Last fall, I went apple picking with my family. It was a gorgeous day, crisp air, and the leaves were all these amazing autumn colors. It made me crave warm, comforting food, and that's where this recipe came in! It’s unbelievably simple, but delivers big on flavor. This recipe is a go-to for me, especially when autumn rolls around and there's a chill in the air.
This recipe is more than just a side dish—it's a celebration of autumn's bounty. The sweet and savory flavors of the butternut squash perfectly complement the warm spice notes of cinnamon and maple. It's so easy to prepare that even a beginner cook can handle it. Prepare to be amazed! I promise it will be your new favorite side dish, especially for your holiday meals!
Required Equipments
- Large pot
- Vegetable peeler
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Steamed Butternut Squash with Maple Cinnamon Glaze: Frequently Asked Questions
Steamed Butternut Squash with Maple Cinnamon Glaze
This Steamed Butternut Squash with Maple-Cinnamon Glaze is the perfect autumn side dish – sweet, savory, and utterly delicious! Easy to make and packed with flavor, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 2 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for even cooking and that lovely caramelization.
- Wash and peel the butternut squash: Give it a good scrub, then use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin. It's easier than you might think, but be careful—those peels can be sharp!
- Cut the squash: Cut the squash in half lengthwise. Then, scoop out the seeds and stringy bits with a spoon. I usually save those seeds for roasting later—they're a tasty snack!
- Chop the squash into chunks: Aim for roughly 1-inch cubes. Even sized chunks will cook evenly, trust me on this one.
- Toss with oil and spices: In a large bowl, toss the squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- Spread on a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Spread your seasoned squash chunks in a single layer.
- Bake until tender: Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized. Use a fork to check for doneness—it should easily pierce the squash.
- Make the glaze (optional): While the squash is baking, you can prepare a richer glaze. In a small saucepan, combine 1/4 cup of maple syrup with 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Simmer over low heat until slightly thickened. About 5-7 minutes should do it.
- Glaze and serve: Once the squash is cooked, you can either drizzle the glaze over it or toss it in gently, depending on your preference. I personally prefer drizzling, for a prettier presentation, but tossing is easier!
- Garnish (optional): Before serving, you can add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and visual appeal. A dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs are great touches too!
📝 Notes
- For a richer glaze, simmer 1/4 cup maple syrup with 1/4 tsp cinnamon and a pinch of salt until slightly thickened.
- Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or allspice.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts make a great garnish!
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 200kcal
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 5g
Calcium: 20mg
