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Best Easy Caramelized Maple Cinnamon Roasted Delicata Squash Recipe

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This Caramelized Maple Cinnamon Roasted Delicata Squash is the side dish that steals the show every single time. Quick, easy, and made with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for fall gatherings and turns a last-minute panic into a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (optional but recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional garnish)
  • ¼ cup toasted pepitas or pecans (optional garnish)
  • Crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional garnish)
  • A pinch of flaky sea salt (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position the rack in the middle.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly under running water. Pat dry. Cut off both ends (about ¼ inch from each tip). Slice each squash in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp.
  3. Place each squash half cut-side down on your cutting board. Slice crosswise into ½-inch thick half-moons.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
  5. Add the sliced squash to the bowl with the glaze. Use your hands or a spatula to toss everything together until every piece is well coated.
  6. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the squash pieces in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching each other.
  7. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast for 15 minutes, then remove the sheet and flip each piece using tongs or a spatula. Return to the oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes, until edges are deep golden brown and caramelized, and a fork slides easily into the thickest part.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the squash rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter. If using garnishes, sprinkle with fresh herbs, toasted nuts, or crumbled cheese while still warm. Finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the pan; use two pans if needed. Cut evenly for uniform cooking. Flip halfway through roasting. Use room temperature maple syrup for better coating. Watch your oven temperature; an oven thermometer helps. Let the squash rest for 2-3 minutes after roasting to set the caramelized coating.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, roasted squash, maple cinnamon squash, fall side dish, easy squash recipe, caramelized squash, Thanksgiving side dish, Friendsgiving recipe, vegetarian side dish, gluten-free side dish

Find it online: https://lumalunch.com/best-easy-caramelized-maple-cinnamon-roasted-delicata-squash-recipe/