Panera Pumpkin Soup Recipe – Easy Meal Recipe

Panera’s pumpkin soup is a warm, velvety delight that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a satisfying meal. A slice of crusty sourdough or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping, enhancing the soup’s creamy texture with a satisfying crunch. 

A light spinach or arugula salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the soup with a touch of acidity. For a comforting combination, an ooey-gooey grilled cheese sandwich makes for an indulgent pairing, perfect for chilly days. 

Roasted vegetables, such as seasoned carrots or Brussels sprouts, add both texture and nutritional value to the meal. To top it off, a handful of spiced almonds or pecans introduces a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness, complementing the soup’s warm, autumnal flavors. 

These pairings take Panera’s pumpkin soup to the next level, making each bite even more enjoyable.

What is Panera Pumpkin Soup?

Panera's pumpkin soup is a rich, creamy blend of pumpkin puree, spices, and a hint of sweetness, making it both comforting and delightfully satisfying. Infused with aromatic spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, this soup celebrates all the flavors of autumn. 

The addition of cream cheese adds a luxurious texture that makes each spoonful feel indulgent. Whether enjoyed alone or with a side dish, this soup captures the essence of the season in one bowl.

Why You'll Love This Panera Pumpkin Soup

There are countless reasons to fall head over heels for Panera's pumpkin soup. Let me break it down for you:

1. Flavor Explosion: First off, the balance of spices is heavenly. The sweetness of pumpkin shines through, while spices like cinnamon and nutmeg provide a warm backdrop. Just one sip, and you’ll be hooked.

2. Nutritional Benefits: Pumpkin is a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s packed with fiber, vitamins A and C, and beta-carotene. It’s a healthy choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

3. Versatile: This soup is incredibly flexible. You can enjoy it as a light lunch, snack, or with dinner. Pair it with various sides or modify the recipe with your ingredients.

4. Ease of Preparation: Trust me, this isn’t a complicated recipe. Its preparation is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for busy lifestyles.

5. Comfort Food: Let’s face it. Sometimes you just need a bowl of something warm and delicious. This soup fits that bill perfectly, providing comfort with every spoonful.

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Panera Pumpkin Soup

To recreate this comforting dish, gather the following ingredients. These components work together to create a symphony of flavor and warmth.

For the Roasted Butternut Squash:

• 2 Tbsp. maple syrup
• 2 Tbsp. melted unsalted butter
• 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and diced into bite-sized cubes
• Pinch of sea salt and ground cinnamon

For the Soup:

• 4 cups vegetable stock
• 2 cups fresh apple cider
• 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 large carrots, sliced thin or diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 Tbsp. freshly grated ginger
• 1 tsp. sea salt
• 1 Tbsp. maple syrup
• 2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp. ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp. ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp. smoked paprika
• 1 oz. can of 100% pumpkin puree
• 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream

Garnish: 

• toasted pepitas
• a drizzle of cream
• a sprinkle of smoked paprika for added flavor

Directions

Now, let’s jump into the steps to create this delectable soup. Follow along closely; it's easier than you think!

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the diced butternut squash with melted butter, maple syrup, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon. Spread it out on a baking sheet. 

Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized. I can’t stress enough how wonderful this combination smells when it’s roasting!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While the squash roasts, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Next, toss in the carrots, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the veggies begin to soften.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the vegetable stock and apple cider to the pot. Bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and add the roasted butternut squash. Stir in the spices, lemon juice, maple syrup, and salt. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to deepen.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until it's smooth and creamy. If you don’t have one, you can transfer it in batches to a traditional blender. Just be cautious—hot soup can splatter!

Step 5: Add Creamy Goodness

Now, stir in the pumpkin puree, cream cheese, and heavy whipping cream until all the ingredients are fully incorporated, creating that luxurious texture. Gentle heat is key here; avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream to preserve its richness.

Step 6: Final Touches

Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want a bit more lemon juice or salt to achieve perfection! Serve hot, garnishing with toasted pepitas, a drizzle of cream, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for that extra flair.

Notes

Here are some handy tips to elevate your soup-making game:

• Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spices and ingredients. They enhance flavor significantly.
• Texture Preference: If you prefer a chunkier soup, reserve a portion of the roasted squash to mix in at the end.
• Substitution: You can swap the butternut squash with sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
• Add Heat: If you enjoy a kick, consider adding a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
• Cool Before Storing: When storing leftovers, let the soup cool completely to maintain its quality.

Storage Tips

This soup holds up surprisingly well in the fridge. Store in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze it for about 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it thickens, feel free to add a splash of broth or water.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some delightful ways to serve your Panera pumpkin soup:

• With Crusty Breads: A slice of artisanal bread slathered in butter pairs wonderfully and soaks up all that creamy goodness.
• Accompanied by Salad: A light salad with nuts, seeds, and a tangy dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
• In a Bread Bowl: For a fun twist, serve your soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. It's whimsical and delicious!
• Topped with Crunchy Seeds: Sprinkle some toasted sunflower seeds or pepitas on top for added crunch.
• With a Side of Grilled Cheese: Enjoy with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort meal.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Panera Pumpkin Soup?

Don’t have all the ingredients? No problem! Here are some creative alternatives:

1. Sweet Potatoes: Replace butternut squash with sweet potatoes for extra sweetness and nutrition.
2. Vegetable Broth: If you want to keep it lighter, try low-sodium vegetable broth instead of regular.
3. Cream Cheeses Alternative: For a lighter version, substitute cottage cheese or greek yogurt.
4. Cider-Free Option: Don’t have cider? Use orange juice or pineapple juice for a fruity undertone.
5. Plant-Based Cream: If you’re dairy-free, opt for coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.

Conclusion

There you have it—your complete guide to making Panera pumpkin soup. This cozy dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that draws on rich flavors and memories. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet dinner or hosting friends, this soup is sure to impress.

With just a handful of ingredients and a little bit of time, you can recreate a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.

 So, gather your ingredients and get cooking. Embrace the flavors of the season and let your kitchen fill with the delightful aroma of pumpkin goodness. Enjoy!

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