Butternut squash isn’t just for soups and side dishes—it also works surprisingly well in desserts. These recipes use it in all kinds of sweet treats, from cookies and pudding to donuts and brownies. The squash adds a natural sweetness and moist texture, making baked goods soft and flavorful without a lot of fuss.
If you’re looking for something cozy and a little different, these recipes are worth a try.
They’re simple to make, and most are great for sharing or prepping ahead.
1. Butternut Squash Apple Bake
This cozy bake brings together butternut squash and apples with warm spices for a dish that falls somewhere between a dessert and a side. It’s gently sweet, soft, and perfect for colder days. Great with a scoop of yogurt or a little ice cream.
Get the recipe for this butternut squash and apple bake here.
2. Butternut Squash Oatmeal Cookies
These cookies are soft, chewy, and lightly spiced with cinnamon. Butternut squash gives them moisture and a hint of natural sweetness, while the oats add texture. They’re easy to mix up and make a great afternoon snack.
Try these butternut squash oatmeal cookies here.
3. Butternut Squash Pie
This pie has the creamy texture of pumpkin pie but with a slightly different flavor that’s a bit lighter and brighter. The filling is smooth and spiced just right, all in a flaky crust. It’s a solid option for the holiday table or a fall weekend dessert.
Make this butternut squash pie by following the recipe here.
4. Butternut Squash Cookies
These cookies are soft, cakey, and just sweet enough. The butternut squash adds a nice depth of flavor that pairs well with cinnamon and nutmeg. They’re easy to make and perfect with a cup of tea or coffee.
Check out these butternut squash cookies here.
5. Butternut Squash Bread with Brown Sugar Glaze
This quick bread is moist and full of warm fall flavors. The brown sugar glaze on top adds a little extra sweetness and a slight crunch once it sets. It slices well and stays soft for days.
Try this butternut squash bread with glaze here.
6. Fudgy Butternut Squash Brownie
These brownies are rich and chocolatey with a smooth texture from the squash. You wouldn’t guess they include vegetables—just that they’re soft, dense, and deeply fudgy. A good way to bake something sweet with a little twist.
Get the recipe for these fudgy butternut squash brownies here.
7. Butternut Squash Scones
These scones are lightly sweet with a soft, biscuit-like texture. The squash adds moisture while keeping them sturdy enough to hold their shape. Great for breakfast or an afternoon snack, especially with a bit of butter or jam.
Make a batch of these butternut squash scones here.
8. Butternut Squash Pudding
Smooth, creamy, and lightly spiced, this pudding feels cozy and simple. It’s not too sweet, making it a great choice if you want a dessert that feels a bit lighter. Serve it warm or chilled.
Check out this butternut squash pudding here.
9. Healthy Butternut Squash Donuts
These baked donuts are soft, lightly sweet, and full of cinnamon flavor. They use wholesome ingredients but still taste like a treat. Great for breakfast or a mid-morning bite, especially with a warm drink.
Try these healthy butternut squash donuts here.
Final Thoughts
Butternut squash is more versatile than it gets credit for—especially when it comes to sweets. These recipes show how easily it blends into baked goods and desserts, adding moisture, subtle flavor, and a little extra nourishment.
Whether you’re baking for a gathering or just want something cozy to enjoy at home, these treats are worth trying.
They’re simple, satisfying, and bring a fresh take on fall flavors.
