If you’ve been on the lookout for an easy, comforting, and beautifully sweet side dish, the Air Fryer Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Recipe is here to steal the show. This recipe transforms humble acorn squash into a tender, caramelized delight with just the right hint of cinnamon warmth and brown sugar sweetness. The air fryer does all the magic, making it quick and effortless while delivering that perfect golden finish you’ll want to savor bite after bite. Whether you’re cozying up for a family dinner or surprising guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines rustic charm and delicious simplicity.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is refreshingly simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in building the final flavor and texture. From the natural sweetness and creaminess of the acorn squash itself to the buttery cinnamon-brown sugar glaze, every component matters.
- 2 small or medium acorn squash: The star of the dish, offering a mild nutty flavor and tender flesh when cooked.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to evenly coat the squash for roasting and creates a subtle savory backdrop.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste): Enhances the natural sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted): Adds a rich, creamy layer that carries the brown sugar and cinnamon flavors beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Sweetens the squash and caramelizes during cooking to deliver that irresistible glaze.
- ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon: Brings warmth and a gentle spice that complements the squash’s mild taste.
How to Make Air Fryer Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Start by setting your air fryer to 370°F to ensure it’s hot and ready to roast your squash evenly. This step is key to locking in moisture and achieving a caramelized exterior without drying out the flesh.
Step 2: Prepare the Squash
Slice the acorn squash in half and scoop out the seeds using a spoon. This creates perfect little bowls to hold the luscious brown sugar and cinnamon glaze, as well as making the roasting easier and more even.
Step 3: Oil and Season
Brush or rub the olive oil all over the cut sides of the squash, then sprinkle with kosher salt. The oil helps with roasting and browning while the salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Step 4: Initial Air Fry
Place the squash halves cut side up in the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes. This part of the process softens the squash and starts creating that tender texture you’re aiming for.
Step 5: Prepare the Sweet Cinnamon Glaze
While the squash is cooking, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. This simple glaze is what transforms the roast into a delectable treat filled with that perfect sweet-spicy balance.
Step 6: Glaze and Finish Cooking
Open the air fryer and generously brush the squash with the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture. Return the squash to the air fryer and cook for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the flesh is tender and the glaze is bubbly and slightly golden.
How to Serve Air Fryer Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted pecans or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme adds a delightful texture contrast and an extra pop of color that complements the warm glaze wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Air Fryer Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Recipe pairs exceptionally well with roasted chicken, pork chops, or even a cozy bowl of quinoa salad for a vegetarian-friendly spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the squash halves as edible bowls stuffed with savory grains or topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt to give the dish a tangy twist. This not only looks stunning on the plate but also adds delightful layers of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover acorn squash in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit after resting, making for delicious next-day bites.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked acorn squash, but keep in mind that the texture may become slightly softer upon thawing. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use freezer-safe containers, and consume within 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the air fryer or oven at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes to regain that crisp, caramelized texture. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the delicious glaze’s consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! While acorn squash is ideal for its shape and flavor, delicata or butternut squash also work beautifully, though cooking times might vary slightly. Each type brings its own unique sweetness and texture to the dish.
Do I have to use brown sugar and cinnamon?
Brown sugar and cinnamon are the classic duo that make this dish special, but feel free to experiment with maple syrup, honey, or pumpkin pie spice for interesting flavor twists.
Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating ensures the squash begins cooking right away and browns evenly, leading to a better texture and more consistent results. So, it’s highly recommended for the best Air Fryer Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Recipe experience.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply swap out the butter for a plant-based alternative or more olive oil to keep the rich texture without any dairy. The flavor and outcome remain deliciously satisfying.
How do I know when the squash is done?
The squash is ready when it becomes fork-tender and the brown sugar glaze bubbles and turns slightly caramelized. The flesh should be soft but still hold its shape nicely.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly delightful about making Air Fryer Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Recipe at home—it’s an effortless way to elevate humble ingredients into a heartwarming dish. Whether it’s your first time cooking acorn squash or you’re looking for a fresh spin on fall classics, this recipe promises sweet, spiced comfort in every bite. So grab that air fryer and give it a whirl; your taste buds will thank you.
Print
Air Fryer Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Air Fryer Acorn Squash recipe offers a quick and easy way to prepare tender, flavorful squash halves with a sweet cinnamon-butter glaze. Using an air fryer ensures perfectly cooked squash with a slightly golden finish in just 40 minutes, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Squash
- 2 small or medium acorn squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
Glaze
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- â…› teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 370°F (188°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the squash.
- Prepare Squash: Cut each acorn squash in half and carefully scrape out the seeds and stringy pulp using a spoon.
- Season Squash: Coat the cut sides of the squash halves with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with kosher salt to enhance the flavor during cooking.
- Initial Cooking: Place the squash halves cut side up in the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes. This starts the roasting process to soften the flesh.
- Make Glaze: While the squash cooks, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until well combined.
- Brush and Finish Cooking: After 15 minutes, open the air fryer and brush the squash flesh generously with the cinnamon-brown sugar butter mixture. Return the squash to the air fryer and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and slightly golden.
Notes
- For even cooking, choose squash that are similar sizes.
- Adjust cinnamon and brown sugar quantities to taste for a sweeter or less sweet glaze.
- You can add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the glaze for extra warmth and flavor.
- Use a silicone brush for easy and even glazing.
- Leftover squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
