Creamy Butternut Squash Soup

This velvety soup is quite sweet, but cayenne lends a little bite; its bright orange color and creamy texture make it a real crowd pleaser. You can prepare the soup with any winter squash, such as acorn or even pumpkin. Early in the season, before the squash is fully ripe, you may need to add a little sugar to the liquid. But as summer turns to fall, there will be enough natural sweetness in the vegetable, and you can eliminate the sugar altogether.

Serve it garnished, if you like,