Delightful Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake for Cozy Mornings

I still remember the first time I made my Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake—it was one of those weekends when the chaos of school projects, sports practices, and grocery trips had me craving a bit of homemade comfort. I spotted the recipe tucked in an old cookbook and thought, “Why not?” Butternut squash and apple together sounded like the kind of warm, cozy combo perfect for bringing my family together around the kitchen table.

When I pulled that moist, fragrant Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake from the oven, I was instantly hooked. The sweet and spicy scent filled the house, creating a kind of calm in our usually noisy morning shuffle. My kids, usually rushing past breakfast, asked for seconds. My husband declared it a new favorite, and that instant family reaction sealed it as a fall staple in our home. It felt like sunshine on a plate on those crisp autumn mornings.

What makes this Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake such a comfort food win for me is that it feeds everyone without the stress—no complicated steps or fancy ingredients, just wholesome simplicity. If you’re juggling everything from school drop-offs to soccer games, this cake offers a smooth way to sneak in nutritious butternut squash alongside sweet apples and cozy spices.

Over time, I learned a lot about how to tweak this autumn coffee cake recipe to suit my family’s tastes and schedule. For example, swapping out some ingredients for quick fixes or turning it into a breakfast cake I can slice and pack for busy school mornings. It’s been a little reassurance that good food doesn’t need to be complicated to bring that comfort we all crave.

Fellow busy moms, if you’re looking for a comforting, uncomplicated fall breakfast idea, this Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake might just be your new go-to. It’s all about making cozy moments with your family, even in the middle of your hectic day. Let me walk you through how simple it really is to bring this cake to life in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Ingredients for Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake laid out

Here’s the straightforward ingredient list for your soon-to-be favorite Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake. Trust me, I keep it simple because busy moms need comfort without complexity!

  • 1 ½ cups butternut squash, roasted and mashed (This adds moisture and subtle sweetness)
  • 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (I like crisp apples for a sweet-tart balance)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (You can swap half with whole wheat for a heartier feel)
  • 1 cup sugar (Brown sugar works beautifully to boost warmth and depth)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon (Essential for that autumn coffee cake vibe)
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (No worries if you don’t have butter—melted coconut oil works too!)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt (Keeps the cake moist; I sometimes switch to Greek yogurt for tang)
  • Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (My family loves this added crunch!)

You can find these simple ingredients at your regular grocery store. To keep things budget-friendly, I often use whatever squash is on sale or pick up apples in bulk when they’re at their peak.

Pro tip: Roast your butternut squash ahead of time or grab pre-peeled from the produce section to save precious kitchen minutes. My family gets extra comfort when I add those nuts—they add texture kids surprisingly love!

This Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake proves delicious doesn’t mean pricey or fancy—just thoughtful ingredients and a little time.

Let’s Make it Happen!

Ready to transform these simple ingredients into a moist, fragrant Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake? I’ll guide you through it step-by-step, just like we’re cooking side-by-side.

  1. Prepare your squash and apples: If you haven’t already, roast your butternut squash at 400°F until tender, about 25-30 mins. While that cools, peel and dice your apples. This combo of squash and apple creates the perfect moist coffee cake with squash texture.
  2. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F. Grease or line a 9×13 baking pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. Cream butter & eggs: In another bowl, beat softened butter until creamy, then add eggs one by one. Stir in vanilla extract.
  5. Add squash, yogurt, and apples: Fold your mashed butternut squash and sour cream (or yogurt) into the butter mixture. Carefully fold in the diced apples.
  6. Combine wet & dry: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mix, stirring gently until just combined—watch for lumps but don’t overmix or the cake will be dense.
  7. Add nuts: If you’re using nuts for extra family-friendly texture, fold them in here.
  8. Bake: Pour your Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Cool & savor: Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before slicing. Your kitchen should smell like autumn magic by now!

In my busy kitchen, this comforting Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake usually takes about an hour from start to finish, including prep and baking. While it’s in the oven, I take the perfect time to prep lunchbox items or tidy the kitchen.

Don’t worry if your cake looks a little rustic or the apples sink slightly—it’s all part of the charm that makes it feel homemade and authentic. Over the years, that moist coffee cake with squash has taught me how subtle ingredients can pack a flavor punch without fuss.

For a comforting twist, I sometimes add a simple glaze or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking. Learn from my kitchen stories and make it your own cozy creation!

