Quick Golden Butternut Squash Bites With Maple Glaze Recipe

Crispy butternut squash bites dance with a sweet maple glaze that promises pure comfort.

Seasonal ingredients blend seamlessly in this delightful appetizer.

Warm spices complement the squash’s natural sweetness, creating an irresistible flavor profile.

Minimal kitchen skills work magic in crafting these golden-brown morsels.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of caramelized edges and tender interior.

Simple techniques transform humble ingredients into something extraordinary.

FAQs

• What are the key spices used in this recipe?

The key spices are salt, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional smoked paprika. These spices enhance the natural sweetness of the butternut squash and add depth to the flavor profile.

• Can I use a different type of squash?

Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with acorn squash or kabocha squash. These alternatives have similar textures and will work well with the maple glaze.

• Is this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

The base recipe is vegetarian. To keep it fully vegetarian, use feta or goat cheese as a topping. If you want a vegan version, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

• How can I ensure the squash cubes are evenly roasted?

Cut the butternut squash into uniform 1-inch cubes and spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet. Flip the cubes halfway through roasting to ensure even caramelization and prevent burning.

Butternut Bites Glazed with Maple for Sweet-Savory Pop

• Effortlessly Elevate Sides: Transform a simple butternut squash into a gourmet side dish with minimal cooking skills required, making it perfect for home cooks of all levels.
• Burst of Seasonal Comfort: Packed with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, these bites deliver cozy autumn flavors that instantly uplift any meal and satisfy comfort food cravings.
• Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Ready in under an hour, this recipe impresses guests at potlucks, holiday gatherings, or weeknight dinners with its sophisticated yet approachable taste profile.
• Versatile Nutrition Boost: Butternut squash offers rich vitamins and nutrients, creating a delicious way to incorporate healthy vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor.

Christmas Cookie Pinwheels Must-Haves

• Butternut Squash: Sweet winter squash perfect for roasting.
• Maple Syrup: Rich, sweet glaze base with deep flavor.
• Olive Oil: Helps create crispy, caramelized squash edges.

• Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasoning for balanced flavor.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg: Warm spices that complement squash.
• Smoked Paprika: Optional smoky and slightly spicy accent.

• Dijon Mustard, Apple Cider Vinegar: Tangy components for maple glaze.
• Fresh Thyme: Aromatic herb for bright, fresh finish.
• Feta Cheese, Goat Cheese: Optional creamy and tangy topping.

Cooking Method for Butternut Squash Bites with Maple Glaze

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Surface

Crank up your oven to a toasty 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Slice and Dice Squash

Grab your butternut squash and peel away the tough exterior. Chop the squash into uniform 1-inch cubes, ensuring even cooking and beautiful presentation.

Step 3: Season and Coat Squash

• Olive oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Ground cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Smoked paprika (optional)

Drizzle olive oil over the squash cubes and sprinkle with spices. Toss gently to create an even, flavorful coating. Spread the cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping the cubes halfway through. Look for golden-brown edges and a tender interior that signals delicious caramelization.

Step 5: Craft Maple Glaze

• Maple syrup
• Dijon mustard
• Apple cider vinegar

Combine all glaze ingredients in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Watch the mixture reduce and thicken into a glossy, sweet-tangy sauce.

Step 6: Glaze the Roasted Squash

Transfer the roasted squash to a mixing bowl. Gently drizzle the warm maple glaze over the cubes, tossing carefully to ensure each piece gets a delicious coating.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Arrange the glazed squash bites on a beautiful serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves and crumble feta or goat cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Butternut Bite Tips That Glaze Maple Just Right

• Roast Squash Evenly: Use a large baking sheet to ensure cubes are spread out, preventing steaming and promoting caramelization.
• Control Sweetness Level: Adjust maple glaze intensity by adding more or less syrup based on personal taste preferences.
• Enhance Flavor Depth: Experiment with additional spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for a subtle kick and complexity.
• Dietary Adaptations: Swap feta with nutritional yeast for a vegan version or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Roast squash and prepare glaze in advance, reheating gently before serving to save time during meal preparation.

