Autumn just got tastier with this Panera Autumn Squash Soup copycat recipe. I love how this soup captures the cozy flavors of the season, blending sweet squash with savory spices. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on chilly evenings.
Recreating this favorite from Panera is easier than you might think. With a few simple ingredients and some kitchen magic, you can enjoy the rich, creamy texture and delightful taste right at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your fall menu.
Give it a try and savor the comforting goodness of homemade Autumn Squash Soup. You’ll be amazed at how closely it mirrors the original, making those restaurant nights a thing of the past.
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| 2 tbsp | Olive oil | |
| 1 large | Onion | Chopped |
| 3 cloves | Garlic | Minced |
| 4 cups | Butternut squash | Peeled and cubed |
| 4 cups | Vegetable broth | |
| 1 tsp | Ground cumin | |
| 1/2 tsp | Ground cinnamon | |
| 1/4 tsp | Ground nutmeg | |
| 1 tsp | Salt | To taste |
| 1/2 tsp | Black pepper | To taste |
| 1/2 cup | Heavy cream |
Tools and Equipment
To create my copycat Panera Autumn Squash Soup, you’ll need the following tools and equipment:
- Large Soup Pot
Perfect for sautéing vegetables and simmering the soup.
- Chef’s Knife
Essential for chopping onions, garlic, and squash efficiently.
- Cutting Board
Provides a safe and stable surface for all your prep work.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients for the best flavor.
- Immersion Blender
Ideal for achieving a smooth and creamy texture directly in the pot.
- Ladle
Handy for serving the soup without any spills.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot.
Having these tools on hand will make the cooking process seamless and enjoyable, allowing you to focus on perfecting each step of this delicious autumn soup.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing this Autumn Squash Soup ahead of time not only saves you time on busy days but also enhances the flavors, making the soup even more delicious when you serve it. Here’s how I like to make it ahead:
Refrigerating
- Cook the Soup: Follow the recipe steps to prepare the soup. Once it’s fully cooked and blended to a smooth consistency, let it cool to room temperature.
- Store Properly: Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers. I use glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers to store the soup.
- Refrigerate: Place the containers in the refrigerator. The soup can be stored for up to three days.
- Reheat: When ready to serve, pour the desired amount into a pot. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.
Freezing
- Prepare for Freezing: After the soup has cooled, divide it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space at the top for expansion.
- Label and Freeze: Label each container with the date and contents. Freeze for up to three months.
- Thawing: Transfer the frozen soup to the refrigerator at least 24 hours before you plan to reheat it.
- Reheat: Pour the thawed soup into a pot. Warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Adjust the thickness with additional broth or water if needed.
Tips for Best Results
- Enhance Flavors: Allowing the soup to sit overnight in the refrigerator helps the spices meld beautifully, deepening the overall flavor.
- Avoid Over-Thinning: When reheating, add liquid gradually to maintain the soup’s creamy texture without making it too thin.
- Fresh Cream Addition: For an extra touch of creaminess, consider stirring in a fresh splash of heavy cream just before serving.
By following these make-ahead instructions, you can enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of Autumn Squash Soup with minimal effort, perfect for any day of the week.
Directions
Recreating Panera’s Autumn Squash Soup is simple and rewarding. Follow these steps to enjoy a cozy bowl of homemade goodness.
Prep
- Prepare the Vegetables. I peel and dice one large butternut squash into 1-inch cubes. Then, I finely chop one medium onion and mince two cloves of garlic.
- Measure the Spices. I measure out one teaspoon of ground cumin, half a teaspoon each of ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg.
