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Crispy Maple Butter Delicata Squash Rings (Easy 20-Min Recipe)

crispy maple butter delicata squash rings - featured image

These crispy maple butter delicata squash rings are ready in 20 minutes, require no peeling, and convert even squash skeptics with their sweet-savory glaze and crunchy panko coating.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free panko if needed)
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted; use dairy-free butter if needed)
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash delicata squash thoroughly, pat dry. Trim about ¼ inch from both ends, then slice crosswise into rings about ½ inch thick. Remove seeds and stringy pulp from center of each ring. Rinse briefly if needed and pat dry again.
  3. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth.
  4. In a shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Stir to distribute.
  5. Dip each squash ring into the maple butter glaze, turning to coat both sides. Let excess drip off, then place into panko mixture, pressing gently so panko sticks to both sides. Transfer to prepared baking sheet. Repeat with all rings, arranging in a single layer with space between each.
  6. Use a pastry brush to dab any remaining maple butter glaze over the tops of the rings.
  7. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven, flip each ring carefully with tongs. Return to oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes, until deep golden brown and tender.
  8. Let rings rest on baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring to a serving platter. Serve warm.

Notes

For extra dipping, double the maple butter glaze and reserve half. To reheat leftovers, place on a baking sheet at 375°F for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. Avoid microwaving. For freezing, freeze raw coated rings on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag; bake from frozen at 425°F for 12-15 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash rings, crispy squash, maple butter, fall appetizer, easy squash recipe, 20-minute recipe, vegetarian, gluten-free option