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Maple Glazed Acorn Squash Rings

maple glazed acorn squash rings - featured image
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These maple glazed acorn squash rings are a cozy, sweet-and-savory fall side dish with caramelized edges and a buttery soft center. Easy to prepare and perfect for holiday tables or weeknight dinners, they’re naturally vegan, gluten-free, and sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium acorn squash (about 2 lbs total)
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (preferably kosher)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped (optional, or to garnish)
  • Chopped pecans or pumpkin seeds (optional, for crunch)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash the acorn squash thoroughly. Slice off the stem and base to create a stable surface. Stand the squash upright and slice crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rings. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from each ring.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using) until glossy and pourable.
  4. Add the squash rings to the bowl and gently toss to coat thoroughly. Ensure every surface is glazed.
  5. Arrange the rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle over any leftover glaze.
  6. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip each ring carefully with tongs. Roast for another 15-20 minutes, until golden brown, caramelized, and fork-tender. If browning too quickly, reduce oven temperature to 400°F.
  7. Optional: Sprinkle chopped pecans or pumpkin seeds over the rings during the last 10 minutes of roasting for extra crunch.
  8. Transfer the rings to a serving platter and garnish with chopped fresh thyme or rosemary, if desired.
  9. Serve hot, straight from the oven. If needed, reheat in the oven for 5 minutes to revive the glaze.

Notes

For best results, slice squash rings evenly to ensure even roasting. Don’t overcrowd the pan—use two sheets if needed for crisp edges. Real maple syrup is essential for the best flavor and caramelization. Optional garnishes like fresh herbs or toasted nuts add extra color and crunch. Leftovers keep well and can be reheated or served at room temperature.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/maple-glazed-acorn-squash-rings-recipe-easy-fall-side-dish/