Butternut Squash Apple Bake (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 680 g butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and diced into small cubes
02 - 2 gala apples, peeled, cored, and diced

→ Seasonings and Sweeteners

03 - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ Enhancements

08 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
09 - 1/4 cup raisins
10 - 1/4 cup dried cranberries
11 - 1/4 cup pecans or walnuts

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 200°C.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine diced butternut squash, diced apples, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and brown sugar. Stir to ensure even coating.
03 - Sprinkle the salt and black pepper over the mixture and mix again thoroughly.
04 - Transfer the mixture to a lidded baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
05 - Dot the surface with butter pieces, cover the dish, and bake for 15 minutes.
06 - Remove the dish from the oven; add raisins, dried cranberries, and pecans. Use tongs or a large spoon to toss thoroughly. Cover and return to oven for an additional 15 minutes.
07 - Once the squash is tender and golden, remove from the oven, stir, and serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - Cooking times may vary by oven; check the tenderness of the squash before serving, and extend baking if necessary.
02 - Honey may be substituted for brown sugar; acorn squash or any sweet baking apple may be used in place of the specified varieties.
03 - For slow cooker preparation, combine all ingredients and cook on high for 90 minutes to 2 hours or on low for around 3 hours, checking for doneness.