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Crispy Maple Balsamic Delicata Squash Rings – Easy 15-Minute Recipe

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Crispy, caramelized delicata squash rings with a sticky maple-balsamic glaze that tastes like a fancy restaurant appetizer but comes together in about fifteen minutes. Perfect for fall gatherings, cozy nights, or whenever you crave something sweet, tangy, and crunchy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium delicata squash (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • ½ cup almond flour
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a cooling rack on top if you have one.
  2. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. Trim off both ends, then slice into ½-inch (1.3 cm) thick rings. Use a spoon or your fingers to scoop out the seeds from the center of each ring.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  4. Place the squash rings in a separate bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Use your hands to gently toss until every ring is lightly coated.
  5. Working one at a time, place each oiled ring into the flour mixture. Press gently so the coating adheres, then flip and repeat. Shake off any excess. Place the coated rings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving a little space between each one.
  6. Bake for 6 minutes, then carefully flip each ring using a thin spatula. Bake for another 5-7 minutes, until the rings are golden brown and crispy.
  7. While the rings bake, make the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it bubble gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in the fresh thyme if using.
  8. As soon as the rings come out of the oven, drizzle the warm glaze over them. Use a pastry brush or spoon to spread it evenly.
  9. Serve immediately. These rings are best eaten within 10 minutes of glazing.

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—rings need space to crisp. Cornstarch is essential for a shatteringly crispy crust. Watch the glaze carefully; balsamic can burn quickly. For best texture, serve immediately after glazing. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but reheat in a 350°F oven for 3-4 minutes (not the microwave).

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash rings, maple balsamic, crispy squash, fall appetizer, gluten-free, vegan, easy recipe, 15-minute recipe

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/crispy-maple-balsamic-delicata-squash-rings-easy-15-minute-recipe/