Print

Kid-Friendly Maple Roasted Acorn Squash Rings

Kid-Friendly Maple Roasted Acorn Squash Rings - featured image
Print Recipe

Tender acorn squash rings roasted with a maple-butter glaze until caramelized and crispy at the edges. A fun, kid-approved side dish that’s simple to make and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium acorn squash (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • For serving: Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional)
  • For serving: chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • For serving: fresh thyme or parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash the acorn squash, pat dry, and cut off both ends (about 1/4 inch from each tip) to create flat surfaces.
  3. Stand the squash upright and slice crosswise into rings about 1/2 inch thick (8 to 10 rings).
  4. Use a small spoon or your fingers to remove seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  5. In a small bowl, melt the butter. Stir in maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper until combined.
  6. Place the rings in a large mixing bowl. Pour the butter-maple mixture over them and toss gently to coat evenly.
  7. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the rings in a single layer without overlapping. Pour any remaining glaze over the rings.
  8. Roast for 20 minutes on the middle rack.
  9. Remove the baking sheet, carefully flip each ring with a metal spatula.
  10. Roast for another 15 to 20 minutes, until tender when pierced with a fork and edges are caramelized and slightly crispy.
  11. Let the rings rest on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes.
  12. Transfer to a platter and serve warm. Add optional toppings if desired.

Notes

Use a sharp knife for safe cutting. Cut rings evenly (about 1/2 inch thick). Don’t skip the salt—it enhances sweetness. Line the baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup. Give rings space on the sheet to avoid steaming. Check early to prevent burning. Let rings rest for a few minutes before serving. For air fryer: cook at 375°F for 10 minutes, flip, then 5-8 more minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: acorn squash rings, maple roasted squash, kid-friendly squash, easy side dish, fall recipe, roasted acorn squash

Find it online: https://spoonluma.com/kid-friendly-maple-roasted-acorn-squash-rings/