Maple-Roasted Acorn Squash Wedges
Introduction
These maple-roasted acorn squash wedges are sweet, caramelized, and perfectly tender with just the right touch of warm spice.
They make an easy, cozy side dish for weeknight dinners, Thanksgiving, or any fall gathering.
The maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg give simple roasted squash a dessert-like flavor while still keeping things wholesome.
Ingredients (4 servings)
Ingredients:
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How to Make Maple-Roasted Acorn Squash Wedges
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Preheat the oven and prepare the pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F and place a rack in the center.
Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
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Prep and arrange the squash
If your squash is not prepped, halve it, scoop seeds, and cut into 3/4-inch wedges.
Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
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Mix the maple glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.
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Coat the squash
Drizzle the maple mixture over the squash wedges and toss with your hands until every piece is well coated.
Spread the wedges back into a single layer, leaving a little space between pieces.
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Roast the squash
Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, turning the wedges once halfway, until tender and deeply caramelized at the edges.
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Finish with truffle salt and serve
Transfer the hot squash to a serving platter and immediately sprinkle lightly with truffle salt.
Serve right away while the wedges are warm and glossy.
Substitutions
- Maple syrup -> honey or agave nectar
- Use an equal amount of honey for a slightly floral sweetness and a more pronounced sticky glaze. Agave keeps the recipe vegan and tastes a bit milder than maple.
- Olive oil -> melted unsalted butter
- Use melted unsalted butter instead of olive oil for a richer, almost nutty flavor and softer edges. Brush it on gently so the wedges do not break apart.
- Acorn squash -> delicata or butternut squash
- Swap acorn squash for delicata if you want edible skins and slightly quicker cooking. Butternut works too and gives slightly sweeter, creamier wedges.
Tips
- Choose the right squash
- Pick an acorn squash that feels heavy for its size with dull, deep-green skin and no soft spots.
- Keep wedge size consistent
- Try to cut wedges the same thickness so they roast evenly and finish at the same time.
- Do not crowd the pan
- Leave a little breathing room between wedges or they will steam instead of caramelize.
- Use convection if you have it
- If your oven has convection, use it at 375°F and start checking at 20 minutes for deeper browning.
- Warm the maple syrup slightly
- Gently warming the maple syrup makes it easier to whisk with the oil and helps it coat each wedge.
Nutrition Facts *
| Energy | 102 | kcal |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 2 | g |
| Total Fat | 5 | g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 | g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 | g |
* Approximate, per serving.
Data source: USDA FoodData Central.
FAQ
- How do I know when the squash is done?
- The wedges should be very tender when pierced with a fork and the edges should look browned and sticky. If they still look pale, give them 5 more minutes and check again.
- Why are my wedges not browning?
- The pan is likely crowded or your oven temperature runs a bit low. Spread the squash onto two pans or increase the heat by 15 to 25 degrees.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- You can roast the squash up to a day ahead and reheat it on a sheet pan at 350°F until warm. Add the truffle salt right before serving so the flavor stays bright.
- Can I use other seasonings instead of cinnamon and nutmeg?
- Yes, try smoked paprika and garlic powder for a savory spin or pumpkin pie spice for a cozy fall version.
Serving Suggestions
This maple-roasted squash is lovely alongside roast chicken, seared pork chops, or a simple lentil salad.
For a special touch, garnish with toasted pecans or a crumble of soft goat cheese to add crunch and tangy contrast.
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