Roasted Acorn Squash (Printable Version)

Tender acorn squash roasted with butter, maple syrup, and a touch of cinnamon for a flavorful dish.

# What You'll Need:

→ Squash

01 - 2 medium acorn squash, approximately 3 pounds total

→ Fats and Oils

02 - 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced

→ Sweeteners and Seasonings

04 - 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, plus extra for serving
05 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, plus additional to taste
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, optional

→ Garnish

07 - Candied pecans, optional

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
02 - Trim 1/4 inch off the stem end and base of each squash. Stand upright on a trimmed end and cut in half vertically. Scoop out seeds and fibrous parts with a large spoon. Arrange squash halves cut-side-up on the baking sheet.
03 - Brush cut surfaces with olive oil. Place 1 tablespoon diced butter into each squash cavity. Drizzle evenly with maple syrup, then sprinkle with sea salt and cinnamon if using.
04 - Roast in the preheated oven for 40 to 60 minutes, until tender when pierced with a fork. Timing depends on squash size.
05 - Remove from oven and drizzle with additional maple syrup. Sprinkle with sea salt to taste. Optionally cut halves into wedges and garnish with candied pecans before serving.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Roasting times vary; check tenderness with a fork starting at 40 minutes.