Nutty Maple Squash

When I first discovered this nutty maple squash, it felt like uncovering a warm hug on a chilly autumn evening. The combination of sweet maple and crunchy nuts quickly became a comfort food staple in my kitchen.

I remember the first time unexpected guests popped in and I tossed this together last minute. The warmth from the oven and the maple aroma brought everyone to the kitchen, sparking instant compliments as soon as it came out.

Ingredients

• Butternut Squash: I always pick a medium one that feels heavy and firm, perfect balance for roasting to sweetness and tenderness
• Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives the glaze a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the oven
• Olive Oil: Adds a lovely richness while keeping the dish dairy-free if you choose
• Cinnamon: A pinch adds warmth without overpowering the squash
• Sea Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness
• Nut Topping: A mix of pecans, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds creates that perfect crunchy contrast
• Melted Butter or Coconut Oil: Melts into the nut topping making it wonderfully golden and aromatic

Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line the baking sheet with parchment paper. The air starts to warm the kitchen, hinting at the deliciousness to come.

Coat the Squash:

In a big bowl, gently toss the squash cubes with maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, sea salt, and black pepper. The scent of cinnamon mingling with maple gives an early hint that this dish is pure comfort.

Roast the Squash:

Spread the squash out in a single layer to ensure even roasting. After 25 minutes, you’ll notice the edges caramelizing to a beautiful golden brown, the kitchen filling with sweetness.

Mix the Nut Topping:

While the squash roasts, combine pecans, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, maple syrup, melted butter or coconut oil, and a pinch of sea salt. This aromatic mixture promises that irresistible crunch.

Add the Crunch:

Remove the squash, generously sprinkle the nut topping over it, then return to the oven. The nuts toast and glisten as they bake, bringing a delightful texture.

Finish and Serve:

After another 10 minutes, the nuts are golden and the squash tender. Transfer to a platter and serve warm, a dish that feels like autumn on a plate.

Save

This dish once became the centerpiece during a chilly fall gathering, instantly bringing a sense of home and celebration to the table. It’s more than just food; it’s a memory baked in warmth and shared joy.

Keeping It Fresh

Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or air fryer, keeping the squash tender and the nut topping crispy. I often prepare a double batch for busy weeks.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Pair this dish with roasted poultry or a hearty grain salad for a complete meal. It also makes a charming vegetarian main when served alongside a crisp green salad.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

Once, during a last-minute dinner invite, this recipe was my quick fix. It felt like a magic trick when a few simple ingredients transformed into a crunchy, sweet, and cozy dish everyone raved about.

• Always use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to keep the nuts from sticking
• Oh wait, one more thing: don’t skip stirring the squash halfway for even caramelization
• Keep some extra maple syrup handy for drizzling just before serving for that extra sweetness boost

Save

Thanks for hanging out and chatting about this cozy dish. I hope it warms your kitchen and heart as much as it does mine.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of squash works best?

Butternut squash is ideal for its sweetness and texture, but acorn or kabocha squash can be used as alternatives.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, substitute melted butter with coconut oil in the nut topping to keep it dairy-free and vegan-friendly.

→ How do I achieve a crunchy nut topping?

Chop pecans, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds roughly, mix with maple syrup and fat, then bake over the squash to crisp and brown.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh for optimal texture, but you can prepare squash cubes in advance and assemble the topping before baking.

→ Are there seasoning variations recommended?

Adding a pinch of cayenne or adjusting cinnamon levels can add a subtle kick or warmth to complement the maple glaze.