Maple Roasted Acorn Squash

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple to prepare yet delivers a comforting, slightly sweet side that pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, poultry, or hearty grain dishes. The maple syrup adds a natural sweetness that complements the nutty flavor of acorn squash without overpowering it. Roasting brings out the best texture—soft inside with a caramelized surface.

Ingredients

• 1 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

• 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Optional: chopped fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Slice the acorn squash halves into 1-inch thick wedges.

3. In a large bowl, toss the squash wedges with olive oil or melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

4. Arrange the wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

5. Roast for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the squash is tender and caramelized.

6. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

7. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, roasting time is 30-35 minutes, totaling around 45 minutes.

Variations

• Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts before roasting for crunch.

• Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger for additional warmth.

• Drizzle with a little extra maple syrup after roasting for a sweeter finish.

• Use brown sugar instead of maple syrup for a different caramel flavor.

• Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for creaminess.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover roasted acorn squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I roast acorn squash whole?

It’s best to cut before roasting for even cooking and caramelization.

How do I know when the squash is done?

The flesh should be fork-tender and caramelized on the edges.

Can I prepare this dish ahead?

You can cut and season squash in advance but roast just before serving.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, when using olive oil instead of butter.

Can I use other types of squash?

Yes, but cooking times may vary depending on size and type.

How do I prevent squash from sticking?

Use parchment paper or lightly grease the baking sheet.

Can I add spices?

Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, or allspice complement acorn squash well.

How do I store fresh acorn squash?

Store whole squash in a cool, dry place for several weeks.

Can I freeze cooked acorn squash?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

What dishes pair well with maple roasted acorn squash?

It pairs well with roasted poultry, pork, grains, and salads.

Conclusion

Maple Roasted Acorn Squash is a simple, delicious, and comforting side dish that beautifully showcases the natural flavors of fall squash with a sweet maple glaze. Easy to prepare and full of warm, inviting flavors, it’s a perfect addition to seasonal meals and a great way to enjoy nutritious winter produce.

Maple Roasted Acorn Squash

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Maple Roasted Acorn Squash is a sweet and savory side dish featuring tender acorn squash wedges glazed with maple syrup and warm spices, roasted to caramelized perfection.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

1. 1 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded
2. 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
3. 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
4. 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
5. Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
6. Optional: chopped fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

1. Slice acorn squash halves into 1-inch thick wedges.
2. In a large bowl, toss squash wedges with olive oil or melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Arrange wedges in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Roast for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
6. Serve warm.

Notes

1. Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts before roasting for crunch.
2. Add nutmeg or ground ginger for extra warmth.
3. Drizzle extra maple syrup after roasting for sweeter finish.
4. Use brown sugar instead of maple syrup for different caramel flavor.
5. Serve with Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for creaminess.
6. Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge up to 3 days.
7. Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 100mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg