Roasted Butternut Squash with Candied Walnuts – A Sweet and Savory Holiday Side

This Roasted Butternut Squash with Candied Walnuts is the ultimate festive side dish. Sweet, tender butternut squash pairs perfectly with sticky-sweet maple-glazed walnuts, a hint of warm cinnamon and ginger, and crispy fresh sage. It’s a showstopping dish that will instantly become a favorite on your holiday table.

With its vibrant color, balanced flavors, and easy preparation, this recipe is both elegant and approachable. Whether you’re serving a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, a cozy winter feast, or a simple family meal, this side dish elevates any menu.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Sweet & Savory Balance: Maple syrup and orange juice highlight the natural sweetness of squash, while sage and cinnamon add depth.
• Quick Prep: In under 10 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of roasting, you have a beautiful, flavorful side.
• Festive Presentation: The candied walnuts add a glossy, crunchy finish that looks as good as it tastes.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Peel and cube the squash in advance to save time on busy holiday mornings.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, making it accessible for a variety of dietary needs.

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Ingredients

For the Squash

• 6 cups peeled and cubed butternut squash (from 1 medium squash)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

For the Candied Walnuts

• ½ cup coarsely chopped walnuts
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (from 1 small orange)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh sage
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

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Equipment Needed

• Large rimmed baking sheet
• Non-stick skillet
• Small bowl

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Instructions

Step 1 – Roast the Butternut Squash

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. On a large rimmed baking sheet, toss the cubed squash with olive oil, smoked paprika, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, ground ginger, and kosher salt.
3. Spread in a single layer and roast for 35 minutes, tossing halfway through, until the squash is tender and caramelized.

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2 – Prepare the Candied Walnuts

1. During the final 5 minutes of squash roasting, toast the walnuts in a dry non-stick skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, tossing often until fragrant. Watch closely to avoid burning.
2. In a small bowl, combine maple syrup, orange juice, sage, apple cider vinegar, and remaining ¼ teaspoon cinnamon.
3. Pour this mixture over the toasted walnuts in the skillet and cook, stirring frequently, for 1–2 minutes until the walnuts are evenly glazed. Season with a pinch of salt and remove from heat.

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Step 3 – Assemble and Serve

1. Transfer the roasted butternut squash to a serving platter.
2. Scatter the candied walnuts over the top for a festive finish.
3. Serve warm and enjoy the sweet, nutty, and aromatic flavors.

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Tips for Success

• Make Ahead: Peel and cube the squash up to 1 day in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Reheat over medium-low heat on the stovetop or in the oven at 350°F for best texture. Microwaving works in a pinch, but may soften the squash and walnuts.
• Enhance Flavor: Sprinkle a little extra fresh sage or a pinch of cinnamon over the dish before serving for added aroma and presentation.
• Nut Alternatives: Pecans or hazelnuts can be substituted for walnuts for a slightly different flavor profile.

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Nutrition (Per ½ Cup Serving)

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Sodium: 185 mg
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 9 g

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?
Yes, pre-cut squash works perfectly and saves prep time. Just adjust roasting time if cubes are smaller.

2. Can I make this nut-free?
Absolutely! Skip the walnuts or replace with roasted pumpkin seeds for crunch.

3. Can I prepare this vegan?
Yes — ensure your maple syrup is vegan-certified and omit any optional toppings like buttered finishes.

4. Can this dish be frozen?
It’s best enjoyed fresh. Roasted squash can be frozen, but candied walnuts may lose their crispness.

5. Can I make this sweeter or more savory?
Adjust the maple syrup for sweetness or add extra smoked paprika for a savory, smoky flavor.

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Final Thoughts

Roasted Butternut Squash with Candied Walnuts is the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors. The caramelized squash, sticky maple walnuts, aromatic orange juice, and fresh sage create a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

It’s a holiday side that will impress guests and a simple, flavorful addition to any weeknight dinner. Easy to prep, quick to roast, and irresistibly festive — this dish is destined to become a seasonal favorite.

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