How to Prepare Butternut Squash for Baby

Eating With Zion October 28, 2024

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This recipe is for 6 month old baby & up

How to Prepare Butternut Squash for Baby:

Butternut squash is a fantastic first food for babies due to its naturally sweet flavor, smooth texture, and nutrient-packed profile. It’s rich in essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, which supports healthy vision, skin, and immune function, and vitamin C, which boosts immunity. Butternut squash is also a good source of fiber, aiding digestion, and potassium, which helps regulate muscle function and hydration. Its creamy, mashable consistency makes it ideal for purees, as well as baby-led weaning (BLW) finger foods.

Best Hack for Preparing Butternut Squash:

I have a great hack when preparing the butternut squash to make things easier. Microwave it for 2 minutes and it softens it up, so that you can easily peel and cut the butternut squash. Works like a charm every time!

Two ways to Prepare Butternut Squash for Baby:

Roast or steam and mash or you can turn into a smooth puree, by blending with a splash of water.
For baby-led weaning style, cut into finger length pieces. For babies just beginning BLW, larger, thick pieces work well because they’re easier to hold and less likely to break apart. As babies progress in their eating skills at around 9 months of age, smaller cubes can help them practice their pincer grip. Roasting with a drizzle of olive oil enhances the sweetness and creates a soft texture that holds together well for little hands to grasp.