Go Back
To make this tasty dish, you need a few key ingredients: - 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed - 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg - 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat) - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/4 cup pecans, chopped (for garnish) - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) These ingredients work together to create a sweet and savory flavor. The maple syrup gives the squash a rich sweetness. The spices add warmth and depth. You can change the flavor with optional ingredients. Try adding: - A splash of balsamic vinegar for tang - Maple syrup mixed with orange juice for a citrus touch - Chili powder for a smoky flavor These options keep the dish exciting. You can adjust the taste based on your mood or what you have at home. To make the cooking process smooth, gather these tools: - A sharp knife for peeling and cutting the squash - A large mixing bowl for combining ingredients - A baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup - An oven set to 400°F (200°C) for roasting Using the right tools makes the cooking much easier. Plus, it helps in making sure your butternut squash turns out great every time. For a complete guide, check the Full Recipe. Start by peeling the butternut squash. Use a sharp knife for safety. Cut it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Now, chop the squash into small cubes. Aim for uniform pieces for even cooking. This process takes about ten minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, mix the cubed squash with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss everything well until the squash is coated. Spread the squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 25-30 minutes. Stir them halfway through for even caramelization. They should be tender and slightly browned when done. After roasting, let the squash cool for a few minutes. Transfer it to a serving platter. For a nice finish, sprinkle chopped pecans and fresh parsley on top. This adds color and crunch. Serve warm to enjoy the full flavor. For the full recipe, check the section above. When picking a butternut squash, look for a squash that feels heavy for its size. Choose one with a smooth, tan skin. The skin should have no soft spots or blemishes. A good squash has a firm feel. Check for a dull finish; shiny skins may be overripe. One common mistake is not peeling the squash. The skin is tough and not tasty. Also, don’t skip cubing the squash evenly. Uneven pieces cook at different rates. Lastly, avoid overcooking. If you roast too long, the squash may burn. To get a beautiful glaze, use pure maple syrup. Mix it well with olive oil and spices before adding it to the squash. This ensures every piece gets a good coating. Stir the squash halfway through roasting for even caramelization. Keep an eye on the color; it should be golden brown. For more details, check the Full Recipe. {{image_2}} You can change the taste of maple glazed butternut squash easily. Try adding ginger for a warm kick. You can also swap cinnamon for allspice to mix it up. Citrus zest, like orange or lemon, adds a bright note. If you want something sweet, try brown sugar instead of maple syrup. You can even add a splash of balsamic vinegar for tangy flavor. Each of these options gives your dish a new twist while keeping it delicious. This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free. The butternut squash, maple syrup, and spices fit well in both diets. To make it even more special, use coconut oil instead of olive oil for a tropical flair. You can also use agave syrup if you want a different sweetener. Always check that your spices are gluten-free if that is a concern. With these changes, you can enjoy a tasty meal without worry. To make your dish even more exciting, consider adding other vegetables. Carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts can blend well with squash. You can toss in chickpeas for added protein and crunch. Try adding dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet burst. Nuts like walnuts or almonds add texture and richness. Each extra ingredient can create a unique flavor profile that elevates the dish. For the full recipe, check out the details above. To keep your maple glazed butternut squash fresh, place it in an airtight container. Make sure it cools down before sealing it. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. This way, you can enjoy the sweet and spicy flavors later. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the squash in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the squash on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm. This method keeps the glaze nice and sticky. You can freeze maple glazed butternut squash if you want to save it longer. First, let it cool completely. Then, place the squash in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the oven for the best flavor. For the full recipe, check out the details above. It takes about 25-30 minutes to cook butternut squash in the oven. You want it to be tender and slightly caramelized. Roasting brings out the best flavor and texture. Yes, you can use other types of squash. Acorn squash and pumpkin work well too. Each type will give a unique flavor to the dish. Butternut squash is low in calories and high in vitamins. It is rich in vitamin A, which is good for your eyes. It also has fiber, which helps digestion. Plus, it contains antioxidants that support overall health. While maple syrup adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it. Honey or agave syrup can work as alternatives. However, they will change the dish's sweetness and taste. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Roast the squash and store it in an airtight container. Reheat before serving for the best taste. For the full recipe, check the original guide. In this post, we explored making maple glazed butternut squash. We covered essential and optional ingredients, plus tools you'll need. I provided step-by-step instructions for preparation, roasting, and serving. You learned tips for selecting squash and avoiding mistakes. We also discussed tasty variations and how to store leftovers properly. Enjoy this dish for its flavor and ease. Try new twists to make it your own!

Maple Glazed Butternut Squash

Discover the delightful recipe for Maple Glazed Butternut Squash, the perfect seasonal side dish! With sweet maple syrup and warm spices, this dish is both easy to make and incredibly tasty. Just toss cubed butternut squash with simple ingredients, roast until caramelized, and garnish for a stunning presentation. Click through to explore this delicious recipe and impress your guests at your next gathering!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed

3 tablespoons pure maple syrup

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup pecans, chopped (for garnish)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss until the squash is well coated.

      Spread the butternut squash evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

        Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through for even cooking.

          Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes.

            Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with chopped pecans and fresh parsley for garnish.

              Serve warm, and enjoy the delicious flavors!

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4