When it comes to pairing dishes, honey cinnamon roasted butternut squash is incredibly versatile.
Imagine the vibrant orange squash crowned with golden drizzles of honey and dusted with fragrant cinnamon, sitting on a plate next to succulent grilled chicken or thick-cut pork chops. It also shines as a side to a hearty quinoa salad dotted with cranberries and nuts.
If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, serve it alongside creamy risotto enriched with parmesan and fresh herbs. The sweet and savory balance complements many flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to any meal.
Why This Recipe is Great for You
Now, let’s dive into why this honey cinnamon roasted butternut squash recipe stands out. First, it’s packed with nutrients. Butternut squash is a powerhouse of vitamins A and C, which play a crucial role in immune function and skin health.
The sweetness from the honey and the warm spices create an irresistible flavor profile that’s cozy and comforting—perfect for those chilly nights when all you want is something hearty yet wholesome.
With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can conjure up a dish that looks as impressive as it tastes. This isn’t just food; it’s a slice of seasonal love on a plate.
My Experience Using These Ingredients
When I first stumbled upon this combination, I was curious. Honey and cinnamon with butternut squash? I decided to get into the kitchen and give it a whirl.
Imagining that first bite with the buttery squash melting on my tongue while the honey cascaded sweetness over it felt magical. Each ingredient plays its part beautifully.
The squash itself becomes tender and caramelized, the honey provides just the right amount of sweetness, while cinnamon adds warmth. Add a sprinkle of nutmeg? Game changer! It invites you to enjoy the experience even more.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you need to bring this delicious dish to life:
- 1/4 cup of liquid honey
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 3 pounds of medium-sized butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 6 tablespoons of melted butter (preferably salted)
- 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of sea salt
How to Make Honey Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash
Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash
First things first. Grab that three-pound butternut squash. I recommend you find a good cutting board, maybe one with a bit of a grip. Peeling this squash can be quite a workout, so take your time. Use a sharp vegetable peeler, and watch your fingers!
Once peeled, chop it into cubes roughly 1-inch in size. The uniform shape ensures even roasting.
Step 2: Melt the Butter
Next, take six tablespoons of salted butter. Pop it into a microwave-safe bowl and melt it down. It usually takes about 30 seconds to a minute, depending on your microwave’s strength. Keep an eye on it; you don’t want to overdo it.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with 1/4 cup of honey, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of sea salt. This mixture is where the magic starts! Stir gently until everything blends beautifully.
Step 4: Coat the Squash
Now, toss those cubed butternut squash pieces into your butter-honey mixture. Use a spatula or your hands to ensure each piece gets coated—think of it as giving them a warm hug.
The glaze will cling nicely to the squash, setting the stage for a flavor explosion.
Step 5: Roast the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, spread the coated squash onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. This step is key; overcrowding the pan leads to steaming instead of roasting.
Roast for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges turn golden brown and the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let the butternut squash cool for a couple of minutes. Feel free to drizzle a touch more honey on top for an extra touch of sweetness. It’s perfect as a side dish or even a light dessert. Grab a fork and dig in!
Recipe Notes
- Butternut Squash: A fantastic source of beta-carotene and fiber, with a sweet, nutty flavor.
- Liquid Honey: Opt for pure honey, not corn syrup or sugary substitutes, for the best flavor. It’s natural and provides energy.
- Ground Cinnamon: Adds a warm spice that pairs perfectly with sweetness.
- Nutmeg: A tiny pinch goes a long way—its warm, nutty flavor complements the squash.
- Brown Sugar: Deepens the caramelization process, enhancing the overall sweetness.
- Sea Salt: Balances the flavors, preventing the sweetness from being overwhelming.
Recipe Variations
This recipe is a blank canvas inviting variations. Consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts before roasting for a delightful crunch. You can sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
Alternatively, swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor profile. Even adding a touch of heat with cayenne pepper could create an exciting contrast!
Honey Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup of liquid honey
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 3 pounds of medium-sized butternut squash peeled and cubed
- 6 tablespoons of melted butter preferably salted
- 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons of sea salt
Instructions
- First things first. Grab that three-pound butternut squash. I recommend you find a good cutting board, maybe one with a bit of a grip. Peeling this squash can be quite a workout, so take your time. Use a sharp vegetable peeler, and watch your fingers!
- Once peeled, chop it into cubes roughly 1-inch in size. The uniform shape ensures even roasting.
- Next, take six tablespoons of salted butter. Pop it into a microwave-safe bowl and melt it down. It usually takes about 30 seconds to a minute, depending on your microwave’s strength. Keep an eye on it; you don’t want to overdo it.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with 1/4 cup of honey, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of sea salt. This mixture is where the magic starts! Stir gently until everything blends beautifully.
- Now, toss those cubed butternut squash pieces into your butter-honey mixture. Use a spatula or your hands to ensure each piece gets coated—think of it as giving them a warm hug.
- The glaze will cling nicely to the squash, setting the stage for a flavor explosion.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, spread the coated squash onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. This step is key; overcrowding the pan leads to steaming instead of roasting.
- Roast for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges turn golden brown and the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Once out of the oven, let the butternut squash cool for a couple of minutes. Feel free to drizzle a touch more honey on top for an extra touch of sweetness. It’s perfect as a side dish or even a light dessert. Grab a fork and dig in!
Notes
- Butternut Squash: A fantastic source of beta-carotene and fiber, with a sweet, nutty flavor.
- Liquid Honey: Opt for pure honey, not corn syrup or sugary substitutes, for the best flavor. It’s natural and provides energy.
- Ground Cinnamon: Adds a warm spice that pairs perfectly with sweetness.
- Nutmeg: A tiny pinch goes a long way—its warm, nutty flavor complements the squash.
- Brown Sugar: Deepens the caramelization process, enhancing the overall sweetness.
- Sea Salt: Balances the flavors, preventing the sweetness from being overwhelming.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Honey cinnamon roasted butternut squash is more than just a recipe. It’s a sunbeam on a plate, a seasonal reminder that comfort food can be healthy and delicious.
The combination of warm spices and natural sweetness creates a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. As a busy food enthusiast, I appreciate how easily this dish comes together. If you want festive flavors that don’t require hours in the kitchen, this is the one for you.
Try it, and let your taste buds dance; you may find it becoming a staple at your table. So go ahead, roast some squash, and relish in the simple joys of good food!