If you’re looking for a cozy, sweet-savory side that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, you have to try this Air Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash with Cinnamon and Maple Recipe. The combination of tender, caramelized squash coated in cinnamon and maple syrup creates a perfect balance of comforting flavors and delightful textures. It’s an easy, fuss-free dish that turns simple ingredients into something truly special, making it a new favorite for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Air Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash with Cinnamon and Maple Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s bringing sweetness, warmth, or that irresistible golden color. With these staples on hand, you’ll have a dish that’s full of flavor and perfectly textured from the first bite.
- Butternut squash: The star of the dish, peeled and cubed for even roasting and a naturally sweet base.
- Olive oil: Helps to coat the squash for crispness and adds a subtle richness without overpowering.
- Brown sugar or pure maple syrup: Adds caramelized sweetness that enhances the cinnamon and balances the savory notes.
- Salt: A pinch to intensify all the natural flavors and bring harmony to the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and a touch of spice that defines the comforting nature of the recipe.
- Ground nutmeg: Adds depth and a mild nuttiness, rounding out the spice blend perfectly.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Air Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash with Cinnamon and Maple Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Squash
Start by peeling and dicing your butternut squash into roughly 1-inch cubes. This size ensures that the squash cooks evenly and gets beautifully tender inside while crisping up on the edges. Toss those cubes in a large bowl with olive oil, brown sugar or maple syrup, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing everything well guarantees every piece is coated with a perfect glaze of sweet, spicy goodness.
Step 2: Load Your Air Fryer
Transfer the seasoned squash to your air fryer basket. It’s okay if your squash isn’t in a single layer—just avoid overfilling the basket so the air can circulate properly. If needed, cook in batches to maintain that ideal crisp texture. This step is crucial for getting a golden finish without any pieces steaming and getting soggy.
Step 3: Air Fry to Perfect Tenderness
Set the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and roast the squash for about 20 to 30 minutes. Be sure to shake the basket every 10 minutes to promote even cooking and prevent any burning. You’ll want your squash fork-tender and nicely caramelized—soft on the inside with just the right edge of crispiness on the outside.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, dish out your Air Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash with Cinnamon and Maple Recipe right away while it’s still warm and fragrant. The aroma alone is enough to make anyone’s day better. This versatile side pairs wonderfully with so many meals or works beautifully as a standalone snack.
How to Serve Air Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash with Cinnamon and Maple Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and a nutty contrast to the sweetness. A fresh scattering of chopped parsley or a light dusting of powdered sugar can also elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, depending on whether you want to highlight savory or dessert vibes.
Side Dishes
This Air Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash with Cinnamon and Maple Recipe pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or even a grain bowl featuring quinoa or farro. Its cozy sweetness complements savory mains and makes your plate pop with color and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the squash over a bed of creamy polenta for a textured delight or mix it into a fall salad with spinach, dried cranberries, and goat cheese. It’s also fantastic stuffed into warm pita bread with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a quick and satisfying meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors deepen as they rest, making the squash just as tasty—and sometimes even better—the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked butternut squash if needed. Spread the cubes on a baking sheet and freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents clumping and keeps them fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating
The trick to reheating is to bring back that crispiness. Pop the cubes back into the air fryer for a few minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through and slightly crisped. This method beats microwaving hands down and keeps your Air Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash with Cinnamon and Maple Recipe just as delightful as when freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?
Fresh is best for roasting crispiness, but if you use frozen, be sure to thaw and pat dry thoroughly to reduce moisture. This helps the cubes crisp up in the air fryer.
Is it okay to substitute brown sugar with maple syrup?
Absolutely! Maple syrup adds a lovely natural sweetness and pairs perfectly with cinnamon and nutmeg for this dish’s warm flavor profile.
How do I know when the squash is done in the air fryer?
The cubes should be fork-tender and have golden, slightly caramelized edges. Shaking the basket every 10 minutes helps ensure even cooking.
Can I add other spices to this recipe?
Definitely! A pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder can add a fun twist if you like a little heat or smokiness alongside the sweet flavors.
What size air fryer do I need for this recipe?
A standard 5-6 quart air fryer works well, but if yours is smaller, simply cook the squash in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about how this Air Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash with Cinnamon and Maple Recipe combines simplicity with soul-satisfying flavor. It’s quick, straightforward, and utterly delicious—perfect for livening up your weeknight dinners or impressing guests with minimal effort. I can’t wait for you to experience how this sweet and spicy roasted squash can become your go-to dish!
PrintAir Fryer Roasted Butternut Squash with Cinnamon and Maple Recipe
This Air Fryer Butternut Squash recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy tender, caramelized squash with a perfect blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of sweetness. Using the air fryer ensures a crisp outside and soft inside without the need for roasting in the oven, making it a convenient and healthy side dish suitable for any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Butternut Squash
- 1 large butternut squash (about 5 cups cubed)
Seasonings and Oil
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or pure maple syrup
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Prepare the squash: Peel and dice the butternut squash into 1-inch chunks. Place the cubed squash in a large mixing bowl.
- Season the squash: Add the olive oil, brown sugar (or maple syrup), salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg to the bowl with the squash. Toss thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly with the oil and seasoning mixture.
- Air fry the squash: Transfer the coated squash pieces to the air fryer basket. If using a smaller air fryer, cook in batches as necessary. The squash chunks can overlap slightly but avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- Cook until tender: Air fry the squash at 400°F (204°C) for 20 to 30 minutes. Shake the basket thoroughly every 10 minutes to promote even cooking and browning. Continue until the squash is fork-tender and golden brown but not burnt.
- Serve and store leftovers: Serve the air-fried butternut squash immediately for optimal crispness. Store any leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain warmth and crispiness.
Notes
- If your air fryer basket is on the smaller side, it’s best to cook the squash in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- You can substitute brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a natural sweetness and slightly different flavor profile.
- Make sure to shake the basket every 10 minutes to prevent the squash from burning and to ensure even browning.
- This recipe works well as a side dish for fall and winter meals, pairing nicely with roasted meats or vegetarian main courses.
- Leftovers reheat best in the air fryer rather than the microwave to maintain texture.
