Harvest Stuffed Acorn Squash with Apples and Cranberries
Experience the essence of autumn with this deliciously savory Harvest Stuffed Acorn Squash. This dish features tender acorn squash halves filled with a delightful mixture of tart and sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and vibrant cranberries, all infused with warm cinnamon and a whisper of honeyed sweetness. It makes a perfect centerpiece for your fall gatherings or a cozy family dinner, delighting your taste buds with flavors that celebrate the season without overwhelming sweetness. Low in protein yet rich in flavor, this recipe embodies the spirit of autumn in every bite.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
acorn squash
1 (halved and seeds removed)
butter
1 tablespoon (dotted on top before baking)
honey
1 tablespoon (raw, drizzled over apple slices)
brown sugar
1 tablespoon (sprinkled over apples)
ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon (sprinkled over apples)
tart apple
1 (thinly sliced, Granny Smith recommended)
sweet apple
1 (thinly sliced, Cortland recommended)
fresh cranberries
1/4 cup (whole, sprinkled on top)
pecan halves
1/4 cup (chopped, sprinkled on top)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2
Carefully cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
3
To ensure the squash halves sit flat, slice a thin strip off the bottom of each half.
4
Layer the thinly sliced tart and sweet apples into the cavity of the squash halves.
5
Drizzle the honey evenly over the apple slices, ensuring they are well coated.
6
Sprinkle the brown sugar and ground cinnamon generously over the apple mixture, making sure to season the edges of the squash as well.
7
Top the apple layers with fresh cranberries and the chopped pecans for added texture and color.
8
Dot the tops with small pieces of butter to enhance flavor while baking.
9
Place the stuffed acorn squash halves on a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
10
Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 hours, or until the squash is fork-tender. Serve warm and enjoy the flavors of autumn.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Harvest Stuffed Acorn Squash with Apples and Cranberries?
It is a savory-sweet autumn dish featuring tender acorn squash halves filled with a mixture of tart and sweet apples, pecans, and cranberries, seasoned with cinnamon and honey.
Which apple varieties are recommended for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using one tart apple like Granny Smith and one sweet apple such as Cortland for a balanced flavor profile.
How do I prepare the acorn squash for stuffing?
Carefully cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and slice a thin strip off the bottom of each half so they sit flat in the baking dish.
What oven temperature is required?
The oven should be preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long does the squash need to bake?
The stuffed squash needs to bake for approximately 1.5 hours, or until it is fork-tender.
Is this recipe low in protein?
Yes, this dish is specifically categorized as a low-protein recipe.
How can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
To make it strictly vegan, substitute the honey with maple syrup and replace the butter with a plant-based butter alternative or coconut oil.
Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, maple syrup is a great alternative to honey and pairs wonderfully with the autumn flavors of squash and apples.
What is the purpose of covering the squash with foil?
Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil helps to retain moisture so the squash and filling become tender without drying out.
How do I know when the squash is finished cooking?
The squash is ready when it is fork-tender, meaning a fork easily pierces the flesh of the squash.
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
While fresh cranberries provide a nice tartness, you can use dried cranberries if fresh ones are not available.
What can I substitute for pecans?
Chopped walnuts or slivered almonds can be used as a substitute for pecan halves to provide a similar crunch.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients listed in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to yield 4 servings.
Do I need to peel the apples before slicing?
Peeling is not required; thin slices with the skin on can add color and texture to the filling.
What does it mean to 'dot the tops with butter'?
This means placing small, pea-sized bits of butter over the apple and cranberry mixture before baking to add richness.
Can I add more spices?
Certainly! While cinnamon is the main spice, a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or ground ginger would also complement the dish.
Is the acorn squash skin edible?
While the skin of acorn squash is technically edible, most people prefer to scoop the tender flesh out of the skin.
Should I roast the seeds separately?
Yes, don't throw the seeds away! You can clean and roast them for a crunchy snack.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used directly without thawing, though they may add a bit more moisture to the filling.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I prepare the squash in advance?
You can clean and cut the squash and prep the filling ahead of time, then assemble and bake when ready.
Is this a main dish or a side dish?
It can be served as a hearty vegetarian main course or as a festive side dish for a holiday meal.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it features whole vegetables, fruit, and nuts, making it a nutrient-dense choice for autumn.
Can I use butternut squash instead?
While the recipe specifies acorn squash, you can use the same filling for small butternut or carnival squashes.
How do I ensure the apples are well coated with honey?
Drizzle the honey in a slow stream over the apple layers to ensure it reaches as many slices as possible.
Can I omit the brown sugar?
Yes, if you prefer a less sweet version, the honey and fruit provide plenty of natural sweetness on their own.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It is a blend of savory roasted squash, tart cranberries, and sweet apples with warm aromatic cinnamon.
Should the squash be seasoned with salt?
The recipe focuses on the sweet and savory notes of honey and cinnamon, but a tiny pinch of salt can help enhance those flavors.
Why do I need two types of apples?
Combining tart and sweet apples creates a more complex and balanced flavor profile in the stuffing.