Name: Brown Butter and Butternut Loaf Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter; 3 large eggs; 1 1/2 cups sugar; 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar; 2 cups puréed roasted butternut squash; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 2 teaspoons baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (preferably freshly ground); 5 tablespoons salted butter; 1 1/2 cups confectioners sugar, plus more if needed; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 5 reviews

There is something truly magical about the rich, nutty depth of browned butter paired with the cozy sweetness of roasted squash, and that is exactly what you’ll find in this Brown Butter and Butternut Loaf. This loaf is a comforting hug in bread form—moist, flavorful, and beautifully spiced with warm nutmeg. The Brown Butter and Butternut Loaf is not just any quick bread—it’s an elevated treat that showcases the lusciousness of browned butter both in the batter and the indulgent icing, making each bite irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or sharing it at a gathering, this loaf is bound to become one of your all-time favorites.

Brown Butter and Butternut Loaf Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Every component, from the golden browned butter to the velvety roasted butternut squash, brings something special to the table.

Unsalted butter: Essential for browning to develop that signature nutty aroma and taste.
Large eggs: Help create a tender crumb and light texture for the loaf.
Sugar: Combines both granulated and light brown for balanced sweetness and moisture.
Roasted butternut squash purée: Provides natural sweetness, moisture, and a beautiful orange hue.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of the loaf, giving structure and stability.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors, making the loaf taste even richer.
Baking powder and baking soda: Work together to give the loaf a lovely rise and airy texture.
Ground nutmeg: Adds a warm and slightly spicy note, perfectly complementing the squash and butter.
Salted butter for icing: Creates a luscious glaze that’s creamy with a hint of saltiness to cut the sweetness.
Confectioners sugar: Sweetens and thickens the brown butter icing to an irresistible spread.
Vanilla extract: Adds aromatic depth and ultimate flavor harmony to the icing.

How to Make Brown Butter and Butternut Loaf

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two 9-inch loaf pans generously. Properly greased pans ensure that your Brown Butter and Butternut Loaf slides out easily once baked, preserving its beautiful shape and crust.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a large frying pan over medium-high heat, melt your unsalted butter. As it melts, it will foam and bubble—don’t look away now! Reduce the heat to medium and stir continuously, scraping the golden browned bits from the bottom of the pan. After about 7 minutes, your butter will be a deep golden brown with a rich, nutty aroma. Allow it to cool for around 10 minutes so it’s warm but not hot before adding it to your batter.

Step 3: Whip Eggs and Sugars

In the bowl of a standing mixer, beat together the eggs, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar on high speed until the mixture lightens in color and becomes fluffy—this is key to creating that tender crumb. This step is often called an “eggedosis,” a joyful tradition from Norway that brings plenty of air into your batter.

Step 4: Incorporate Browned Butter and Squash Purée

Slowly add the cooled browned butter to your egg mixture and continue beating until it becomes smooth and well combined. Then, add in your puréed roasted butternut squash, beating until your batter is uniform and velvety. This is where the loaf really starts to get its gorgeous moistness and rich flavor.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and the fragrant ground nutmeg. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients, mixing on low just until everything is incorporated—overmixing can make the loaf too dense, so take care!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from pans and let cool completely before moving on to the decadent icing step.

Step 7: Make the Brown Butter Icing

To create the irresistible glaze, brown the butter just like before (this time it will take a bit less time due to the smaller amount) and let it cool. Transfer it to a mixing bowl, then sift in the confectioners sugar to avoid lumps. Add vanilla extract, and whisk everything together until you reach a smooth, spreadable consistency. Slather this luscious icing over your cooled loaves and allow it to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

How to Serve Brown Butter and Butternut Loaf

Garnishes

While the Brown Butter and Butternut Loaf is delicious on its own, feel free to add some simple garnishes that compliment the flavors. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch, or a light dusting of extra confectioners sugar gives it an elegant, snowy finish. Fresh sage leaves also pair wonderfully, adding an herbal hint that elevates each bite.

Side Dishes

This loaf pairs beautifully with breakfast spreads like creamy yogurt or a smear of mascarpone and honey. For an afternoon treat, enjoy it alongside a warm cup of chai or coffee—the spices and nutty butter in the loaf harmonize beautifully with aromatic drinks. And if you’re serving it at a cozy brunch, don’t forget a side of fresh fruit or simple greens to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress guests? Turn your Brown Butter and Butternut Loaf into a stunning dessert by layering slices with whipped cream and caramelized pears or apples. Alternatively, cut into thick slices and lightly toast them, then top with a dollop of cream cheese frosting for an indulgent breakfast twist. You can even cube the loaf into bite-sized pieces, perfect for a savory-sweet bread pudding or bread and butter pudding with a butternut twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Brown Butter and Butternut Loaf will keep wonderfully at room temperature for a couple of days if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. For best freshness, store in the refrigerator if you plan to keep it longer. The icing may firm up a bit but will soften again quickly when brought to room temperature.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this delicious loaf later, you can freeze it successfully. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-friendly bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked freshness, warm slices gently in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture intact. The warm loaf paired with cool icing is a heavenly way to enjoy every last crumb.

FAQs

Can I use canned butternut squash instead of roasting fresh?

Absolutely! Canned butternut squash purée can be a convenient substitute, but be sure to drain any excess liquid to prevent a soggy batter. Roasting fresh squash gives a deeper, caramelized flavor but canned works well in a pinch.

What if I don’t have a standing mixer?

No worries! You can use a hand mixer or even whisk vigorously by hand. Just make sure to beat the eggs and sugars long enough to lighten the mixture properly—this step is key for a fluffy, tender loaf.

Is the Brown Butter and Butternut Loaf suitable for freezing after icing?

It’s best to freeze the loaf without icing, then add the brown butter icing after thawing. The icing can become grainy or separate if frozen. This keeps your glaze smooth and fresh.

Can I substitute nutmeg with another spice?

Yes, cinnamon or allspice can be lovely alternatives. Nutmeg offers a specific warmth, but these spices complement the butternut squash and browned butter beautifully too.

How long can I keep the iced loaf at room temperature?

Generally, the iced Brown Butter and Butternut Loaf can safely be kept at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigeration is recommended to keep the icing fresh and prevent spoilage.

Final Thoughts

Once you try making this Brown Butter and Butternut Loaf, it’s hard not to fall in love with the balance of nutty, sweet, and warmly spiced flavors it offers. It feels like a special occasion treat that’s simple enough for everyday baking, and it’s guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it. So grab your butter and squash, and dive in—you’re about to create a new classic for your kitchen!