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Crispy Cinnamon Roasted Delicata Squash Rings (Easy Recipe)

crispy cinnamon roasted delicata squash rings - featured image

These crispy cinnamon roasted Delicata squash rings are a quick and easy snack or side dish with a satisfying crunch and warm, cozy flavor. Perfect for any occasion, they disappear fast even among squash skeptics.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium Delicata squash (about 1.5 lbs total)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Wash the Delicata squash thoroughly and pat dry. Trim off both ends, then slice crosswise into ½-inch thick rings. Scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from the center of each ring.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together panko breadcrumbs, ground cinnamon, cornstarch, and salt. Add cayenne pepper if using.
  4. In another medium bowl, toss the squash rings with olive oil until lightly coated on both sides.
  5. Working one at a time, dip each oiled squash ring into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Shake off excess and place on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, not touching.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes. Remove from oven, flip each ring with tongs, and return to oven.
  7. Roast for another 10-15 minutes until crispy and deeply golden on both sides. If using maple syrup, drizzle over rings during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
  8. Let rings rest on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before serving warm.

Notes

For best crispiness, ensure squash is thoroughly dried after washing, do not overcrowd the baking sheet, and use cornstarch for a shatteringly crisp coating. Reheat leftovers in a 400°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: Delicata squash, crispy squash rings, cinnamon roasted squash, easy side dish, vegan snack, gluten-free option