Irresistible Butternut Squash Brioche Buns Recipe Soft & Easy

Posted on November 5, 2025

butternut squash brioche buns - featured image

There’s something magical about freshly baked bread, isn’t there? The warm aroma, the golden crust, and the pillowy softness inside—it’s pure comfort. But these butternut squash brioche buns take that magic to a whole new level. With their vibrant color, subtle sweetness, and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re not just bread; they’re an experience. I first made these during the fall when butternut squash was everywhere, and honestly, they’ve become a favorite year-round. Whether you’re looking for a stunning addition to your holiday table or just want to treat yourself, these buns are everything you didn’t know you needed.

This recipe is born from my love of brioche and seasonal ingredients. Adding roasted butternut squash to the dough gives it an irresistible flavor and a pop of golden color. Plus, the squash keeps the buns incredibly soft. I’ve tested this recipe countless times (and maybe eaten too many in the process), so you can trust it’s foolproof. If you’ve never baked with butternut squash before, don’t worry—I’ll walk you through every step. Ready to bake something unforgettable?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft & Fluffy: These brioche buns are the definition of pillowy perfection, thanks to the butternut squash and buttery dough.
Beautiful Golden Color: The natural hue from the squash makes these buns a showstopper at any meal.
Seasonal & Versatile: Perfect for fall gatherings, holiday dinners, or even as a burger bun for your favorite sandwiches.
Easy to Make: Believe it or not, these buns are simpler than they look. I’ll guide you through every step.
Kid-Friendly: My kids devour these buns like candy, and they’re a sneaky way to add veggies to their meals!
Unforgettable Flavor: The subtle sweetness of the squash combined with the buttery richness of brioche is truly one-of-a-kind.

What sets these buns apart from the rest is the balance of flavor and texture. They’re not overly sweet, making them ideal for both sweet and savory pairings. Plus, the butternut squash lends a natural moisture that keeps them soft for days. Trust me, this recipe is a keeper—you’ll find yourself making these for every occasion.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create soft and flavorful brioche buns. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: Provides structure to the dough. You can substitute with bread flour for a chewier texture.
Mashed butternut squash: Roasted and pureed, this adds moisture, sweetness, and that beautiful golden color.
Unsalted butter: Softened and added for richness and that classic brioche flavor.
Eggs: These give the buns their tender crumb and help bind the dough.
Milk: Use whole milk for the best flavor, though you can substitute almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
Active dry yeast: Helps the dough rise and gives the buns their light and airy texture.
Salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
Optional sesame seeds: Add a nutty crunch to the tops of your buns.

Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, and the butternut squash is easy to prepare. If you’re short on time, you can use canned pumpkin puree as a substitute, but the fresh roasted squash provides the best flavor.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible butternut squash brioche buns:

Mixing bowls: For combining and proofing your dough.
Stand mixer: A lifesaver for kneading brioche dough, but you can knead by hand if you prefer.
Rolling pin: Helps shape the dough evenly.
Baking sheet: Use a non-stick or parchment-lined sheet for perfect buns.
Kitchen scale: Optional but highly recommended for accuracy in measuring ingredients.
Pastry brush: For brushing the buns with egg wash.

If you don’t have a stand mixer, don’t worry—kneading by hand works just as well. It’s also a great workout, so it’s a win-win!

Preparation Method

Prepare the butternut squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cube your butternut squash, then toss with a bit of olive oil and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender. Let cool, then mash into a smooth puree.
Activate the yeast: Warm 1/4 cup (60ml) of milk to about 110°F (43°C). Add 1 tablespoon of sugar and 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Mix the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups (440g) all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup (50g) sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt. Add the yeast mixture, 2 eggs, 1/4 cup (60g) softened butter, and 1/3 cup (80g) mashed butternut squash. Mix until combined.
Knead the dough: Using a stand mixer, knead the dough for 8-10 minutes on medium speed until smooth and elastic. If kneading by hand, work the dough for about 12-15 minutes.
First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape the buns: Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.
Second rise: Cover the buns with a towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes, or until puffy.
Prepare egg wash: Beat 1 egg with 1 tablespoon of water. Brush the tops of the buns gently to create a shiny crust. Sprinkle sesame seeds if desired.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the buns for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. They should sound hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Let the buns cool slightly before serving. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to ensure your butternut squash brioche buns turn out perfectly every time:

Roast your butternut squash: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness. Don’t skip this step!
Check dough consistency: Brioche dough is soft but shouldn’t be sticky. If it’s too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time.
Proofing temperature: Warm spots like an oven with the light on can speed up the rise process.
Egg wash: Don’t overdo it; a thin layer gives a glossy finish without dripping onto the sides.
Don’t rush: Let the dough rise fully for the best texture and flavor.

If your buns are unevenly browned, check your oven temperature—it might run hot or cold. And don’t forget to rotate your baking sheet halfway through for even baking!

Variations & Adaptations

Here are some fun ways to switch things up with this recipe:

Sweet version: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon and a handful of raisins for a fall-inspired treat.
Savory twist: Mix in chopped fresh rosemary or thyme for herby buns that pair perfectly with soups and stews.
Gluten-free option: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for yeast baking.
Vegan adaptation: Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water).
Stuffed buns: Fill the center with cream cheese or a dollop of jam before baking for a surprise inside!

Personally, I love adding a sprinkle of sea salt on the egg wash for a sweet-salty combo!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These buns are best served warm, but they’re versatile enough to be enjoyed in several ways:

Serving: Pair them with a bowl of soup or chili, use them as burger buns, or enjoy them on their own with a pat of butter.
Storage: Keep the buns in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds.

The flavors develop beautifully over time, making them even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick rundown of what makes these buns a healthier choice:

Calories: Approx. 180 per bun (varies by size).
Rich in Vitamin A: Thanks to the butternut squash, these buns are packed with immune-boosting benefits.
Nutritional balance: They offer a mix of carbs and healthy fats to keep you energized.
Allergen-friendly options: Easily adaptable for dairy-free or gluten-free diets.

Plus, they’re made with whole ingredients and no preservatives—a win for health-conscious eaters!

Conclusion

These irresistible butternut squash brioche buns are more than just another bread recipe. They’re soft, golden, and packed with flavor you won’t forget. Whether you tweak them to suit your taste or follow the recipe to the letter, I promise they’ll turn out amazing. Honestly, there’s nothing quite like pulling these golden beauties out of the oven and sharing them with loved ones.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below and let me know your favorite way to enjoy these buns. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends—it’s too good to keep to yourself. Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the warmth of freshly baked brioche buns!

FAQs

Can I use canned butternut squash puree?

Yes, canned puree works if you’re short on time, but freshly roasted squash has a richer flavor and texture.

Can I make these buns in advance?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough balls or the baked buns. Just thaw them before baking or reheating.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer?

No problem! You can knead the dough by hand. It might take a little longer, but it’s worth the effort.

How do I know if my yeast is active?

If your yeast mixture becomes frothy after sitting for 5-10 minutes, it’s active. If not, your yeast may be expired or the liquid temperature was off.

Can I use pumpkin instead of butternut squash?

Yes, pumpkin puree is a great substitute, but it may slightly change the flavor and color of the buns.