If you love this moist, autumn coffee cake recipe, you might also enjoy trying a Butternut Squash Cake with Cream Cheese Icing for a sweet twist from a fellow comfort food lover’s blog, Pastry Affair.

How We Love to Eat This!

Our family finds so much joy in sharing Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake for breakfast or as an afternoon pick-me-up. The kids devour this comforting Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake when I serve it alongside fresh fruit or a cup of warm milk—simple sides that balance the spiced sweetness perfectly.

It’s also a favorite for weekend brunches or holiday mornings when we want a cozy, homemade feel. I like pairing it with mild yogurt or a dollop of apple butter for extra fall vibes.

Presentation can make all the difference, especially for picky eaters. I often slice the cake into small squares, serving it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, which instantly makes it feel special.

Leftovers? We always have some! This cake reheats beautifully in the microwave or toaster oven, making it a go-to for rushed breakfasts on school mornings.

Seasonally, I’ve tried swapping the apples for pears or adding a crunchy streusel topping. Each variation is a fresh twist that keeps my family excited. Friends are often surprised by how flavorful and moist a coffee cake with squash can be. If your kids love this hearty recipe, they’ll go crazy for the apple fritter cake we enjoy, which you can find right here on MommiesMore.

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Q: Is this Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake filling enough for growing kids?
A: Absolutely! The squash gives it a hearty texture, and apples add natural sweetness. It’s a cozy, satisfying autumn coffee cake recipe that keeps energy up for busy school days.

Q: What if my picky eater won’t try this Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake?
A: Try cutting it into fun shapes or serving it with a favorite dip like yogurt or nut butter. Sometimes small presentation changes make all the difference. Our family used to hesitate, but now it’s a beloved fall breakfast idea.

Q: Can I meal prep this Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake for busy weeks ahead?
A: Yes! It keeps well covered in the fridge for up to four days and freezes beautifully in portions. Just thaw and reheat for a quick, comforting breakfast.

Q: Can I substitute pumpkin for the butternut squash?
A: You can, but it changes the flavor slightly. Butternut squash has a mild sweetness that pairs differently with apples. If you love butternut squash desserts, stick with it for the full flavor experience.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Not as written. You can try a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure it’s suitable for baking. It may affect texture slightly.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes, swap butter for coconut oil and yogurt for a plant-based alternative. This moist coffee cake with squash adjusts well to those swaps.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store your Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake in an airtight container at room temp for a day or two. Longer storage goes in the fridge or freezer.

If you enjoy this warm treat, check out another favorite, Salted Caramel Apple Pie Cheesecake, also perfect for cozy gatherings.

Final Thoughts:

Freshly sliced Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake on a plate

This Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake has become a cornerstone of our family comfort food. It hits the sweet spot between flavor and simplicity, giving us those little moments of peace around shared meals.

My Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake Comfort Hacks:
– Always roast the squash ahead for smooth, natural sweetness.
– Use brown sugar for that comforting depth in every bite.
– Add chopped nuts for texture that my family always requests.

We’ve tried variations, like pear and ginger spice or topping with a light cream cheese drizzle for extra indulgence. My husband loves it plain with coffee, while the kids enjoy it with a bit of yogurt or apple butter.

Remember, this recipe is your canvas for simple comfort food success—make it your own way! I hope this Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake brings you the same warmth and satisfaction it brings to our table.

For more cozy autumn inspirations, visit MommiesMore and try the Caramel Apple Upside Down Cake to surprise your family with variety.

Keep cooking, fellow comfort seekers. You’re doing amazing!

Also check additional cozy recipes like Winter Squash Coffee Cake With A Ginger Caramel Sauce and Butternut Squash Chocolate Chip Bundt Cake for delicious variations on squash coffee cakes.

Print

Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake

This moist and flavorful Butternut Squash-Apple Coffee Cake combines tender squash and sweet apples with warm spices for a perfect fall-inspired treat.

  • Author: Beatriz
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 65 minutes
  • Yield: 9 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup cooked and mashed butternut squash
  • 1 large apple, peeled and diced
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
  3. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with granulated sugar and brown sugar until creamy. Add oil, vanilla extract, and sour cream, mixing well.
  4. Fold in the mashed butternut squash and diced apple.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. If desired, fold in the chopped nuts.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  8. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

For an extra touch, serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream.

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