There is something irresistibly comforting about this Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie, Toasted Pecans & Hot Honey Recipe that makes it a standout dish you’ll want to revisit time and time again. The sweet, nutty butternut squash caramelized to golden perfection pairs beautifully with luscious melting Brie, while crunchy toasted pecans add texture and a warm, spicy drizzle of hot honey brings everything together with a tantalizing kick. It’s an absolute showstopper for weeknight dinners or holiday sides, effortlessly combining sweet, savory, and spicy elements into one spectacular bite.

butternut squash peeled and cubed in bright orange cubes, small white chunks of creamy Brie cheese with smooth texture, roughly chopped toasted pecans in warm brown tones, small glass bowl with golden amber hot honey drizzle visible, fresh green thyme leaves scattered delicately, a drizzle of maple syrup in warm amber hues, small heap of cinnamon powder in light brown, tiny piles of coarse salt and cracked black peppercorns, a drizzle of olive oil with reflective sheen, all ingredients arranged neatly and spaced evenly on a clean white surface to emphasize vibrant colors and varied textures, natural soft lighting highlighting the glossy honey and creamy Brie, shadows softly diffused, minimalistic styling with a fresh and inviting feel, overhead shot, top down view, flat lay photography, professional food styling --ar 1:1 --q 2 --s 750 --v 6.1

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe is in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays an essential role. From the velvety butternut squash to the creamy Brie, toasted pecans, and that irresistible hot honey drizzle, every item contributes flavor, texture, or color to create a vibrant and satisfying dish.

Butternut squash (4 cups, peeled and cubed): The naturally sweet base that caramelizes beautifully when roasted.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps to crisp and brown the squash while adding richness.
Maple syrup (1 tablespoon): Infuses the squash with extra sweetness and depth during roasting.
Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth that enhances the squash’s natural flavor.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just a hint of spice for complexity.
Brie cheese (6 ounces, cut into chunks): Delivers creamy, melty luxury that complements the sweet squash perfectly.
Toasted pecans (1/2 cup, roughly chopped): Provide crunchy texture and a nutty contrast.
Hot honey (2 tablespoons): A sweet and spicy drizzle that finishes the dish with delightful heat.
Fresh thyme leaves (optional): For a fragrant herbaceous garnish that brightens the plate.

How to Make Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie, Toasted Pecans & Hot Honey Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Roast the Butternut Squash

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F—a perfect temperature for caramelizing your squash to tender, golden perfection. Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This simple seasoning blend lets the natural sweetness shine while adding layers of warm, comforting flavors. Spread the squash evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure each piece roasts beautifully. Roast for about 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until you see those gorgeous caramelized edges and can easily pierce the cubes with a fork.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

While your squash roasts, grab a dry skillet and toast the pecans over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes. Keep stirring or shaking the pan frequently, so they toast evenly and release their nutty fragrance without burning. Toasted pecans add an essential crunch and a deep nutty flavor that perfectly complements the creamy cheese and sweet squash.

Step 3: Assemble with Brie and Hot Honey

Once your squash is beautifully roasted, transfer it to a serving dish while it’s still hot. Scatter the Brie chunks over the top and allow the residual heat to gently melt the cheese, creating small pockets of creamy goodness throughout the dish. Next, sprinkle the toasted pecans evenly and drizzle with your vibrant hot honey for that unforgettable sweet and spicy zing. If you like, garnish the dish with fresh thyme leaves for a pop of green and subtle herbal notes that tie everything together.

How to Serve Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie, Toasted Pecans & Hot Honey Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh thyme or even a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh rosemary brings a lovely herbal aroma that contrasts beautifully with the warm, sweet flavors. For an extra pop of color and a slight tang, a handful of pomegranate seeds or a drizzle of balsamic glaze also work wonders.

Side Dishes

This dish shines as a side at holiday dinners but also pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or pork, making any weeknight meal feel extra special. For a vegetarian feast, serve it alongside quinoa or a vibrant green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering this Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie, Toasted Pecans & Hot Honey Recipe over a bed of peppery arugula for added texture and freshness. Another twist is to stuff the mixture inside puff pastry squares for an impressive appetizer or holiday party treat that’s bursting with flavor and gorgeous golden crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors intensify after resting, though the Brie might firm up a bit, making reheating important for that melt-in-your-mouth sensation.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh due to the delicate texture of Brie and squash, but you can freeze the roasted squash separately without cheese or nuts for up to 3 months. Thaw thoroughly before reheating and add fresh Brie and pecans after warming.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F until heated through and the Brie softens again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the cheese grainy and the pecans lose their crunch.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of squash for this recipe?

Absolutely! While butternut squash offers a natural sweetness and smooth texture, you could swap in delicata or kabocha squash for a similar comforting flavor and great roasting results.

Is there a substitute for Brie cheese?

If Brie is not available, Camembert or a mild triple-cream cheese works well, providing that creamy melt you’re aiming for. For a firmer texture, small pieces of fresh mozzarella can be an option, too.

How spicy is the hot honey? Can I adjust it?

The heat level depends on your choice of red pepper flakes. If you prefer milder spice, reduce the amount or omit the flakes altogether. The honey will still offer a lovely sweetness that pairs perfectly with the squash and cheese.

Can I make the hot honey at home? How?

Definitely! Simply warm 1/4 cup honey with 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes on low heat for 5 to 10 minutes, then let it steep to infuse the spice. Strain out the flakes if you want a smoother drizzle.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it an ideal side dish for small gatherings or family dinners. You can easily double the ingredients for larger groups.

Final Thoughts

This Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie, Toasted Pecans & Hot Honey Recipe is one of those delightful dishes that feels both indulgent and wholesome at once. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you create layers of flavor and texture that will brighten any meal and impress anyone you share it with. I encourage you to try it soon and experience the magic of sweet, savory, creamy, and spicy all in one comforting bite.

Caramelized Butternut Squash with Brie, Toasted Pecans & Hot Honey Recipe