Spiced Butternut Soup for the Autumn Equinox

As the days cool and the veil begins to thin, Mabon invites us to pause and give thanks. This turn of the Wheel—also known as the Autumn Equinox—is a time of balance, reflection, and gratitude. What better way to honour the harvest than with a steaming bowl of something golden, spicy, and soul-soothing?

This Spiced Butternut Soup is a staple in our house during September. It’s packed with seasonal produce, rich in colour and flavour, and just the right kind of kitchen witchery: nourishing, warming, and easy to infuse with intention.

Ingredients for Your Autumn Kitchen Magic

• 1 butternut squash (approx. 1kg), peeled and deseeded

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• 2 onions, diced

• 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced

• 2 mild red chillies, deseeded and finely chopped

• 850ml hot vegetable stock

• 4 tbsp crème fraîche, plus more to serve

Method: Stirring In the Magic

1. Begin with fire. Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) and cube your squash into chunks around the size of a conker. Toss in 1 tbsp olive oil and roast in a large tin for 30 minutes, turning halfway. As the squash caramelises, breathe in the golden scent and think of what you’re harvesting in your own life.

2. While it roasts, gently heat the butter and the remaining oil in a large saucepan. Add the diced onion, garlic, and most of the chillies (save a few for garnish). Cover and cook slowly over a low heat for 15–20 minutes until everything is soft and fragrant. Let the base of your soup carry your energy—soft, steady, grounding.

3. Combine the elements. Add the roasted squash to the pan, pour in the hot stock and stir in the crème fraîche. Blend with a stick blender until velvety smooth. You can also use a jug blender for an extra silky finish.

4. Warm through, season to taste, and serve in bowls with a swirl of crème fraîche and a sprinkle of the remaining chilli. You could also top with pumpkin seeds, croutons, or a little sprinkle of paprika if you fancy it.

Witchy Notes

• Butternut squash represents abundance, comfort, and the golden harvest.

• Chilli adds heat and drive—perfect for igniting energy and inner fire as we head into darker days.

• Onion and garlic are classic protectors, cleansing and strengthening in equal measure.

• Crème fraîche adds softness and richness—a reminder to nourish yourself as the year wanes.

Make It Magical

• Stir sun energy into your soup by charging your squash in the window before cooking.

• Whisper a gratitude mantra while sautéing your base.

• Offer the first spoonful to your ancestors or the land spirits before tucking in.

Final Thoughts

This Spiced Butternut Soup is everything Mabon stands for—warm, hearty, and full of seasonal goodness. Whether you’re feasting with friends, celebrating solo, or just trying to sneak in a moment of peace after a long day, this soup is a hug in a bowl and a simple way to honour the turning Wheel.

Want more seasonal recipes for your witch’s kitchen? Try these next:

• Blackberry & Apple Cake for Mabon

• Pear, Walnut & Blue Cheese Tart

• Red Onion & Rosemary Focaccia

Let me know how your Mabon meal turned out—tag me on socials @LancsGreenWitch and share your kitchen magic!