instructions:
-
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). -
Prepare Squash:
Start by cooking your squash until tender, then mash or puree it until you have 2 cups of cooked squash ready. -
Prepare Batter:
In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. -
Incorporate Wet Ingredients:
Beat in the eggs, evaporated milk, vanilla, and 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice (adjust to your taste) until well combined. -
Combine with Squash:
Add the mashed/pureed squash to the bowl and mix thoroughly using a beater or whisk. -
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the mixture into an 11 x 7 x 2 inch Pyrex dish, spreading it evenly. -
Bake the Squash Mixture:
Place the dish in the preheated oven, uncovered, and bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the mixture is set. -
Prepare the Topping:
While the squash is baking, prepare the topping by combining the brown sugar, pecans, and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice in a small bowl. -
Add Topping:
Once the initial baking time is up and the squash is set, sprinkle the prepared topping evenly over the top of the squash mixture. -
Finish Baking:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and slightly caramelized. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This squash dish is best enjoyed warm, offering a comforting blend of sweetness and spice that’s perfect for winter or any cozy occasion!
Tips for Success:
- Choosing Squash: Opt for a sweet variety of squash such as butternut or acorn for best results.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to suit your preference for a more or less pronounced spiced flavor.
- Storage: Any leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion:
“Too Good To Be Squash!” is not just a recipe, but a testament to the joys of simple, comforting flavors that bring warmth to any table. Whether you’re looking to add a new side dish to your holiday spread or simply craving a taste of nostalgia, this dish promises to deliver. Enjoy the creamy texture, the hint of spice, and the delightful crunch of pecans in every bite. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection, shared and cherished with family and friends alike.
