Seasonal and Festive: Acorn squash is in peak season during fall and winter, making this dish a great choice for holiday meals or cozy weeknight dinners.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a sweet side dish, a light snack, or part of a plant-based feast.
Completely Vegan: Made with plant-based butter, it’s perfect for anyone following a vegan or dairy-free diet.
Wholesome and Satisfying: With minimal added sugar and natural sweetness, it’s a healthier option for indulgent flavors.

Ingredients for Roasted Acorn Squash With Brown Sugar Butter

This recipe serves 2–4 people and requires minimal prep. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 acorn squash
1 tablespoon vegan butter
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons maple syrup
Pinch of kosher salt

How to Make Roasted Acorn Squash With Brown Sugar Butter

This recipe is simple and beginner-friendly. Follow these steps for perfectly roasted squash:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Soften the Squash (Optional)

If the squash is hard to cut, microwave it for 1–2 minutes to soften the skin slightly.

3. Cut the Squash

Place the squash on a sturdy cutting board. Use a sharp chef’s knife to slice it in half lengthwise.

4. Scoop Out the Seeds

Use a spoon to scrape out the seeds and stringy pulp until the inside is smooth.

5. Score the Flesh

Lightly score the flesh in a crosshatch pattern, cutting about 1/2 inch deep. This helps the vegan butter and sugar soak into the squash.

6. Prepare for Roasting

Place the squash halves cut-side up on a baking sheet. Add a thin layer of water to the pan to prevent the squash from sticking or drying out.

7. Add Vegan Butter and Sugar

Rub the inside of each squash half with vegan butter. Sprinkle evenly with brown sugar and drizzle with maple syrup. Add a pinch of kosher salt for balance.

8. Roast

Bake the squash for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the flesh is fork-tender and caramelized at the edges. It’s better to slightly overcook than undercook, as the flavors only improve with time.

9. Serve

Remove the squash from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Drizzle any caramelized juices from the pan over the top for extra sweetness.

How to Store Roasted Acorn Squash

Here’s how to store leftovers – if you have any – to keep them fresh:

Refrigerate: Allow the squash to cool completely. Wrap it in foil and place it in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave on low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.
Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as it can ruin the squash’s texture and diminish its flavor.

Serving Suggestions For Our Roasted Acorn Squash

This roasted acorn squash works beautifully as a sweet or savory addition to any meal. Here are some ideas we enjoy, and you might too:

As a Side Dish: Serve alongside roasted vegetables, quinoa, or plant-based proteins for a cozy, balanced meal.
Sweet and Simple: Enjoy it on its own with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a naturally sweet treat.
Holiday Table: Add it to your Thanksgiving or Christmas spread as a seasonal, crowd-pleasing dish.
Light Snack: Slice it into wedges and serve with a drizzle of extra maple syrup and crushed nuts for texture.

Final Thoughts

Roasted acorn squash with vegan brown sugar butter is a simple yet versatile dish that highlights the natural sweetness of seasonal produce.

Whether you serve it as a sweet side dish or a comforting snack, it’s sure to impress with its warm, caramelized flavors.

So grab an acorn squash, preheat your oven, and enjoy this wholesome recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how delicious it tastes!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Best Time To Pick Fresh Acorn Squash?

Acorn squash is typically harvested in early fall, around September to October. Look for squash with deep green skin and no soft spots.

Where Can I Buy Acorn Squash?

Acorn squash is often available at farmers’ markets and specialty grocery stores. Some larger supermarkets carry it during the fall and winter months.

Can I Use White Sugar Instead of Brown Sugar?

Yes, but brown sugar adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor that complements the squash better.

What Can I Serve Roasted Acorn Squash With?

For a sweet option, pair it with cinnamon and nuts. As a side dish, it goes well with savory roasted vegetables or a warm grain salad.