Creamy Winter Squash Soup Inspired by Panera | DishGen Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 medium butternut squash (about 3 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup apple juice or apple cider
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• Optional garnish: roasted pumpkin seeds, fresh parsley, or a drizzle of crème fraîche