Panera Autumn Squash Soup
This Copycat Panera Autumn Squash Soup is a creamy, comforting soup that’s perfect for chilly fall and winter days. Made with butternut squash, carrots, shallots, apple juice, pumpkin puree, and cream cheese, it has a delicious balance of savory, warm, and slightly sweet flavors.
Autumn Squash Soup is a favorite seasonal soup at Panera, and making it at home means you can enjoy those cozy fall flavors whenever you want. The toasted pepitas on top add a delicious crunch and are incredibly easy to make.
If you’re looking for more cozy soup recipes, try creamy chicken tortilla soup, creamy poblano corn chowder, or an easy four-ingredient potato soup.
How to Make Panera Autumn Squash Soup
1. Cook the Vegetables: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the butternut squash, carrots, and shallots. Season with salt and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Add the Spices: Stir in the ginger and curry powder. Cook for another minute, or until the spices become fragrant.
3. Simmer: Add the broth, apple juice, and brown sugar. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add Pumpkin & Cream Cheese: Stir in the pumpkin puree and cream cheese until combined.
5. Blend the Soup: If using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. Season with additional salt if needed.
6. Using a Blender: Let the soup cool slightly before transferring it to a blender. Fill the blender no more than three-quarters full and work in batches if necessary. Blend until smooth, leaving the lid slightly open to allow steam to escape.
7. Serve: Pour the soup into bowls and top with toasted pepitas.
Tips
An immersion blender is especially useful for creamy soups like this one. You can blend the soup directly in the pot without waiting for it to cool, which makes the process faster and reduces cleanup.
Blend until the soup reaches your preferred consistency. For an extra-smooth and creamy texture, continue blending until no chunks remain.
What to Serve with Autumn Squash Soup
- Crusty bread
- Grilled cheese sandwich
- BLT sandwich
- BLT salad
How to Toast Pepitas
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the pepitas on a medium baking sheet and toss them with oil, chili powder, and a little salt.
Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the pepitas are golden and crunchy. Allow them to cool completely before using them as a topping for the soup.
FAQ
What does Panera Autumn Squash Soup taste like?
It has a creamy squash flavor with warm spices and a subtle sweetness from the apple juice and brown sugar.
How long does Autumn Squash Soup last in the refrigerator?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 4–5 days.
