Easy Air Fryer Acorn Squash

Name: Easy Air Fryer Acorn Squash
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons of vegan butter; 2 tablespoons of maple syrup; ¼ teaspoon of salt; ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon; Pinch of ground cloves ((optional)); 1 whole acorn squash, (halved and seeds removed)

This maple-glazed air fryer acorn squash requires just a handful of ingredients, is ready in under 30 minutes, and makes for a simple, delicious, sweet, nutty, and savory fall side dish!

completed Easy Air Fryer Acorn Squash on a wire rack

Fantastic Fall Maple-Glazed Air Fryer Acorn Squash

While fall has become practically synonymous with ‘pumpkin season,’ there are several other winter squash pop ups in supermarkets and farmers’ markets during these fall months that are definitely worth trying. One of these is the humble but delicious acorn squash. While I’ve already shared a recipe for roasted stuffed acorn squash, when I want a simple side dish for any meal this air fryer acorn squash (and air fryer butternut squash) are my go-to!

Air-fried acorn squash with maple syrup has super creamy flesh with nutty, savory, sweet flesh enhanced with maple syrup and cinnamon for an irresistibly good comforting fall side dish. Whether you’re looking for a fuss-free vegan side for a mid-week meal or something to impress on your Thanksgiving table, this hits the spot.

Plus, cooking acorn squash in an air fryer is one of the quickest and best ways of preparing this mild winter squash. It has all the delicious caramelization of roasted acorn squash in far less time (perfect when you’re pulling together a quick dinner).

Even better, along with enjoying this as a versatile side dish, this easy air fryer acorn squash can also be turned into acorn squash mash, be chopped up and added to soups and casseroles, and more. Keep reading for all my favorite serving recommendations!

The Ingredients

Just 5 ingredients (plus salt) pull together this irresistibly delicious sweet maple roasted acorn squash in an air fryer.

ingredients for Easy Air Fryer Acorn Squash measured out against a light surface

Acorn squash: Choose a ripe squash (see below for tips) that’s a good size to fit your air fryer basket when cut in half.
Vegan butter: I like Miyoko’s or Earth Balance for a rich flavor. Alternatively, use neutral cooking oil, like vegetable oil, avocado oil, etc.
Maple syrup: Maple syrup pairs perfectly with the flavor of the squash. However, brown sugar acorn squash would also work and has more of a molasses flavor.
Salt: Just a tiny amount to balance and enhance the sweetness of the maple and the flavor of the air fryer roasted acorn squash halves.
Spices: I like to use a simple combination of cinnamon and ground cloves (the latter being optional) for extra warming depth in this easy acorn squash recipe.

For a super simple seasoning, use vegan butter and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper.

How To Pick a Good Acorn Squash?

The peak season for ripe acorn squash in the USA is from early October to December. A ripe squash should be heavy for its size with smooth, dull skin. Avoid squash with soft spots. In terms of color, you want one that’s primarily dark green (some orange is okay).

More Seasoning Add-ins and Variations

To make a list that spans every option you have to season this air fried acorn squash would take days. However, here are just a few of my favorite add-ins and alternatives.

Herbs: Sage, thyme, & rosemary (fresh or dried) all pair well with maple acorn squash or make an entirely savory option with salt and pepper.
Pumpkin spice: Enhance the warming spices with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice along with the cinnamon.
For spiciness: Use red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Smoked paprika: For a touch of smokiness to the maple-roasted acorn squash.
Curried acorn squash: Ditch the above sweet glaze for some curry powder or garam masala.
Simple savory seasoning: Combine salt and pepper with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a herb like thyme or rosemary.
Chopped nuts: Like walnuts or pecans to sprinkle over the air fried acorn squash when serving for crunch.

How to Make Air Fryer Acorn Squash?

You only need to follow a few simple steps to air fry acorn squash until tender and caramelized.

How To Cut Acorn Squash

First, rinse and slice the acorn squash in half, downwards through the stem.

Slicing away the stem first may make it easier to cut. Use a sharp knife and use your second hand to push down on the knife, to help it slice through the hard squash.

Then, using a spoon or ice cream scooper, scoop out the seeds/ membrane from each of the squash halves.

To reduce waste further, rinse and dry the seeds and then roast them with seasonings for a simple and delicious snack.

Other Ways to Cut Acorn Squash

If you want to cut it into quarters, simply slice each of those pieces in half.
To cut acorn squash slices, place the acorn squash cut-side-down on your chopping block and use a sharp knife to make slices (lengthwise or widthwise) across the squash about ½-inch thick.
For cubed pieces, you can then chop those slices into cubes.

How to Cook Acorn Squash in the Air Fryer

1) In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the vegan butter, maple syrup, salt, cinnamon, and cloves (if using), and microwave for 30 seconds until melted. Then mix it well.

Want to save this recipe?

