No matter the recipe or squash type, squash soups deliver the comfort of fall in every bowl.
Pumpkin soup and butternut squash soup have become fall staples, each bringing its own character to the table. Both soups offer warm, comforting flavors, but they highlight the subtle differences between the two squash varieties. Pumpkin tends to have a milder, earthy flavor, while butternut squash is sweeter and richer. These differences mean they lend themselves to slightly different treatments in the kitchen, though both deliver that cozy fall vibe we all crave when the temperatures drop.
Pumpkins and butternut squash are just two stars among many fall squash varieties. Acorn squash has a slightly nutty taste, kabocha offers dense, chestnut-like sweetness, and delicata can be roasted with the skin on for added texture. In soups, pumpkins and butternut squash are often pureed for a smooth finish, but cooks worldwide incorporate other squashes depending on what’s locally available.
Across cultures, squash soups reflect a blend of tradition and creativity. In the United States, pumpkin soup often features cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves, leaning into warming spices to capture that unmistakable autumn flavor. Meanwhile, butternut squash soups might take on a more savory spin with sage, thyme, and cream, though variations with curry spices are just as common.
In Thailand, pumpkin soups can feature coconut milk and red curry paste, creating a perfect balance of sweet and spicy. In Mexico, calabaza soups sometimes include smoky chipotle peppers for depth and heat. In parts of Africa, pumpkin soups with peanuts or groundnut paste offer a rich, nutty twist, while French soups, such as velouté de potiron, focus on elegance, blending pumpkin with leeks and crème fraîche for a smooth, luxurious texture.
The choice between pumpkin and butternut squash often comes down to personal preference. Butternut squash’s sweetness makes it a favorite for those who prefer a hint of caramel-like richness in their soup, while pumpkin’s versatility fits well with either savory or sweet profiles. No matter which squash you choose, both soups embody the flavors of fall, inviting experimentation with spices, herbs, and toppings to create something comforting, nourishing, and entirely your own.
Contributors to The Cook’s Cook Community Forum on Facebook have shared a wide variety of squash soups that showcase just how creative this dish can be. You’ll find soups layered with international spices, unexpected toppings, and squash pairings that go beyond the ordinary. These posts highlight how squash can be transformed into something unique with just a few tweaks in seasoning or preparation.
