Baked Acorn Squash with Cranberries and Walnuts Recipe
A vibrant fall dish featuring tender baked acorn squash halves stuffed with tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts, sweetened with maple syrup and warm spices. Perfect as a side or vegetarian main for cozy dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 medium acorn squashes halved and seeds removed
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries or dried cranberries for sweeter flavor
- ½ cup walnuts roughly chopped (or pecans)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey, non-vegan
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted (or olive oil for vegan)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground allspice optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp brown sugar optional, for extra sweetness
- Fresh parsley chopped (optional garnish)
- Feta cheese crumbled (optional, omit for vegan)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the squash: Cut acorn squashes in half, remove seeds, and score the flesh lightly. Place cut-side up on the baking sheet.
- Season the squash: Brush with melted butter (or olive oil), sprinkle with salt, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
- Roast the squash halves: Bake for 30-35 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Prepare the filling: Mix cranberries, walnuts, maple syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon in a bowl. Add brown sugar if desired.
- Fill the squash: Spoon the cranberry-walnut mixture into the center of each squash half.
- Bake again: Return to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes until cranberries soften and walnuts are toasted.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with parsley or feta (if using) and serve warm.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat at 350°F for 10 minutes or in the microwave.
- Substitutions: Use dried cherries or raisins instead of cranberries, or pecans/almonds for walnuts.
- Vegan Option: Swap butter for olive oil and omit feta.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the filling.
- Protein Boost: Pair with grilled chicken, tofu, or a protein shake for a high-protein meal.