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Crispy Maple-Glazed Delicata Squash Rings: Easy & Perfect

crispy maple-glazed delicata squash rings - featured image
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These crispy maple-glazed delicata squash rings are a quick and easy fall side dish, featuring tender squash with a caramelized, sticky-sweet glaze. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, they’re naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 4–5 sprigs fresh thyme (for garnish)
  • Flaky sea salt (optional, for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position the rack in the middle of the oven. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly and pat dry. Trim off the ends, then cut crosswise into ½-inch thick rings. Remove seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each ring using a small spoon or your fingers.
  3. Place the squash rings in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1½ tablespoons of avocado oil and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon sea salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Gently toss to coat evenly.
  4. Arrange the seasoned rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping.
  5. Roast for 12 minutes, until the edges start to turn golden and the squash softens slightly.
  6. While the rings roast, prepare the maple glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining ½ tablespoon avocado oil, 3 tablespoons maple syrup, ½ teaspoon sea salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder until smooth.
  7. Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Carefully flip each ring using a metal spatula. Brush each ring generously with the maple glaze, coating both the top and edges.
  8. Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for another 10-12 minutes, watching closely during the last 3 minutes to prevent burning. The rings are done when the edges are deep golden brown and slightly crispy, and the glaze is bubbling and sticky. For extra crispy edges, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes.
  9. Remove from the oven and let the rings rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and flaky sea salt (if using). Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

For the crispiest rings, place a wire cooling rack on the baking sheet before arranging the squash to allow air circulation underneath. Watch the glaze carefully in the final minutes as maple syrup burns quickly. Leftover rings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash, maple glaze, roasted squash, fall side dish, crispy squash rings, vegan, gluten-free, easy side dish

Find it online: https://cravemila.com/crispy-maple-glazed-delicata-squash-rings-easy-and-perfect/