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Maple Glazed Acorn Squash Rings

maple glazed acorn squash rings - featured image

These maple glazed acorn squash rings are a cozy, easy fall side dish featuring caramelized edges, a sweet-and-salty glaze, and buttery, tender squash. Perfect for weeknights or festive gatherings, they’re naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium acorn squash (about 2 lbs each)
  • 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or vegan butter)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, but recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Wash and dry the acorn squash. Slice off the stem and base, then stand upright and cut crosswise into 1/2-inch rings. Scoop out seeds from each ring.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted butter, olive oil, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
  4. Arrange squash rings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Brush or spoon the glaze generously over both sides of each ring.
  5. Roast for 20 minutes. Flip each ring, brush with more glaze, and roast another 15-20 minutes until tender and caramelized, with golden brown edges. Watch closely in the last 5 minutes to prevent burning.
  6. Remove from oven and let cool for 3-5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves.
  7. Transfer to a serving platter, drizzle with any remaining glaze, and serve warm.

Notes

Slice squash rings evenly for best results. Don’t skimp on the glaze for maximum caramelization. Watch the oven closely in the last few minutes to prevent burning. For a vegan or dairy-free version, use vegan butter or coconut oil. This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: acorn squash, maple glazed, fall side dish, vegetarian, gluten-free, roasted squash, Thanksgiving, holiday, easy, healthy