Print

4 Best Tips for Perfect Maple Roasted Delicata Squash Rings

maple roasted delicata squash rings - featured image

These light and crispy maple roasted delicata squash rings are everything you want from a fall side dish. They’re sweet from the maple, savory from a touch of salt and pepper, and somehow both tender and crunchy at the same time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1½ pounds total)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt, plus more for finishing
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Wash the squash thoroughly and pat dry. Trim off both ends, then cut crosswise into ½-inch thick rings. Remove seeds from each ring using fingers or a small spoon.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, avocado oil, cornstarch, sea salt, black pepper, and cinnamon (if using) until mostly smooth.
  4. Add the squash rings to the bowl and toss gently with your hands until evenly coated. Let sit for 2 minutes.
  5. Arrange the rings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about ½ inch space between each ring.
  6. Roast for 12 minutes. Remove from oven, flip each ring, and rotate the baking sheet 180 degrees.
  7. Roast for another 8-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh thyme (if using) and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Serve immediately.

Notes

Slice rings evenly (½-inch thick) for consistent cooking. Don’t skip the cornstarch—it creates a crispy coating. Give rings space on the baking sheet to avoid steaming. Watch the last few minutes to prevent burning. Serve immediately for best crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: maple roasted delicata squash, delicata squash rings, fall side dish, roasted squash, crispy squash rings, maple syrup, vegetarian, gluten-free