Enter your email & get this sent to your inbox! Plus you’ll get great new recipes from me every week!

ingredients for Easy Air Fryer Acorn Squash in a small bowl prior to being microwaved

Generously brush the open-faced acorn squash halves with the maple glaze, then place them in your air fryer basket cut-side-up with space between.

pre air fried butternut squash alongside butter mixture against white surface

process shot of acorn squash in air fryer prior to being cooked

Air fry the acorn squash at 480F/249C for about 15 minutes or until tender.

The exact time will depend on the size and thickness of the squash. If it isn’t ready at 15 minutes, I recommend cooking for a further 5-7 minutes, then checking again. If it’s browning too quickly, you can reduce the heat to 400F/205C (which takes 20-25 minutes total).

Optionally drizzle the air fried maple acorn squash with extra maple syrup and a sprinkle of sea salt when serving.

FAQs

How to store acorn squash?

Uncut ripe acorn squash stores well in a cool, dark, dry area and can last for between 1-2 months this way. Avoid storing at room temperature in high temperatures, as it can cause the squash to become stringy.

Once cut, store the acorn squash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days before cooking it.

Can you eat acorn squash skin?

The entire squash is edible, and the skin should become tender when cooked enough. However, it is thicker than the skin of several other squash types, so you may prefer to peel it.

How to peel acorn squash?

When cooking whole, halved, or quartered acorn squash pieces, I’ll usually only peel it after cooking since it’s really easy to remove then. However, if you want to peel it before cooking, there are several ways.

Option one is to use a sharp knife to work your way around the squash from top (by the stem) to bottom, slicing away strips. This method will also remove some of the squash flesh, though.

Option two is to lightly cook it. You can do this either in the microwave (for around 3 ½-4 minutes, poke holes in the veg first) or boil the whole squash for 12-15 minutes. Once it cools enough to handle, simply peel away the skin.

What are the health benefits of acorn squash?

This small squash is surprisingly packed with nutrients and boasts several health benefits. These include containing moderate levels of vitamin C, vitamin A, and various B vitamins, as well as magnesium, potassium, manganese, thiamine, and even iron.

These combined make for an ingredient packed with antioxidants and immune-boosting and digestive benefits. Acorn squash can also be beneficial for muscle function, red blood cell production, and to help regulate blood pressure levels.

Can I roast acorn squash?

If you want an easy acorn squash recipe for the oven, check out this roasted stuffed acorn squash (feel free to ditch the stuffing for a simple side).

Top Recipe Tips and Notes

Experiment with other squash: You can use this same method with several other types of squash, including pumpkin, delicata squash, kabocha, etc. However, the cooking time will vary based on the thickness of the squash.
Evenly slice the squash: So it will cook evenly. Also, leave space between the pieces so they air fry evenly.
Adjust the size: You can air fry acorn squash in halves, slices, or cubes.
Avoid using cooking sprays: Certain cooking sprays (like Pam) can damage the non-stick in your air fryer basket. Instead, use oil sprays.
For a more saucy middle: Add a teaspoon of vegan butter to the center of each squash half. As it bakes, all the liquids create a saucy middle.
Cooking time may vary: Based on the thickness and size of your winter squash, as well as your individual air fryer.

How To Serve Maple Acorn Squash

Air fryer acorn squash is more than a versatile side dish. In fact, there are plenty of ways to use this delicious air-fried winter squash, including:

Add the flesh to soups
Chop it up and toss it into casserole dishes
Add cubed acorn squash to pasta dishes
Serve it alongside or tossed into hearty salads
Make acorn squash mash as a side or to enjoy within other recipes and bakes

In fact, you can use this squash in the same ways as starchy veggies like potatoes, butternut squash, and pumpkin (and use it in place of them).

You can also air fry acorn squash as a side alongside:

Grains: Like rice, quinoa, farro, etc.
Other cooked veggies: Like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, etc.
As a soup bowl: Perfect for impressing during the holidays.
Add it to smoothies: The air fried acorn squash puree pairs well with banana, cinnamon, nut butter, etc.
On your holiday table: With delicious sides like Instant Pot mashed potatoes, vegan stuffing, and green bean casserole.

Storage Recommendations

Make ahead: You can slice the squash 3-4 days in advance and prepare the maple glaze, too. Then, when ready to cook, simply baste the squash and cook.

Store: Allow the air fryer squash halves to cool, then store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days.

Reheat: Simply pop it back in the air fryer for 4-6 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

How To Freeze Acorn Squash

Allow it to cool and then store it in a freezer-safe container or Ziplock-style/Stasher bag for up to 2 months. Then, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying/reheating.

More Vegetable Side Dishes

If you try this easy air fryer acorn squash recipe, I’d love to know what you think in the comments below. I’d also really appreciate a recipe card rating!

Photos by Alfonso Revilla