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Crispy Air Fryer Maple Glazed Acorn Squash with Toasted Pecans

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This easy fall side dish features crispy air-fried acorn squash slices glazed with maple syrup and topped with toasted pecans. It’s sweet, nutty, and perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium acorn squash (about 1–1.5 lbs)
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
  • Optional: fresh thyme leaves
  • Optional: pinch of chili flakes
  • Optional: grated orange zest

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry the acorn squash. Slice off the stem end, cut in half lengthwise, and scoop out seeds. Slice each half into 1/2-inch thick half-moon slices.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
  3. Add squash slices to the bowl and toss gently to coat. Let sit for 5 minutes to soak in the flavors.
  4. Arrange glazed squash slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray. Work in batches if needed.
  5. Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes, flip slices, and cook an additional 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
  6. While squash cooks, toast chopped pecans in a small skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
  7. Transfer air-fried squash to a platter. Sprinkle with toasted pecans and optional garnishes (thyme, orange zest, chili flakes). Serve warm.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer for best crispiness. Pat squash dry before glazing. Toast pecans separately to avoid burning. For nut allergies, substitute pumpkin or sunflower seeds. You can prep ahead and air fry just before serving. The skin does not need to be peeled.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer, acorn squash, maple glazed, fall side dish, vegetarian, gluten-free, pecans, Thanksgiving, easy recipe

Find it online: https://wigglebite.com/crispy-air-fryer-maple-glazed-acorn-squash-recipe-with-toasted-pecans-easy-fall-side-dish/