Whispers of Winter: A Cozy Butternut Squash Soup Shooter Recipe

Allergens

Dairy (if using heavy cream)

Ingredients

• 1 large butternut squash (about 4 pounds)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/3 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Fresh sage leaves for garnish
• Ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg for dusting
• Mini shot glasses or small cups for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, remove the seeds, and place it on a baking sheet cut side down. Roast for 45 60 minutes, or until the flesh is tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from oven and let cool.
3. In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook for 5 7 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
5. Scoop out the cooked butternut squash flesh and add it to the pot with the onion and garlic. Stir well to combine.
6. Add the vegetable or chicken broth, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
7. Allow the soup to cool slightly before pureeing it in a blender or using an immersion blender until smooth and creamy. If desired, gently stir in the heavy cream to make the soup even richer and more luxurious. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully pour the hot soup into mini shot glasses or small cups, filling them about two thirds full to allow for expansion when heated.
9. Place the filled shooters on a baking sheet and bake for 12 15 minutes, or until they are hot throughout. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
10. For serving, garnish each shooter with a sage leaf, dust with ground cinnamon and nutmeg, and enjoy your cozy butternut squash soup shooters while they're still warm!

Chef’s Insight

The combination of spices, cream, and the warmth of the soup evokes a sense of nostalgia that is perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings.

Notes

This appetizer recipe can be easily doubled or tripled to accommodate a larger crowd.