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Crispy Air Fryer Butternut Squash Cubes – Easy Cinnamon Roasted

air fryer butternut squash cubes - featured image

These crispy air fryer butternut squash cubes are tossed with cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar for a sweet, cozy snack or side dish. Quick to make, naturally gluten-free and vegan, and perfect for autumn comfort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 3/4-inch cubes (about 5 cups)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Pinch black pepper (about 1/8 teaspoon, optional)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for extra crunch)

Instructions

  1. Peel the butternut squash using a vegetable peeler. Cut off both ends, slice in half lengthwise, and scoop out the seeds. Cut into 3/4-inch cubes.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, toss squash cubes with olive oil, cinnamon, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. If desired, add cornstarch and toss again.
  3. Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Arrange seasoned squash cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; work in batches if needed.
  5. Air fry for 16-18 minutes, shaking the basket or turning cubes halfway through. Check at 14 minutes for doneness.
  6. Test cubes with a fork; they should be tender inside and crisp at the edges. If needed, cook 2-3 minutes longer.
  7. Remove cubes and let cool on a wire rack for 2-3 minutes to crisp further.
  8. Serve hot, optionally sprinkled with extra cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup.

Notes

Cut squash cubes evenly for best crispiness. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; work in batches if needed. Let cubes cool on a rack for extra crunch. For a savory twist, swap cinnamon and sugar for herbs or smoked paprika. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat in air fryer to restore crispness.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer, butternut squash, cinnamon, roasted, vegan, gluten-free, healthy snack, fall recipe, easy side dish