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Cozy Roasted Delicata Squash Rings with Maple Glaze

roasted delicata squash rings with maple glaze - featured image

These Cozy Roasted Delicata Squash Rings with Maple Glaze are a simple yet stunning fall side dish. Ready in under 30 minutes, they feature caramelized edges and a tender, sweet center that will impress at any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • Optional garnish: fresh thyme leaves or flaky sea salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. Cut off both ends, then slice into ½-inch thick rings. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  3. Place the squash rings in a large bowl. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil, then sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Toss gently with your hands until every ring is well coated.
  4. Lay the rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, giving each ring space to roast instead of steam.
  5. Roast for 15 minutes. The squash should be starting to soften and some edges should be browning.
  6. While the squash roasts, mix 3 tablespoons of pure maple syrup with a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
  7. After 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a pastry brush, brush the maple glaze over each ring. Flip the rings over and brush the other side too. Return the sheet to the oven and roast for another 8-10 minutes.
  8. The rings are ready when they’re tender all the way through and the edges are caramelized and slightly crispy. A fork should slide through easily.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the rings cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes to allow the glaze to set.
  10. Transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and a pinch of flaky sea salt if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Slice squash evenly (about ½-inch thick) for consistent cooking. Don’t skip flipping the rings halfway through for even caramelization. Watch the glaze carefully in the last few minutes as maple syrup burns easily. Use room temperature maple syrup for easier brushing. For a make-ahead option, roast the rings without glaze up to a day ahead, then brush with maple syrup and reheat at 400°F for 5-7 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, maple glaze, roasted squash, fall side dish, easy side dish, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan