Print

Cozy Roasted Acorn Squash Rings with Easy Maple Butter

roasted acorn squash rings - featured image
Print Recipe

Tender acorn squash rings roasted to perfection with a sweet-savory maple butter glaze. This easy side dish features crispy edges and a caramelized glaze that makes it perfect for cozy nights or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium acorn squashes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (light or dark)
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash the acorn squashes. Cut off the stem and bottom tip so the squash sits flat. Slice crosswise into ½-inch (1.3 cm) thick rings. Remove seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using). Add squash rings and toss gently with your hands to coat both sides.
  4. Arrange the seasoned rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ring.
  5. Roast for 15 minutes.
  6. While the rings roast, make the maple butter glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of sea salt. Whisk continuously until sugar is dissolved and mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
  7. After 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Brush the maple butter glaze generously over each ring, then flip and brush the other side. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of glaze for serving.
  8. Return to the oven and roast for another 10 to 15 minutes, until rings are tender and edges are caramelized and slightly crispy.
  9. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, drizzle with reserved glaze, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

For best results, cut rings evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Don’t skip the first roast before glazing to prevent the sugar from burning. Leftover rings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes for best texture.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://morselora.com/cozy-roasted-acorn-squash-rings-with-easy-maple-butter/