As the leaves turn golden and the air fills with the aroma of cinnamon and cloves, there’s nothing more heartwarming than gathering in the kitchen to create seasonal delights. Today, we’re embracing the essence of autumn with our Acorn Squash Swirled with Pumpkin Spice. This dish is not just a treat for your taste buds, but a wonderful way to bring family and friends together. Its vibrant colors and rich, earthy flavors capture the spirit of the season perfectly. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or just craving a cozy meal, this recipe is sure to leave a lasting impression.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4
- Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Brush the cut sides of the acorn squash with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
- Place the squash halves cut side down on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until tender.
- In a small bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and maple syrup until well combined.
- Remove the squash from the oven and flip them over. Spoon the pumpkin spice mixture into the center of each squash half and swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Sprinkle with chopped pecans if using. Return the squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- If you don’t have acorn squash, you can substitute with butternut squash or any winter squash available.
- For a vegan version, ensure that the maple syrup is purely plant-based.
- To save time on busy days, prepare the pumpkin spice mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Pairings
This Acorn Squash Swirled with Pumpkin Spice pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and a cozy drink like spiced apple cider or a glass of rich red wine. For dessert, consider serving a slice of classic pumpkin pie to echo the flavors of the dish.
We hope this recipe brings warmth and joy to your kitchen. We would love to see your beautiful creations, so don’t forget to share your photos using #ZynahzRecipes or tag Zynahz on Instagram. Visit us at www.zynahz.com to leave your feedback and discover more delicious recipes. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated with the latest from Zynahz, and follow us on social media for daily inspirations.
