Panera Bread’s fall squash soup is a beloved seasonal dish that fans eagerly await each autumn. Its rich, creamy texture and warm flavors make it a comforting staple for cool weather. This guide will help you recreate the copycat Panera Bread fall squash soup recipe in your own kitchen, ensuring you can enjoy its delicious taste all year round. With simple, wholesome ingredients like butternut squash, pumpkin, and a blend of warm spices, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying.
Why Make Panera Bread’s Fall Squash Soup at Home?
Creating a homemade version of Panera’s squash soup allows you to control the ingredients, customize flavors, and save money. Additionally, making your own soup means it’s fresher and healthier, without unnecessary preservatives or excessive sodium. This is especially important for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. Moreover, it’s a great way to incorporate seasonal produce into your diet, ensuring you get the most out of the ingredients’ flavor and nutrition. For a deeper understanding of the benefits of using seasonal produce like squash, read this article by the Mayo Clinic.
When you make your own fall squash soup, you can also modify the recipe to suit your taste. Perhaps you prefer a thicker, creamier texture, or you may want to add more heat by including extra spices. Whatever your preference, this recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to adapt it in numerous ways.
Ingredients Needed for Panera Bread’s Fall Squash Soup
Here’s a detailed list of the ingredients you’ll need to prepare the soup:
| Ingredient | Amount | Health Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Butternut Squash | 4 cups, cubed | High in vitamins A and C, promotes healthy skin and vision. |
| Pumpkin Puree | 1 cup | Rich in antioxidants and fiber, supports heart health. |
| Yellow Onion | 1 medium, chopped | Adds a subtle sweetness and beneficial nutrients. |
| Carrot | 1 medium, chopped | Packed with beta-carotene, supports vision health. |
| Vegetable Broth | 4 cups | Serves as a base for the soup, low in calories, enhances flavor. |
| Heavy Cream | 1/2 cup | Adds creaminess, can be substituted with coconut milk for a vegan option. |
| Maple Syrup | 2 tbsp | Natural sweetener that balances the savory flavors. |
| Curry Powder | 1/2 tsp | Provides warmth and depth to the soup’s flavor profile. |
| Nutmeg and Cinnamon | 1/4 tsp each | Enhances the autumnal essence of the soup with warm spices. |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp | Healthy fat, great for sautéing vegetables, and adds a smooth mouthfeel. |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these steps to recreate the Panera Bread fall squash soup recipe:
Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables
- Peel and cube the butternut squash and carrots. Chop the yellow onion into small pieces.
- Toss the squash, carrots, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Roast the vegetables in the oven at 400°F for 25-30 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized. Roasting enhances the sweetness of the vegetables and gives the soup a deeper flavor profile.
Step 2: Cooking the Soup Base
- In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat and sauté the roasted vegetables for about 5 minutes.
- Add the pumpkin puree, vegetable broth, maple syrup, and spices (curry powder, nutmeg, cinnamon).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Blending and Final Touches
- Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Be cautious when blending hot liquids—start on a low setting and gradually increase speed.
- Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk (for a vegan version).
- Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or a splash of maple syrup if needed.
Pro Tip: For a thicker consistency, you can add more butternut squash or reduce the amount of vegetable broth. You can also add a small potato to the roasting step, which will make the soup even creamier when blended.
Nutritional Information of Panera Bread’s Fall Squash Soup
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Total Fat | 11 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 29 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugars | 10 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
This soup is not only delicious but also offers a wealth of nutritional benefits. The butternut squash and pumpkin are rich in antioxidants and fiber, while the vegetable broth adds essential nutrients without extra calories. Furthermore, the use of curry powder, nutmeg, and cinnamon enhances the soup’s nutritional value by providing anti-inflammatory properties.
Health Benefits of Butternut Squash and Pumpkin
- Rich in Antioxidants: Both butternut squash and pumpkin are high in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. This helps support immune function and eye health.
- High in Fiber: These vegetables are excellent sources of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
- Low in Calories: Despite their rich, sweet flavor, both squash and pumpkin are relatively low in calories, making them ideal for weight management.
- Supports Heart Health: The presence of potassium and magnesium in these vegetables contributes to heart health by helping to regulate blood pressure and maintain healthy blood vessels.
For additional healthy recipes using squash, check out this guide on crispy air fryer acorn squash.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
To make your fall squash soup even more special, try the following variations:
1. Spicy Autumn Squash Soup
- Add 1/4 tsp of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup for an extra kick.
- Pair it with a crusty bread to balance the heat. For more delicious pairings, see this article on easy chicken pot pie recipes.
2. Coconut Curry Squash Soup
- Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and increase the amount of curry powder to 1 tsp.
- Garnish with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
3. Protein-Packed Squash Soup
- Add 1/2 cup of cooked lentils or chickpeas to the soup for a boost of protein.
- Top with roasted pumpkin seeds for added texture and a pleasant crunch.
FAQs About Panera Bread’s Fall Squash Soup Recipe
1. Can I freeze the fall squash soup?
Yes, this soup freezes exceptionally well. Store it in an airtight container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
2. How can I make the soup vegan?
To make this soup vegan, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond cream. You can also replace the butter with olive oil during the roasting step.
3. What are some good side dishes to serve with squash soup?
The soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich. For more pairing ideas, check out this recipe for garlic parmesan chicken pasta.
4. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply add all ingredients (except the cream) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Blend, stir in the cream, and serve.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Store for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
For more soup recipes that are perfect for fall, visit this article on cozy fall chicken recipes.
Final Thoughts
Creating a homemade version of Panera Bread’s fall squash soup is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. You get to enjoy the comforting flavors of autumn right in your kitchen. Feel free to experiment with different spices, additions, and presentation styles. If you love comfort food recipes like this one, you might also enjoy this article on the best Lipton onion soup meatloaf recipe.
Additional Tips for Recipe Success
- Roast the Vegetables: Always roast your vegetables before adding them to the soup. This step enhances their natural sweetness and caramelization, resulting in a more complex and flavorful soup.
- Blend in Batches: If using a regular blender, blend the soup in small batches to avoid spills and ensure a smoother consistency.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices according to your preference. Add more cinnamon and nutmeg for a sweeter soup, or increase the curry powder for a spicier version.
Enjoy your homemade Panera Bread fall squash soup!