Sweet and Spicy Acorn Squash
This dish tastes sweet, warm, and a little spicy.
It feels cozy and comforting.
You can make it fast and with very little cleanup.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Sharp knife
Ingredients
- 2 medium acorn squash – soft nutty base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – helps roasting
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup – sweet glaze
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – deep caramel flavor
- 1 teaspoon chili powder – warm spice
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – heat
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – cozy flavor
- ½ teaspoon salt – balances sweetness
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – sharpens flavor
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice – bright finish
Instructions
- Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut squash in half. Remove seeds. Slice into thick wedges.
- Mix olive oil, maple syrup, brown sugar, chili powder, cayenne, cinnamon, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Place squash on the baking sheet. Pour glaze over slices. Toss well.
- Spread squash in one layer.
- Roast for 30–35 minutes. Flip halfway through.
- Drizzle lime juice over hot squash. Serve warm.
Notes
Add more cayenne for extra heat.
Use honey instead of maple syrup if needed.
This recipe is vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free.