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Best Maple Roasted Acorn Squash Rings

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These maple roasted acorn squash rings are caramelized, crispy-edged, and tender—a perfect side dish for any gathering. Born from a happy accident, they’re quick, easy, and a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium acorn squashes (about 1.5 pounds each, or 680g each)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (42g), melted
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup (60ml)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (12g), packed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, but highly recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Prepare the squash: Using a sharp chef’s knife, trim off about 1/4 inch from both the top and bottom of each acorn squash. Slice each squash crosswise into rings about 1/2-inch thick (1.25 cm). Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  3. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
  4. Brush the rings: Arrange the squash rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the maple mixture generously over both sides of each ring, using all the glaze.
  5. Roast for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven, flip each ring using a metal spatula, and spoon any pooled glaze from the pan back over the rings.
  6. Roast for another 10-15 minutes, until deep golden-brown and tender when pierced with a fork. For extra crispy edges, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
  7. Remove from the oven and let cool on the pan for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Slice the squash and make the glaze up to a day in advance. Store rings in the fridge and glaze at room temperature. For vegan version, replace butter with melted coconut oil or vegan butter. For air fryer, cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway. Watch the oven during the last 5 minutes to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: maple roasted acorn squash, acorn squash rings, roasted squash, fall side dish, Thanksgiving side, easy squash recipe

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