Butternut squash is great in sweets and savories. If you are out of pumpkin & sweet potatoes or just want a change of ingredients this is a nice diversion. All three have a similar flavor & texture profile when added to baked goods.In this recipe I combine many seasonal flavors. The cardamom and cinnamon mixed with butternut squash give an interesting holiday twist to a traditional banana bread….or cake.

This cake is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas breakfast, brunch or dessert. Top with some freshly whipped cream & chocolate sauce for an extra decadent treat!

Fresh Benefits

In this cake we find two Superfoods. I refer to these powerful foods in virtually every post. Our healthy, yummy diets should mainly consist of these dynamo’s.

Superfoods are healthy whole foods that pack in loads of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.  Fresh fruits, veggies, whole grains and lean proteins sustainably grown are our best bets.  To maintain the health benefits of these Superfoods it is best to cook them in health conscious ways…..steaming, broiling, braising and sautéing are clean, healthy preparations.  Deep frying, not.  In a future post I will get a list going that speaks about Superfoods in greater detail.

For more information on Superfoods: Livestrong: What is a Superfood?

Butternut Squash

This is an antioxidant powerhouse that helps boost the immunity and it has anti-inflammatory properties. Squash can be used in sweets and savories. From soups, baked goods, pastas, chilis, casseroles and salads……try it in your favorite dishes! To read more about the health benefits of Butternut Squash: HealthCastle: Squash Wholeliving: Health Benefits and Recipes

Bananas

This Superfood is high in the mineral potassium and is a good source of the soluble fiber pectin. Bananas have the vitamin B6, which is one of the elements that helps regulate mood and metabolism. Here is some more info: Livestrong: 5 Things You Need to Know About Bananas

Yes, bananas are sweet, but they too can be used in your desserts and savories. They are great to eat out of hand, but they can also be used in curries, baked goods, and my favorite breakfast: Stuffed French Toast!

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Fresh Variations

• Want to make smaller cakes or muffins?  Click the following link to learn more about baking times and temperature variations according to pan size: Joy of Baking: Pan Sizes
• Add a handful of floured nuts or dried fruit to the batter before baking.
• Add a few handfuls of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
• Not keen on Butternut Squash?  You can also Pumpkin or Sweet Potato mash.
• Serve with some dairy based or soy whipped cream, ice cream or frozen yogurt.
• I like mine served with a dollop of stevia sweetened Thick Greek Yogurt or freshly whipped cream.

Butternut Squash Dessert Recipe Links

• Butternut and Coconut Polenta Pudding MarlaMeridith.com
• Butternut Buttermilk Squash Bundt CakeFood Librarian
• Butternut Squash Cupcakes with Mascarpone FrostingKorean American Mommy
• Butternut Squash Tarte Tatin Matt Bites
• Date Nut Butternut Squash Muffins The Baking Bird
• Spiced Butternut Squash Cupcakes Beantown Baker