Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup whole wheat flour (or substitute all-purpose)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup roasted butternut squash purée (mashed smooth)
- ½ cup milk (or buttermilk)
- ⅓ cup olive oil (or melted butter)
- 2 large eggs
Optional
- ½ cup grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar cheese (for extra savory flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bread.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir in the fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary to distribute the herbs evenly.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the roasted butternut squash purée, milk, olive oil, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If using cheese, fold in the grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar to add a savory depth of flavor.
- Transfer to Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Bread: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and avoid crumbs.
Notes
- Roast the butternut squash ahead of time by cutting it in half, baking at 400°F until tender, then scooping and mashing it into a smooth purée.
- Feel free to swap the herbs—sage, chives, or dill work wonderfully for different flavor profiles.
- This bread is freezer-friendly. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish / Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian