Maple Glazed Acorn Squash
Sweet and savory maple glazed acorn squash features tender roasted squash filled with a buttery, cinnamon-spiced maple mixture, perfect as a cozy side for pork or poultry dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Halve the acorn squash and remove seeds and fiber.
- Place the squash halves in a shallow baking pan, cut side down.
- Add 1/2 inch of water to the pan and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove squash from the pan and discard the water.
- Trim a small slice from the bottom of each squash so they sit straight.
- Combine remaining ingredients (butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, ground ginger).
- Spoon the mixture into the centers of the squash halves.
- Bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, basting frequently.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter instead of regular butter. If you don't have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can be suitable substitutes, although they will alter the taste slightly. To save time, you can microwave the squash for a few minutes to soften it before baking. Also, try adding nuts or dried fruits to the filling for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the maple glazed acorn squash as a side dish to roasted meats or as part of a vegetarian feast. It pairs beautifully with Martha'S Sweet Potato Bread for a comforting meal. For a complete dinner, consider adding a light salad or steamed greens to complement the rich flavors of the squash.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover maple glazed acorn squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, ensuring not to dry them out. They can also be enjoyed cold in salads.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maple Glazed Acorn Squash contains roughly 280 calories, with 2g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 5g fat.
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 make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and ensuring that the maple syrup and brown sugar are vegan-friendly. This will retain the sweetness and richness of the dish while making it suitable for a vegan diet.
What can I use instead of acorn squash?
If you can't find acorn squash, try using butternut squash or even small pumpkins as substitutes. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size and type of squash, so keep an eye on them while baking to ensure they are tender and caramelized.
Can I prepare the squash ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the squash up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for a day. When you're ready to serve, just spoon in the glaze and bake as directed. This makes it a great option for meal prep or holiday dinners when you want to save time.
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).