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Delicata Squash and Apple Stacks Recipe

4.9 from 56 reviews

Delicata Squash and Apple Stacks are a delightful autumn-inspired side dish featuring tender, cinnamon-spiced delicata squash and sweet baked apples layered with fresh thyme, dried cranberries, and a drizzle of honey. This elegant yet simple recipe is perfect for a cozy meal or holiday feast, combining warming spices with fresh, natural sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale

Delicata Squash

  • 2 delicata squash, about 10 oz each
  • Cinnamon, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (divided)

Apples

  • 4 medium apples (Honeycrisp or any firm baking apple)
  • Cinnamon, to taste
  • ½ tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

Toppings

  • ¼ cup dried cranberries
  • Honey, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with Silpat silicone baking mats or foil sprayed generously with nonstick spray. Position two oven racks as close as possible to the center of the oven for even baking.
  2. Prepare delicata squash: Trim the tops and bottoms off each squash, cut in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Using a mandoline, slice each squash half into ¼-inch thick half-moon pieces. Arrange squash slices in a single layer on one baking sheet.
  3. Season and bake squash: Sprinkle the squash pieces evenly with cinnamon and ½ tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves. Flip each piece and repeat the seasoning. Cover the baking sheet with foil and bake for 30 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through to ensure even cooking.
  4. Prepare apples: While the squash is baking, core the apples and slice into ¼-inch thick rings using a mandoline. Arrange apple rings in a single layer on the second baking sheet.
  5. Season and bake apples: Sprinkle apples with cinnamon and ½ tablespoon fresh thyme leaves. Flip each apple ring and repeat the seasoning. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through baking.
  6. Assemble stacks: Once both squash and apples are baked, divide them into 6 equal stacks, alternating squash half-moons and apple rings to create layered stacks.
  7. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the stacks with dried cranberries and drizzle lightly with honey. Serve warm and enjoy this flavorful, visually appealing dish.

Notes

  • You can substitute other firm baking apples like Granny Smith or Fuji if Honeycrisp are unavailable.
  • Use fresh thyme for best flavor; dried thyme can be used but reduce quantity by half.
  • Mandoline slicing ensures uniform thickness for even baking but be careful when slicing.
  • Covering the squash during baking helps retain moisture, making them tender.
  • Adjust honey drizzle to your preferred level of sweetness.
  • These stacks can be prepared ahead and reheated gently in the oven before serving.

Keywords: Delicata squash, apple stacks, baked squash and apples, autumn side dish, vegetarian side, cinnamon thyme recipe