Cinnamon Squash Rings
Sweet and spicy cinnamon squash rings feature tender acorn squash slices coated in cinnamon breading, baked to perfection. Perfect as a flavorful side or unique vegetarian main.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Mix brown sugar, milk, and egg in a bowl.
- Combine bread crumbs, cornmeal, and cinnamon in another bowl.
- Dip squash slices into the egg mixture, then coat with the bread crumb mixture.
- Place coated squash slices in an ungreased baking pan.
- Drizzle with margarine.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the squash is soft.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter touch, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the egg mixture. If you don’t have acorn squash, butternut or pumpkin can be excellent substitutes. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs. Ensure your bread crumbs are fresh for the best texture, similar to those used in Cinnamon Walnut Coffee Cake.
Serving Suggestions
These cinnamon squash rings are delightful as a side dish or snack. Serve them warm, drizzled with honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. They pair wonderfully with roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian meal. For a complete dessert experience, consider accompanying them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoy them alongside Southern Praline Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cinnamon squash rings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This helps retain their crispiness, making them enjoyable even the next day.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cinnamon Squash Rings contains roughly 565 calories, with 5g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 579mg per serving (25% 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 use a different type of squash?
Yes, you can substitute acorn squash with butternut squash or even zucchini. Each variety will lend a different flavor and texture, but they will all work well with the cinnamon and sugar coating.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply replace the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or oat milk. Additionally, use dairy-free margarine or coconut oil for drizzling.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Absolutely! You can slice the squash and prepare the coatings a day ahead. Store them separately in the fridge. When you're ready to cook, simply follow the baking instructions for a quick and easy side dish.
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).