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Crispy Maple Butter Delicata Squash Rings: Easy 20-Minute Recipe

crispy maple butter delicata squash rings - featured image

These crispy maple butter delicata squash rings are a quick and easy 20-minute recipe that delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The maple butter caramelizes into crispy edges while the inside stays tender, making them a delicious side dish, snack, or salad topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for serving, optional)
  • Flaky sea salt (for serving, optional)
  • Greek yogurt or sour cream (for dipping, optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly, pat dry, and cut off both ends. Slice crosswise into ½-inch thick rings. Remove seeds and stringy pulp from the center.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, maple syrup, salt, pepper, cinnamon (if using), and cayenne (if using) until combined.
  4. Place squash rings in a large bowl. Pour the maple butter mixture over them and toss gently until evenly coated.
  5. Arrange the coated rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ring to avoid overcrowding.
  6. Roast for 10 minutes. The squash should start to brown on the bottom edges.
  7. Flip each ring carefully and roast for another 8-10 minutes, until edges are deeply caramelized and squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
  8. Remove from oven, let cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt and fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Pat the squash dry thoroughly after washing to help the coating stick. Use room temperature butter to prevent separation from maple syrup. Watch the oven closely in the last 5 minutes to prevent burning. Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure crispiness. For best results, use a light-colored baking sheet.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, maple butter, crispy squash rings, easy side dish, fall recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free