Acorn Squash A La Stacey
A cozy, sweet autumn dish featuring roasted acorn squash filled with maple syrup, cinnamon, and butter, perfect for holiday dinners or seasonal celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scoop pulp and seeds out of the squash halves.
- Place the squash halves in a deep baking dish, hollow side up.
- Put 1 tablespoon of butter in each squash half.
- Fill the hollow with maple syrup, covering the cut surface of the squash.
- Sprinkle generously with cinnamon.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour or until tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using brown sugar instead of maple syrup or add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth. If you don't have acorn squash, butternut squash can be a good substitute. Ensure the squash is tender by checking with a fork before removing from the oven. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more or less syrup according to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Acorn Squash A La Stacey as a delightful side dish during fall gatherings or holiday meals. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a hearty grain salad. For a complete vegetarian meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or your favorite grain dish. This recipe can also be a sweet addition to a brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squash halves in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave the squash on a microwave-safe plate for 2-3 minutes, checking for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Acorn Squash A La Stacey contains roughly 545 calories, with 3g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the squash ahead of time?
Yes, you can scoop out the pulp and seeds and prep the squash halves a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to bake, simply add the butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon before placing them in the oven.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute in place of butter. This will still provide a rich flavor while keeping the recipe suitable for various dietary preferences.
How can I tell when the squash is done baking?
The squash is done when it's tender and easily pierced with a fork. The cut surface should be slightly caramelized from the syrup and butter. If you're unsure, you can bake it longer in increments of 10 minutes until it reaches the desired tenderness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).