Copykat Panera Bread Autumn Squash Soup

Some days motherhood is a full-blown circus with popcorn and chaos included. Yesterday was exactly that kind of day. My youngest decided the cat needed a bath, my middle child used peanut butter as finger paint, and my teen declared she needed a snack “for emotional reasons.” By the time dinner rolled around, I needed something comforting, warm, and easy to make. That’s when I remembered my favorite Copykat Panera Bread Autumn Squash Soup. The smell of roasted squash, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg filled the kitchen instantly, and suddenly life felt a little more manageable. This Copykat Panera Bread Autumn Squash Soup has been my secret weapon for busy weeknights, lazy fall afternoons, and moments when you just need a cozy hug in a bowl.

I’ve made everything from Buttercup Squash Soup to Acorn Squash Soup, but nothing hits the mark quite like this Copykat Panera Bread Autumn Squash Soup. It’s creamy, rich, and comforting without feeling heavy, and it tastes like the perfect blend of Panera Autumn Squash Soup Recipe and home-cooked love.

Why You’ll Love This Copykat Panera Bread Autumn Squash Soup

This Copykat Panera Bread Autumn Squash Soup is creamy, dreamy, and practically magical in a pot. You’ll love it because:

• It’s made with simple ingredients that are easy to find, even during the busy school week.
  
• It doubles as Butter Squash Soup, Pumpkin Squash Soup, or Yellow Squash Soup depending on what you have on hand.
  
• Perfect for Fall Soups And Stews rotations or any fall-themed meal.
  
• Healthy, cozy, and kid-approved, making it one of the best Easy Soup Recipes for busy moms.
  
• You can make a big batch and refrigerate or freeze for later without losing flavor.
  

This Copykat Panera Bread Autumn Squash Soup is exactly the kind of fall comfort food that hits every craving for warmth, richness, and a hint of seasonal magic.

Ingredients

• 1 medium buttercup squash, peeled and cubed
  
• 1 medium acorn squash, peeled and cubed
  
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  
• 1 medium onion, chopped
  
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  
• 1 teaspoon salt
  
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
  
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  
• ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk
  
• Optional toppings: roasted pumpkin seeds, fresh parsley, croutons
  

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
  
• Cutting board and knife
  
• Measuring cups and spoons
  
• Wooden spoon or spatula
  
• Blender or immersion blender
  
• Ladle
  

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1:

Prep the squash, Peel, deseed, and cube the buttercup and acorn squash.

Step 2:

Sauté aromatics, Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot and sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.

Step 3:

Add squash and spices, Stir in the cubed squash, salt, pepper, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Cook for a few minutes to combine flavors.

Step 4:

Add broth and simmer, Pour in the broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until squash is tender.

Step 5:

Blend until smooth, Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until creamy and velvety.

Step 6:

Add cream and adjust seasoning, Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk and taste to adjust seasoning. Heat through gently.

Step 7:

Serve and enjoy, Ladle into bowls and top with pumpkin seeds, parsley, or croutons for extra texture.

What to Serve With

This Copykat Panera Bread Autumn Squash Soup pairs perfectly with comforting and fun sides for the whole family. Serve it alongside warm Potato Sourdough Bread, spooky and playful Mummy Hotdogs, or gooey, kid-approved Crab Grilled Cheese for a meal that feels both cozy and festive.

Mom-Style Tips

• Missing a type of squash? Any fall squash like pumpkin or kabocha will work.
  
• Short on time? Roast squash in the microwave for 5-7 minutes before adding to the pot.
  
• Want a healthier version? Use low-fat milk or skip the cream.
  
• Make a big batch and freeze individual portions for easy lunches or dinners.
  
• Add a pinch of cayenne if you want a subtle warmth for the adults.
  

FAQ

Can I make this Copykat Panera Bread Autumn Squash Soup ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Use olive oil instead of butter and coconut milk or any plant-based cream instead of dairy.

How thick should the soup be?

It should be creamy but pourable. Add extra broth if you prefer a thinner consistency.

Can I use a slow cooker?

Yes. Add all ingredients except cream to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Blend before serving and stir in cream at the end.

Can I use just one type of squash?

Yes. Buttercup or acorn squash works alone, but the combination gives the richest flavor.

Soup That Feels Like Fall in a Bowl

Some days motherhood is messy, chaotic, and full of little surprises. But a warm bowl of this Copykat Panera Bread Autumn Squash Soup can turn a stressful day into a cozy moment of calm. It’s comforting, flavorful, and easy enough to make even when life feels like a circus. Pour yourself a bowl, wrap your hands around it, and remember that even small moments of comfort make all the difference.