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Crispy Maple Glazed Delicata Squash Rings

crispy maple glazed delicata squash rings - featured image

These crispy maple glazed delicata squash rings are caramelized, crunchy, and sweet—a perfect fall side dish that’s ready in 30 minutes with no peeling required.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more for finishing
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash and dry the delicata squash. Cut off both ends, then slice crosswise into 1/2-inch thick rings. Remove seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring.
  3. Place squash rings in a medium bowl and drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss gently to coat.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using). Sprinkle over the oiled rings and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Arrange rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Drizzle or brush remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over the tops.
  6. Roast for 12 minutes, then flip each ring carefully. Roast for another 10 minutes until golden brown and tender.
  7. While rings roast, warm maple syrup in a small saucepan over low heat for 2 minutes, or microwave for 15-20 seconds.
  8. Remove rings from oven, drizzle warm maple syrup evenly over them, and spread into a thin layer. Return to oven and roast for 3-5 minutes until glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
  9. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a platter, sprinkle with flaky salt, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Don’t skip the cornstarch—it creates the crispy coating. Watch the glaze carefully during the last 3-5 minutes as maple syrup burns easily. For best texture, serve within 15 minutes of roasting. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

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