Are you looking for a unique and delicious way to end your meal? Look no further! Yellow squash, often overlooked as a savory ingredient, can be just as sweet and tender when used in desserts. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering yellow squash dessert recipes that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
From classic pound cake to innovative scones, and from traditional pies to creative cupcakes, we’ve got you covered with our selection of sweet and savory yellow squash desserts. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to try something new, these recipes are sure to impress your family and friends. So let’s get started on this culinary journey and discover the world of sweet and scrumptious yellow squash treats!
Yellow Squash Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze
This moist and flavorful pound cake combines the sweetness of yellow squash with a tangy lemon glaze, perfect for a warm-weather dessert or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup cooked and pureed yellow squash
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
4. Stir in cooked yellow squash and lemon juice.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice to make glaze. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Golden Squash Pie with Cinnamon Crust
Savor the warm spices and comforting flavors of this autumnal delight, perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening. This golden squash pie combines the sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, all wrapped in a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Cinnamon for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roast the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet, cut side up, with 1 tablespoon brown sugar and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon. Bake for 45 minutes or until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, granulated sugar, salt, nutmeg, and remaining cinnamon.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with roasted squash mixture and top with egg mixture.
5. Bake for an additional 40-50 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: approximately 1 hour 25 minutes
Buttery Yellow Squash Bread Pudding
This comforting dessert combines the sweetness of yellow squash with the richness of buttery bread, perfect for a cozy evening treat. The addition of spices and eggs creates a moist and flavorful pudding that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale yellow squash bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, sugar, melted butter, and spices; mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs; pour over bread mixture and stir until absorbed.
4. Pour pudding into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Yellow Squash and Carrot Spice Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the natural sweetness of yellow squash and carrots with warm spices, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or as a unique dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated yellow squash (about 1 medium)
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and spices.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Beat in eggs, then stir in grated squash and carrots.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Squash Blondies with Walnuts
Sweet Squash Blondies with Walnuts: A Delicious Twist on Classic Blondies
These moist and flavorful blondies incorporate roasted sweet squash, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of cinnamon to create a unique dessert perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup roasted sweet squash puree (see note)
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
4. Stir in roasted sweet squash puree, egg, vanilla extract, walnuts, and cinnamon.
5. Press the mixture into the prepared baking pan.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted 2 inches from the edge comes out clean.
Note: Roast 1 medium-sized sweet squash (about 2 lbs) at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes, or until tender. Scoop out the flesh and puree it in a blender or food processor until smooth.
Zesty Yellow Squash Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
These moist and flavorful cupcakes are perfect for any occasion. The addition of yellow squash adds a sweet and subtle twist to the classic vanilla cupcake.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup pureed yellow squash
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in pureed yellow squash and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
Yellow Squash Crumble with Oat Topping
This sweet and savory crumble is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of summer. Fresh yellow squash, onions, and herbs are topped with a crunchy oat mixture for a delightful side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium yellow squash, sliced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine squash, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, mix oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
4. Pour the squash mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the oat mixture.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey-Glazed Squash Cookies
Sweet and savory, these Honey-Glazed Squash Cookies are a unique treat that combines the warmth of pumpkin with the comfort of honey. Perfect for a seasonal snack or dessert, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed squash (such as butternut or acorn)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in mashed squash and honey until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Yellow Squash Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream
This classic comfort dessert combines the warmth of yellow squash with the creamy richness of vanilla ice cream, making it a perfect treat for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium yellow squash, sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 vanilla ice cream scoop (per serving)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine squash, sugar, flour, and salt. Cook over medium heat until squash is tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Transfer the squash mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, beaten egg, milk, and heavy cream. Pour the mixture evenly over the squash.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spiced Squash Muffins with Brown Sugar Streusel
Cozy up with a batch of moist and flavorful spiced squash muffins topped with a crunchy brown sugar streusel. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter morning, these muffins are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and mashed butternut squash
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Brown sugar streusel topping (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugars.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Stir until just combined.
4. Fold in mashed squash.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Top with brown sugar streusel topping (recipe below).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Brown Sugar Streusel Topping:
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Mix dry ingredients and cut in butter until crumbly. Sprinkle over muffins before baking.
Yellow Squash Dessert Pancakes with Maple Syrup
These unique pancakes combine the natural sweetness of yellow squash with the richness of maple syrup, creating a delightful dessert for brunch or snack time.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium yellow squash, grated
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add grated squash, egg, milk, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
4. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet or griddle.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges are golden.
6. Flip pancakes and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until cooked through.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caramelized Squash Tart with Almond Crust
Caramelized Squash Tart with Almond Crust: A sweet and savory tart that combines the natural sweetness of roasted squash with a nutty almond crust, perfect for a fall or winter dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized squash (such as butternut or acorn), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss squash with butter, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly coated.
3. Roast squash for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, combine almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and cold butter in a separate bowl. Mix until crumbly.
5. Press crust mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
6. Arrange roasted squash on top of crust.
7. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Yellow Squash Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar
Get ready to surprise your taste buds with these unique and delicious donuts made from yellow squash! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of squash with a crunchy cinnamon sugar coating, making it a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium yellow squash
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. Grate the yellow squash and squeeze out excess moisture.
3. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and nutmeg.
4. Add milk and whisk until smooth. Fold in grated squash.
5. Using a piping bag or spoon, drop donuts into hot oil (about 1/4 cup each).
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
7. Drain donuts on paper towels and toss with cinnamon sugar mixture.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Squash and Apple Upside-Down Cake
This moist cake is a perfect combination of sweet and savory, featuring roasted squash and crispy apples topped with a crunchy brown sugar crust. It’s a unique twist on the classic upside-down cake that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 small butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 large apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Toss squash and apples with brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Arrange the mixture in the prepared baking dish.
4. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool before flipping onto a plate.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Yellow Squash Cheesecake Bars
These creamy bars combine the freshness of yellow squash with the richness of cheesecake, perfect for a warm weather dessert or snack. With only 6 ingredients, you’ll be whipping up these tasty treats in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups yellow squash puree (about 2 medium-sized squash)
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter; stir until combined. Press into prepared pan.
3. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add yellow squash puree and granulated sugar; mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust. Smooth top.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until center is set.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating or serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pumpkin-Squash Pie with Ginger Snap Crust
Pumpkin-Squash Pie with Ginger Snap Crust: A twist on the classic pumpkin pie, this recipe combines roasted squash and pumpkin puree with a crunchy ginger snap crust for a delightful fall dessert.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 cup ginger snap cookies, crushed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
For the filling:
– 2 cups cooked, mashed squash (such as butternut or acorn)
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crushed ginger snaps and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then let cool completely.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together squash, pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
6. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set.
7. Let the pie cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Yellow Squash Bread with Chocolate Chips
Moist yellow squash bread infused with the warmth of chocolate chips – a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup grated yellow squash
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter, eggs, and grated yellow squash; mix until combined.
4. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon-Squash Scones with Honey Drizzle
These flavorful scones combine the warmth of butternut squash with the zing of lemon zest, topped off with a drizzle of sweet honey. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup roasted butternut squash puree
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– Honey for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form.
4. Stir in squash puree, egg, lemon juice, and zest.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Pat into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges or use a biscuit cutter.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your dessert game with these 18 mouth-watering yellow squash recipes! From classic pound cake and pie to creative treats like blondies, cupcakes, and donuts, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in sweet and savory combinations, such as the combination of lemon glaze and buttery pound cake or the crunch of oat topping on a crumble. These innovative dessert ideas will surely impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are easy to make and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.