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Fall Vibes: Homemade Acorn Squash Quick Bread

When fall arrives, the air turns crisp, the leaves start to change, and kitchens fill with the warm aroma of spiced baked goods. This Homemade Acorn Squash Quick Bread is the perfect recipe to capture the cozy, comforting flavors of the season. Made with roasted acorn squash, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this bread is moist, sweet, and subtly earthy. It’s a wonderful alternative to traditional pumpkin bread, showcasing another autumn favorite that’s just as versatile and delicious. With its soft crumb and fragrant spices, this bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it the ultimate fall treat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Fresh Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked and mashed acorn squash roasted or steamed
  • 2 eggs
Dry Ingredients
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter melted
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls (large and medium)
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • 9×5-inch loaf pan
  • Parchment paper (optional)
  • Cooling rack
  • Hand or stand mixer (optional, for smoother mixing)

Method
 

Step 1: Prep the Squash
  1. Roast acorn squash halves at 400°F (200°C) for 30–40 minutes until tender.
  2. Scoop flesh, mash until smooth, and measure 1 cup.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vegetable oil, melted butter, vanilla, and mashed acorn squash until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry
  1. Gradually add dry ingredients into wet mixture.
  2. Stir until just combined (do not overmix).
Step 6: Bake
  1. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
  2. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
  1. Let bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
  2. Transfer to a wire rack and cool completely before slicing.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Room Temperature: Store wrapped in foil or plastic for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps well in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Microwave slices for 15–20 seconds or toast lightly.
🥄 Variations
Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
Chocolate Twist: Stir in ½ cup chocolate chips.
Citrus Zing: Add 1 teaspoon orange zest for brightness.
Glazed Top: Drizzle with vanilla or cream cheese glaze after cooling.
Mini Loaves or Muffins: Divide batter into muffin tins (bake 18–20 minutes).
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use canned acorn squash?
Yes, but homemade roasted squash gives better flavor.
2. Can I substitute pumpkin puree?
Yes, pumpkin works just as well.
3. Do I need to peel acorn squash before roasting?
No, roast with skin on and scoop out the flesh after.
4. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
5. How do I know the bread is done?
Insert a toothpick — it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
6. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, reduce by ¼–½ cup without affecting texture.
7. Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, though it may give a stronger flavor.
8. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, replace butter with coconut oil or more vegetable oil.
9. Why is my bread dense?
Overmixing the batter can make it heavy. Stir just until combined.
10. What’s the best way to serve it?
Warm with butter, cream cheese spread, or a drizzle of honey.
🏁 Conclusion
This Fall Vibes: Homemade Acorn Squash Quick Bread is the perfect way to embrace autumn flavors. With warm spices, tender acorn squash, and a moist crumb, it’s a cozy recipe you’ll want to bake again and again.
It’s simple to prepare, versatile enough for add-ins, and perfect for breakfast, dessert, or afternoon snacking. Pair it with coffee, tea, or even hot apple cider, and enjoy the comforting taste of fall in every bite.