There’s something magical about Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze—the kind of dish that feels like fall wrapped in warmth. Imagine golden, roasted squash with edges crisped to perfection, a creamy cloud of ricotta, and a glossy drizzle of sweet-spicy cranberry honey glaze. It’s cozy, elegant, and ridiculously easy. Honestly, I still remember the first time I made this—it filled my kitchen with a buttery aroma that screamed “holiday season.” And I promise, one bite of this Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze will make you a believer too. Let’s dive in.
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Overview of the Recipe
This recipe takes humble delicata squash and turns it into a show-stopping side or appetizer. The magic is all in balance—the caramelization brings sweetness, the ricotta adds creaminess, and the hot honey cranberry glaze ties it all together with just enough heat to keep you coming back for another bite.
You’ll love this recipe because it’s:
- Incredibly simple (just three main steps)
- Gorgeous on any table
- Make-ahead friendly for gatherings
- Vegetarian and naturally gluten-free
Taste-wise, Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze hits every note: sweet, tangy, creamy, and a little fiery from that honey-chili kick. It’s comfort food that still feels sophisticated. Plus, it packs vitamins A and C, fiber, and protein—proof that indulgent can still mean nourishing.
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Delicata squash | 1 medium | Halved, seeded, sliced into half-moons |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For roasting |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Season well |
| Ricotta cheese | ½ cup | Whole-milk preferred for creaminess |
| Cranberry sauce or jam | ¼ cup | Smooth or slightly chunky |
| Honey | 2 tbsp | Balances cranberry tartness |
| Chili flakes | ½ tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Fresh thyme or rosemary | A few sprigs | Optional garnish |
Necessary Tools
You don’t need fancy gear for Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze—just:
- A sharp chef’s knife
- Sturdy baking sheet
- Parchment paper (makes cleanup a breeze)
- Small saucepan
- Heatproof spatula or spoon
- Serving platter for assembly
Ingredient Additions & Substitutions
If you want to experiment, here’s where the fun begins:
- Swap ricotta with goat cheese or whipped feta for a tangier bite.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a richer sweetness.
- Try orange zest in the glaze for brightness.
- Add pomegranate seeds for sparkle and crunch.
Every version keeps the heart of Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze intact while letting you play with flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Roast the Squash
Preheat your oven to 400 °F (200 °C). Toss delicata squash slices in olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Spread them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until edges are golden brown and caramelized. The natural sugars in the squash will do their thing, creating that sweet crust that makes this Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze irresistible.
Prepare the Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, honey, and chili flakes. Warm it over low heat, stirring until smooth and glossy. The glaze should be pourable but slightly thickened—think syrupy, not runny. This step fills your kitchen with a scent that feels like Thanksgiving met cozy candlelight.
Assemble & Serve
Arrange roasted squash slices on a serving platter. Spoon or dollop ricotta over the top. Drizzle generously with your hot honey cranberry glaze and finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary. Serve warm. The contrast between the warm squash and cool ricotta is pure joy.
Serving Suggestions
This Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze fits into almost any menu. Serve it as:
- A stunning holiday side alongside roasted chicken or fish
- A vegetarian main over couscous, quinoa, or greens
- A festive appetizer on crostini (just stack and drizzle)
It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, leafy salads, or even a simple soup starter.
Tips for Success
- Don’t crowd the pan. Give each squash slice room to caramelize. Overlapping steams instead of browning.
- Use good olive oil. Its flavor shines through in the finished dish.
- Taste as you go. The glaze’s balance of sweet and heat depends on your cranberry sauce and honey. Adjust chili flakes as needed.
- Serve immediately. The textures sing when the squash is warm and the ricotta soft.
These small details make your Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze taste restaurant-worthy.
Storage Instructions
If you somehow have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven (not microwave) so the squash stays tender, not soggy. Keep glaze separate if possible. Though honestly, this dish rarely makes it to the fridge—it disappears fast.
General Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Course: Side Dish / Appetizer
- Cuisine: Seasonal / Vegetarian
This Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze is proof that quick recipes can look like fine dining. The natural caramelization does the heavy lifting—no fancy technique required.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ~240 kcal | 6 g | 30 g | 12 g | 4 g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I eat the skin of delicata squash?
Yes! The skin becomes tender and totally edible once roasted—one of the best parts of Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze.
Can I make it ahead?
Roast the squash and prep the glaze a day in advance. Reheat gently and assemble right before serving.
What if I don’t like spice?
Skip the chili flakes and you’ll still have a gorgeous sweet-tart glaze that complements the ricotta.
Can I use frozen squash?
Fresh is ideal for caramelization, but if using frozen, thaw and pat dry before roasting.
Conclusion
And there you have it—a simple, elegant, flavor-packed dish that brings warmth and balance to any table. The mix of creamy ricotta, spicy honey, and sweet-tart cranberry makes this Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze feel like something from a fancy bistro, but it’s easy enough for weeknights.
If you’re craving more cozy, caramelized inspiration, check out:
Each one carries that same comforting energy—sweet, rich, and perfect for cool-weather dinners.
Interactive Section
I’d love to see how your Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze turns out! Leave a comment below with your twist on the glaze or how you served it. And if you post on Pinterest, tag it so others can be inspired by your creation.
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Print
Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze is a sweet, spicy, and creamy side dish that captures the cozy essence of fall. Roasted delicata squash becomes beautifully golden and caramelized, then topped with smooth ricotta and a luscious hot honey cranberry glaze. This Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze recipe makes a stunning holiday appetizer or side that’s as easy as it is elegant.
Ingredients
1 medium delicata squash, halved, seeded, and sliced into half-moons
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt & black pepper to taste
½ cup ricotta cheese
¼ cup cranberry sauce or jam
2 tbsp honey
½ tsp chili flakes (for hot honey)
Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss delicata squash slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes until golden and caramelized.
2. In a small saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, honey, and chili flakes. Warm over low heat until smooth and glossy.
3. Arrange roasted squash on a serving platter. Dollop ricotta over the top, then drizzle with the hot honey cranberry glaze. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary and serve warm as a sweet-spicy side or appetizer.
Notes
For extra depth, roast the squash until the edges are slightly crisp and caramelized—it enhances the flavor beautifully.
You can substitute delicata squash with acorn or butternut squash if preferred.
The hot honey cranberry glaze can be made ahead and stored for up to a week in the fridge.
This Caramelized Delicata Squash with Ricotta & Hot Honey Cranberry Glaze pairs perfectly with roasted chicken or a fall salad.
Try these similar recipes for more inspiration: Caramelized Sweet Potatoes, Caramelized Sweet Potatoes with Maple, and Pear, Brie, and Cranberry Flatbread.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Side Dish / Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg