There’s nothing quite like the warmth of freshly baked goods filling your home, especially during the holiday season. As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, I find myself drawn to comforting flavors that evoke memories of cozy gatherings. That’s how I discovered the joy of Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits—the perfect addition to any holiday table.
The moment these golden-brown delights emerge from the oven, their buttery aroma melded with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg wraps around you like a warm hug. These biscuits are more than just a side dish; they’re incredibly easy to make and incredibly versatile, elevating everything from turkey sliders to a simple morning breakfast spread.
As you whip up a batch, the sweet, earthy taste of butternut squash shines through, inviting experimentation with other winter squashes or even sweet potatoes. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner or just seeking a comforting bite, this recipe is bound to impress—and leave your guests coming back for seconds. Ready to indulge in these fluffy, spiced wonders? Let’s get baking!
Why are Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits a Must-Try?
Warm aromas fill your kitchen as these biscuits bake, delighting everyone around.
Versatile enough to accompany any meal, they work wonderfully with turkey sliders or just butter and honey.
Simple and quick to make, even novice bakers can achieve fluffy perfection without hassle.
Unique flavor profile with just the right balance of spice, thanks to cinnamon and nutmeg.
Flexible with ingredient swaps—try different squashes or add mix-ins like cranberries!
Crowd-pleaser at holiday gatherings, appealing to both sweet and savory palates.
Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits Ingredients
For the Biscuits
• Butternut Squash – Provides natural sweetness and moisture; can be swapped with acorn squash or sweet potato for variety.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the comforting structure; use gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Powder – Helps leaven the biscuits for that perfect fluffy texture.
• Salt – A must-have to enhance all the delightful flavors.
• Spices (e.g., cinnamon, nutmeg) – Adds warmth and depth, making these Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits truly special.
• Butter – Contributes richness and flakiness; substitute margarine for a dairy-free option.
• Buttermilk – Infuses tang and moisture; substitute with whole milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice if needed.
Optional Mix-Ins
• Dried Cranberries – Add a touch of sweetness and chewiness to balance the spices.
• Chopped Walnuts – Introduce crunch and nuttiness for extra texture in every bite.
How to Make Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your biscuits bake evenly and rise beautifully, creating that perfect golden-brown crust.
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Combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and spices in a large bowl. This dry mix sets the foundation for your biscuits, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed for a burst of flavor in every bite.
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Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The colder the butter, the flakier your biscuits will be, adding to their delightful texture.
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Stir in the cooked and mashed butternut squash gently. This adds natural sweetness and moisture, combining wholesome flavor with the dry ingredients.
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Add the buttermilk and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this makes sure your biscuits stay light and fluffy!
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Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and shape into biscuits of your desired size. Giving them room to rise ensures they don’t touch while baking.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the tops. Keep an eye on them—the aroma will be irresistible!
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Cool the biscuits on a wire rack before serving. This step helps maintain their fluffy interior and keeps them from becoming soggy.
Optional: Serve warm with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey for a cozy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the biscuit dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and combining them with the mashed squash, storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Be sure to keep the cold butter separate until you’re ready to bake, as this ensures they’ll remain flaky. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the buttermilk, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, and bake them as directed. This way, you’ll have warm, fluffy biscuits ready to accompany your holiday feast with just a quick bake, making your meal prep stress-free!
What to Serve with Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits?
Elevate your holiday feast with delightful sides that perfectly accompany these warm, spiced biscuits.
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Savory Turkey Sliders: Perfectly complement the sweetness of the biscuits with juicy turkey, creating a deliciously balanced bite. Try adding cranberry sauce for an unforgivable twist!
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Cranberry Sauce: This tart and sweet condiment cuts through the richness of the biscuits and adds a festive touch to your meal. A perfect topping that brightens every bite.
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Creamy Pumpkin Soup: Serve alongside a bowl of rich, velvety pumpkin soup; the flavors harmonize beautifully, making for a comforting autumn experience.
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Honey Butter: Spread on warm biscuits, this sweet and creamy addition creates a luscious topping that enhances the flavors of the spices in the biscuits.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy texture and earthy taste make them an excellent counterpart to the biscuits, adding a delightful crunch to your plate.
