Butternut squash is an amazing first food for babies. Here's how to cook it as well as serving suggestions for 6 months and up. Show
When can babies eat butternut squash?Butternut squash can be offered to babies as soon as they’re ready to start solids, usually around 6 months. It’s important to remember that your baby is unique and that rather than going by the calendar, you need to make sure your baby is DEVELOPMENTALLY ready to start solids. If you’re unsure, be sure to grab my FREE handout! Healthy benefitsInteresting fact! Butternut squash is technically a fruit because it contains seeds, just like spaghetti squash, pumpkin, avocados, tomatoes. It's not only delicious and versatile, but it is also loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It's particularly high in:
Just like mangoes, its bright orange color is due to an antioxidant called carotenoids, which gets converted into vitamin A. Carotenoids are fat-soluble compounds, so they are best absorbed with fat. Last but not least, it's also a great source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. As long as it's offered in an appropriate size and texture, it is safe. Let me show you how! Butternut squash allergy is very rare as well. Related: Best First Foods for Babies Selecting the best squashLook for one that's solid, dull dark beige in color, and doesn't contain any green streaks on the skin. Make sure there are no serious cuts or soft spots. It should feel firm and heavy for its size. I like to pick up several that are similar in size and choose the heaviest one. Make sure the stem is intact. Cooking MethodsIt's VERY important that the squash is cooked until soft enough to be easily smooshed between thumb and forefinger. SteamedPlace water in a pot, add steamer basket, and bring to a boil. Add the squash, cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to continue steaming. It should be easily pierce-able with a fork. RoastedRoasting is the easiest and most flavorful way to cook the squash (or any vegetable for that matter). Soft and caramelized flesh - yes please! This is actually the only cooking method I use to cook our squash.
How to cut for baby led weaning6+ months oldPureed - Add cooked squash into a blender and blend until smooth. Add breastmilk/formula, water, or even broth to thin out to desired consistency. Mashed - Whether you are advancing in texture after doing purees or starting with baby led weaning, this is such an easy and versatile way to serve the squash to your baby. Simply mash with the back of a fork and add to:
6-9 MONTHS OLDBigger is better and safer at this age so your baby can easily grab the food with their palm and bring to mouth. Cut into thick strips or half-moon shapes. Again, the squash should be easy to smush between your thumb and forefinger. Related: Right food size and texture for baby led weaning 9+ MONTHS OLDAs your baby develops their pincer grasp and is able to pick up small pieces of food using their thumb and finger, you can cut into small, bite-sized pieces. I still suggest continuing to offer larger pieces so they can practice taking bites. I emphasize this because my son was the ultimate shoveler, and cutting into small pieces only made it worse. With my second baby, I offered her large pieces along with bite-sized pieces, and it’s definitely helped her to slow down and to take bites rather than shovel. If you haven't already, this is a good time to introduce utensils. Your baby will most likely just play around or toss it. But it’s still great for exposure! Try forking a piece of squash and plate on their plate. Be sure to continue modeling. They are like sponges and learn by watching you! 12+ months oldContinue practicing with those utensils! When serving mash, use the hand-over-hand method to guide your baby's hand to scoop with a spoon. Same goes for forking a bite-sized piece. Again practice practice practice, with a lot of patience sprinkled in. It's a skill that takes time to master. How to StoreFor uncookedWhole squash can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 3 months. Once cut, wrap the squash in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to a week in the fridge. For cookedStore in an airtight container for 3-5 days in the fridge. To freezeYou can either flash freeze or puree and freeze in a tray (I LOVE this one) for up to 3 months. Frequently Asked QuestionsCan I eat the skin of the squash? It is edible and a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, it really depends on the age of the squash. With some, the skin gets tender once roasted, but some have a thicker, unpleasant texture. I advise peeling for your baby, and for older children and adults, you can decide ;). Can I season butternut squash for babies Absolutely yes! While it's delicious on its own, you can easily boost the flavor by adding herbs and spices. Cinnamon is a classic, but cumin, curry powder, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning (to name a few) are all great! What should I do with the seeds? Roast them! First rinse and dry thoroughly. Toss with some oil and seasoning, spread into a single layer on a baking sheet, and roast at 350°F for 15-20 minutes (stir halfway through). They are not appropriate for babies, but make for a perfect snack for you! Be sure to nourish yourself, too. Butternut squash recipes for babiesIts slightly nutty and sweet flavor makes for such a great addition to so many recipes.
Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me! How to cook butternut squash for babiesButternut squash is an amazing first food for babies. Here's how to cook it as well as serving suggestions for 6 months and up. Print Pin Rate Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 40 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes Servings: 20
Steamed
Roasted
Calories: 29kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Sodium: 2mg | Calcium: 18mg | Iron: 1mg Course Side Cuisine American How do I give my 6 month old butternut squash?Pureed - Add cooked squash into a blender and blend until smooth. Add breastmilk/formula, water, or even broth to thin out to desired consistency. Mashed - Whether you are advancing in texture after doing purees or starting with baby led weaning, this is such an easy and versatile way to serve the squash to your baby.
How do I feed butternut squash to my baby?Puree butternut squash in a food processor or blender until smooth. Add water as needed to reach the desired consistency. Once baby is ready for finger foods, typically around 10 months, you can serve her butternut squash that's been cooked and cut into tiny pieces.
How do I cook my 6 month old squash?1. Place the squash in a steamer pot over boiling water and steam for 3 minutes, until the squash is fork tender. 2. Transfer to a food processor and blend until smooth, adding the liquid from the steamer pot 1 tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.
How do I soften butternut squash for baby?Place 1 peeled and roughly chopped butternut squash into a medium saucepan, add enough water to cover the butternut squash, and bring to a boil. Reduce to simmer and cook for 7-10 minutes or until tender when pricked with a fork. Puree in a blender as directed below.
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Butternut squash baby led weaning recipes
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