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Cozy Maple Glazed Roasted Acorn Squash Rings

maple glazed roasted acorn squash rings - featured image

These Maple Glazed Roasted Acorn Squash Rings are caramelized at the edges with a sticky, golden maple glaze that’s part candy, part vegetable, and all comfort. Perfect for cozy evenings, holiday dinners, or converting squash skeptics.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium acorn squash (about 1.5 pounds each)
  • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup (Grade A Dark Amber preferred)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more for finishing
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional garnish: fresh thyme sprigs or chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash the acorn squash well. Using a sharp chef’s knife, trim off the very top and bottom of each squash (about 1/4 inch from each end). Stand the squash on one end and slice crosswise into rings about 1/2-inch thick. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  3. Arrange the rings on the baking sheet in a single layer, not touching each other.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Using a pastry brush, brush half of the glaze over the tops of the squash rings. Reserve the remaining glaze.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes.
  7. Carefully flip each ring using a spatula. Brush the remaining glaze over the tops.
  8. Roast for another 12-15 minutes, until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork and the edges are deeply caramelized and slightly crispy.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes. Sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt. If using, scatter fresh thyme leaves or chopped pecans over the top.
  10. Serve warm.

Notes

For best results, cut rings exactly 1/2-inch thick. Don’t skip the salt—it balances the sweetness. Watch the oven during the last 5 minutes to prevent burning. Use a metal spatula for flipping. For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut oil or vegan butter. For a spicy version, add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the glaze.

Nutrition

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