Baked Praline Acorn Squash is a delicious side dish! Crescent-shaped slices, topped w/ caramelized brown sugar, pecans, maple syrup & spices!
Preheat oven to 400°F. Place aluminum foil on two rimmed baking sheets. Lightly spray foil with non-stick baking spray.
Cut each squash in half horizontally (NOT from stem to bottom). Skin is thick; use caution when cutting. Remove seeds and pith. Cut each half in half again, resulting in 4 pieces per squash. Cut squash into approx. 1" thick crescent-shaped slices. Arrange slices in a single layer on prepared baking sheets.
Stir olive oil and maple syrup in a small bowl until combined. Brush each slice of squash with HALF of this glaze (top surface only), reserving other half for later.
Place pecans and brown sugar in a food processor (or hand held food chopper). Pulse/process until the pecans become finely ground. Add salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper; pulse or chop just enough to incorporate these ingredients. Sprinkle HALF of pecan mixture over top surface of squash slices, reserving other half for later.
Bake at 400°F for 5 minutes; remove pans from oven. Carefully turn slices over (use fork, spatula, fingers, or tongs). Repeat process, brushing slices with remaining glaze, then sprinkling remaining pecan mixture. Place into oven; bake for 20 more minutes. Squash can be easily pierced with a fork when done (fork-tender), and pecan/brown sugar mix should be slightly caramelized. Remove from oven; transfer slices to serving platter. Serve, and enjoy!
Caloric calculation made based on 6 servings. Depending on the size squash used, it's possible to get 8 servings from the recipe, as written.
TIP: Please take note that you do NOT eat the peel on acorn squash. Simply run a butter knife around the outer edge and remove the peel (discard) before eating.
Baked Praline Acorn Squash https://www.thegratefulgirlcooks.com/baked-praline-acorn-squash/