Print

Easy Roasted Acorn Squash Rings with Maple Butter

roasted acorn squash rings - featured image
Print Recipe

Golden, caramelized acorn squash rings drizzled with glossy maple butter. A simple, quick side dish that looks impressive but takes almost no effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium acorn squash (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, a pinch
  • Optional garnish: fresh thyme leaves or flaky sea salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Carefully cut the acorn squash into rings: slice off both ends to create flat surfaces, then slice crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rings (about 4 to 5 rings).
  3. Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from each ring.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and a pinch of black pepper.
  5. Arrange squash rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Brush or spoon the maple butter mixture over both sides of each ring. Reserve any leftover mixture.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes.
  7. Flip the rings carefully with a metal spatula. Brush or spoon the remaining maple butter mixture over the tops.
  8. Roast for another 10 to 15 minutes, until deep golden-brown and tender when pierced with a fork.
  9. Let the rings rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before serving.
  10. Transfer to a platter, garnish with fresh thyme leaves and flaky sea salt if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Cut rings 1/2-inch thick for even cooking. Pat rings dry after washing to promote caramelization. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil or vegan butter. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted acorn squash, maple butter, easy side dish, fall recipe, weeknight dinner, vegetarian, gluten-free

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