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Maple Glazed Carrots: Adding a pop of color and sweetness, these carrots are a wholesome side that pairs well with the warm flavors of the biscuits during your holiday gathering.
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Apple Cider: Complement your meal with a glass of warm apple cider; its sweet and spicy flavors echo the biscuits’ warmth, enhancing your festive dining experience.
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Pumpkin Spice Coffee: For a cozy finish, enjoy a warm cup of pumpkin spice coffee. The rich flavors beautifully echo the warm spices in the biscuits, wrapping up your meal perfectly.
How to Store and Freeze Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits
Fridge: Store leftover biscuits in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while retaining their lovely texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze biscuits individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then placed in an airtight bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To refresh frozen biscuits, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy the delightful warmth of Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits!
Make-Ahead: These biscuits can also be prepared a day in advance. Simply bake, cool, and store as indicated above for a stress-free holiday feast.
Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make the recipe your own!
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Winter Squash Swap: Replace butternut squash with sugar pumpkin or acorn squash for a different flavor profile. Each offers a unique sweetness that pairs beautifully with spices.
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Sweet Potato Twist: For a subtly different flavor, swap in mashed sweet potatoes. This adds a creamy texture while maintaining the delightful sweetness.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these biscuits accessible for those with gluten sensitivities. They will still turn out fluffy and delicious!
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Add Dried Cranberries: Stir in some dried cranberries for a pop of color and a sweet-tart flavor contrast, making each bite a little surprise.
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Chopped Walnuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts into the dough for added crunch and nuttiness. It enhances the texture and provides a delightful bite.
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Spice it Up: Boost the spices by adding ginger or allspice for a bolder flavor. This twist brings warmth and depth, perfect for cozy gatherings.
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Savory Garlic Biscuits: Mix in minced garlic or garlic powder for a savory alternative. These biscuits become a fantastic side for savory dishes or soups.
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Herbed Delight: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic version that complements holiday feasts beautifully. The freshness of herbs balances the sweetness wonderfully!
Expert Tips for Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the buttermilk into the dough until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense biscuits instead of delightful fluffy Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits.
• Chill the Butter: For best results, ensure your butter is cold before cutting it in. This helps create flaky layers for a lighter texture.
• Use Fresh Spices: Whenever possible, use freshly grated spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. They provide a more vibrant flavor compared to pre-ground versions.
• Check For Doneness: Every oven is different, so start checking your biscuits a few minutes before the timer goes off. They should be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly touched.
• Experiment with Squash: Feel free to swap butternut squash with any winter squash or sweet potato to change up the flavor and maintain that comforting sweetness.
• Storing Tips: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving to revive their freshness.
Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best butternut squash?
Absolutely! Look for butternut squash that feels heavy for its size, with a smooth, creamy tan skin. Avoid any squash with dark spots or blemishes, as this may indicate spoilage. A slightly firm texture means you’re on the right track, ensuring sweet and moist results in your biscuits.
What is the best way to store leftover biscuits?
Very easy! To keep your Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also wrap them in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in the container—this helps retain moisture and prevents them from drying out.
Can I freeze these biscuits, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your biscuits, it’s best to let them cool completely first. Then, individually wrap each biscuit in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe bag. You can store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, don’t worry! This can happen if the butternut squash was very moist. Simply sprinkle in a little extra flour—about a tablespoon at a time—while gently folding the mixture until it reaches a workable consistency. Remember, the less you handle it, the fluffier your biscuits will be!
Are Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! To make these biscuits gluten-free, just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or follow the specific guidelines for moisture in the mix, as it can help mimic that perfect biscuit texture.
Can I use a different type of squash?
Very much so! You can swap out the butternut squash for sugar pumpkin, acorn squash, or even sweet potato. Each will bring its unique flavor profile, adding a delightful twist to your Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
Spiced Butternut Squash Biscuits for Cozy Holiday Feasts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and spices in a large bowl.
- Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the cooked and mashed butternut squash gently.
- Add the buttermilk and mix until just combined.
- Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and shape into biscuits.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool the biscuits on a wire rack before serving.