Wrap Butternut Bites With Their Maple Glaze

• Store cooled butternut squash bites in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Keep glaze separate to maintain crispness.
• Place roasted squash cubes in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months. Separate glaze to prevent sogginess.
• Warm refrigerated or thawed squash bites at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, spreading in a single layer on a baking sheet. Drizzle fresh glaze after reheating to refresh flavors.
• Quickly sauté cooled bites in a hot skillet with a touch of olive oil for 3-5 minutes, creating a crispy exterior. Add glaze right before serving to prevent burning.

Christmas Cake Holiday Pairings

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Riesling's slight sweetness and bright acidity complement the butternut squash's caramelized edges and maple glaze perfectly.
• Enhance with Nutty Accompaniment: Toasted pecans or almonds add delightful crunch and earthy depth that matches the roasted squash's warm spices.
• Create Protein Balance: Grilled chicken or roasted pork tenderloin provide savory protein that harmonizes with the sweet and spicy maple glaze.
• Match with Herbal Salad: Fresh arugula or mixed greens with a light vinaigrette cut through the richness and offer a refreshing counterpoint to the sweet squash bites.

Christmas Cookie Pinwheel Twists

• Vegan Maple Delight: Replace feta or goat cheese with nutritional yeast or crushed toasted nuts for a dairy-free alternative. Use maple syrup from organic sources to enhance the plant-based profile.
• Spicy Southwestern Style: Add ground cumin and chili powder alongside smoked paprika. Swap maple glaze with a chipotle-honey sauce for a zesty kick. Top with chopped cilantro and roasted pumpkin seeds.
• Mediterranean Herb Blend: Incorporate fresh rosemary and oregano instead of thyme. Replace Dijon mustard with tahini in the glaze. Sprinkle with za'atar seasoning for an authentic Middle Eastern flavor profile.
• Low-Carb Keto Version: Use monk fruit sweetener instead of maple syrup. Add extra virgin olive oil and reduce roasting time for crispy edges. Garnish with crumbled bacon or crushed pork rinds for additional texture and fat content.

Butternut Squash Bites With Maple Glaze Recipe

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4.5 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Maple-glazed butternut squash bites bring warmth and comfort to seasonal gatherings with their irresistible blend of sweet and savory flavors. Golden edges and caramelized maple notes will make these appetizers a crowd-pleasing sensation you can’t wait to share.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes (approximately 454 grams / 16 ounces)

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Glaze and Garnish Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
• Crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 400°F (200°C) and creating a non-stick surface with parchment paper on a baking sheet.
2. Transform the butternut squash by carefully removing the outer skin and crafting uniform 1-inch cubes, depositing them into a spacious mixing vessel.
3. Enhance the squash’s flavor profile by delicately coating the cubes with olive oil, ensuring comprehensive coverage, then introduce a medley of seasonings including salt, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional smoked paprika.
4. Distribute the seasoned cubes across the prepared baking sheet in a precise single layer, guaranteeing maximum caramelization potential.
5. Initiate roasting process for 25–30 minutes, implementing a midway rotation to promote even browning and tender texture.
6. Simultaneously craft the maple glaze by merging maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a compact saucepan, allowing the mixture to gently simmer and reduce for 3–4 minutes until achieving a slightly thickened consistency.
7. Relocate the roasted squash cubes to a serving receptacle and delicately cascade the prepared glaze, employing a gentle tossing technique to ensure uniform coating.
8. Present the glazed bites on an elegant platter, embellishing with fresh thyme sprigs and optional crumbled feta or goat cheese for additional textural complexity.

Notes

• Customize spice blend by experimenting with different warming spices like ground ginger or cardamom for added depth and complexity.
• Use roasted butternut squash as a versatile base for salads, grain bowls, or as a side dish for protein-rich meals.
• For a vegan version, replace feta or goat cheese with toasted pumpkin seeds or nutritional yeast to maintain a creamy, savory element.
• Ensure even caramelization by cutting squash cubes uniformly and giving them enough space on the baking sheet to prevent steaming instead of roasting.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 202
• Sugar: 14 g
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg