Go Back
As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, fall brings with it an abundance of seasonal produce that delights our palates and nourishes our bodies. Among these treasures, acorn squash stands out, offering a unique blend of sweet and nutty flavors that pair beautifully with a variety of seasonings. This article introduces you to the scrumptious Maple-Glazed Roasted Acorn Squash Delight, a recipe that celebrates the essence of autumn with its warm spices and the rich sweetness of pure maple syrup.

Roasted Acorn Squash with Maple Glaze

Discover the joy of fall cooking with this Maple-Glazed Roasted Acorn Squash Delight. This delectable dish features tender acorn squash expertly coated in a rich maple syrup glaze, enhanced with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Not only is it a tasty addition to any meal, but it’s also packed with vitamins and fiber, making it a nutritious choice. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 medium acorn squashes

4 tablespoons olive oil

4 tablespoons pure maple syrup

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup pecans, chopped (optional for garnish)

Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). To facilitate a quick clean-up after cooking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    Prepare the Squash: Carefully slice each acorn squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and any strings. To ensure that the squash halves sit securely, slice off a tiny bit from the bottom of each half – just enough to create a flat surface, avoiding any cuts through the flesh itself.

      Mix the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, pure maple syrup, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until fully blended, creating a rich and fragrant glaze.

        Coat the Squash: Arrange the acorn squash halves, cut-side facing up, on the prepared baking sheet. Generously brush the maple glaze over the exposed flesh of each half, ensuring it seeps into the cavity for maximum flavor.

          Roasting Time: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Roast the squash for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and has developed a lovely caramelized exterior. For an extra burst of flavor, feel free to drizzle any remaining glaze over the squash halfway through the roasting process.

            Optional Toasting of Pecans: If you’ve chosen to garnish with pecans, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped pecans and toast them for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Watch them closely to avoid burning.

              Serve It Up: Once the roasting time is complete, remove the squash from the oven and allow it to cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with the toasted pecans and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme, adding a vibrant touch and a burst of freshness.

                Enjoy: Serve the warm, maple-glazed acorn squashes as a delightful side dish to complement any meal, or embrace them as a light main course with a side of grains or a fresh salad.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | Serves 4