Cook
- Sauté the Aromatics. I heat two tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. I add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, I stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Squash. I add the diced butternut squash to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Add Broth and Spices. I pour in four cups of vegetable broth and add the cumin, cinnamon, and nutmeg. I season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer the Soup. I bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. I cover and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
- Blend the Soup. I use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, I carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
- Finish with Cream. I return the pureed soup to the pot (if using a stand blender) and stir in half a cup of heavy cream. I heat the soup gently until warmed through.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve. I taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. I ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Serving Suggestions
I love enhancing my Panera Autumn Squash Soup with thoughtful touches that elevate both flavor and presentation. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve this comforting dish:
Garnishes
- Cream Drizzle: Add a swirl of heavy cream or coconut cream to create a beautiful contrast and extra creaminess.
- Toasted Pumpkin Seeds: Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh thyme, sage, or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Croutons: Top with homemade croutons seasoned with garlic and herbs for added texture.
Pairings
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or sourdough bread to dip into the soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pair with a classic grilled cheese for a comforting, hearty meal.
- Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich soup beautifully.
Presentation Tips
- Serving Bowls: Use deep, wide bowls to showcase the soup’s vibrant color and creamy texture.
- Temperature: Ensure the soup is piping hot when serving to enhance its comforting qualities.
- Side Dishes: Include a small side of roasted vegetables or a light appetizer to complete the meal.
Beverage Pairings
| Beverage | Description |
|---|---|
| Apple Cider | Warm apple cider with a hint of cinnamon |
| White Wine | A crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs well |
| Herbal Tea | Chamomile or peppermint tea for a soothing touch |
By incorporating these serving suggestions, you can transform a simple bowl of Autumn Squash Soup into a memorable dining experience that delights all your senses.
Tips and Variations
As a chef passionate about cooking, grilling, and baking, I’ve found a few ways to elevate this Panera Autumn Squash Soup copycat recipe. Here are some of my favorite tips and variations to make this soup truly your own.
Roasting the Squash
Roasting the butternut squash before adding it to the soup intensifies its natural sweetness and adds a lovely depth of flavor. Simply toss the diced squash with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread it on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized. This extra step enhances the soup’s richness and complexity.
Adjusting the Spice Blend
Feel free to customize the spice blend to suit your taste. For a bit more warmth, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. If you prefer a sweeter note, increase the amount of cinnamon or add a touch of maple syrup. Experimenting with different spices allows you to tailor the soup to your personal preference.
Adding a Creamy Twist
To make the soup even creamier, consider incorporating coconut milk or almond milk as a dairy-free alternative. Stir in about 1/2 cup of your preferred milk substitute along with the heavy cream. This not only makes the soup suitable for those with dairy sensitivities but also adds a subtle, complementary flavor.
Incorporating Additional Vegetables
Enhance the nutritional profile and flavor by adding other vegetables. Carrots, sweet potatoes, or celery can be sautéed with the onions and garlic for added texture and sweetness. These additions create a more hearty and robust soup, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Protein Boost
For a more substantial meal, add a protein boost. Grilled chicken, crispy bacon bits, or sautéed mushrooms can be stirred into the soup just before serving. These options add layers of flavor and make the soup more filling, turning it into a complete dish.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs and Crunch
Elevate the presentation and taste by experimenting with different garnishes. Fresh sage or thyme leaves add an aromatic touch, while roasted pumpkin seeds or toasted pepitas provide a delightful crunch. A drizzle of flavored oil, such as chili or garlic-infused olive oil, can also enhance both the look and flavor of the soup.
Make It Vegan
To create a vegan version of this soup, simply omit the heavy cream and substitute it with coconut cream or cashew cream. Ensure that your vegetable broth is free from animal products. These adjustments maintain the soup’s creamy texture while adhering to a vegan diet.
Storage and Reheating Tips
While the make-ahead instructions cover basic storage, here are a couple of extra tips. When freezing the soup, leave some space in the container to allow for expansion. To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to preserve its creamy consistency.
Conclusion
Making Panera’s Autumn Squash Soup at home has been a rewarding experience. I love how easy it is to bring those warm flavors into my kitchen. Whether you’re prepping it ahead or enjoying it fresh it’s a perfect addition to your autumn menu. I hope you give this copycat recipe a try and enjoy every comforting spoonful.
