Sweet Acorn Squash With Apples and Craisins (Crock Pot)
I was on the search for a crock pot method for acorn squash and wasnt happy with what I found so I took a little from each recipe and created my own The results were outstanding If you have any leftovers, simply scoop out the pulp, apples, craisins and mix with juices in crock pot, mash slightly and freeze for a side dish at a later date This recipe is quite forgiving, so dont worry about measuring everything out exactly In our house, we eat this as a main course with a small salad on the side.
I was on the search for a crock pot method for acorn squash and wasnt happy with what I found so I took a little from each recipe and created my own The results were outstanding If you have any leftovers, simply scoop out the pulp, apples, craisins and mix with juices in crock pot, mash slightly and freeze for a side dish at a later date This recipe is quite forgiving, so dont worry about measuring everything out exactly In our house, we eat this as a main course with a small salad on the side.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup apple juice (may use cider)
- 1 large acorn squash quartered
- 2 tablespoons butter (may sub vegan margarine)
- 1 1/2 cups diced apples (i used honey crisp which are sweet
- 1/4 lemon juice of
- 3 tablespoons walnuts
- Carbohydrate 31.6258278190077 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 3.64910375000216 g
- Fiber 2.91157498049736 g
- Protein 2.39583250000708 g
- Saturated Fat 0.229684875000388 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (141g)
- Sodium 7.81715625174813 mg
- Sugar 28.7142528385104 g
- Trans Fat 0.38865625 g
- Calories 154 calories
Step-by-step
- Turn crockpot to HIGH to get it warm while you fill it up.
- Pour apple juice in bottom of crockpot.
- Place squash cut side up in bottom of crockpot.
- On top of each piece of squash sprinkle with salt followed by 1/2 T butter 1/2 T brown sugar and 1 T dried cranberries.
- Sprinkle apples in and around the squash (about 1/4 cup will fit piled up on each squash).
- Juice lemon over the top of the apples then sprinkle with the cinnamon and pour the maple syrup over the top.
- Cook the squash on LOW for 4-6 hours or HIGH for 2.5-4 hours. NOTE crockpots are not created equal as far as temp goes and we will all buy different sized squash that being said cook times will vary I dont mind eating mushy squash but you cant eat undercooked squash simply because you cant cut it ) I cooked mine on low for 4 hours and it wasnt done so I cranked it up to high for 1 hour and it was perfectly cooked.
- When squash it tender place each piece on a plate and sprinkle with the nuts.
- OPTIONAL I am bad so therefore I put another 2T of cold butter in with the apple juice and remaining apples on the bottom of the crockpot and stir til the butter is melted and then spoon the sauce over the top of the squash If you like yours really sweet (as I do) feel free to drizzle it with more maple syrup or honey.
A Cozy Fall Recipe: Sweet Acorn Squash with Apples and Craisins
As a busy mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of homework, soccer practice, and the never-ending cycle of laundry. But even amidst the chaos, I crave comforting, seasonal dishes that nourish my family and warm our souls. That's why my slow cooker has become my best friend. It's the ultimate time-saver, allowing me to prepare flavorful meals with minimal effort. And this sweet acorn squash recipe is a perfect example of that magic!
This recipe was born from a quest – a quest for the perfect crock-pot acorn squash recipe. Let's be honest, many online recipes fall short. They either lack flavor, are too complicated, or just don't achieve that perfect balance of sweetness and savory. So, I embarked on a culinary experiment, drawing inspiration from various sources and adding my own twists. The result? A simple, delicious, and crowd-pleasing recipe that even my picky eaters devour.
What makes this recipe special? It’s the incredible ease of preparation combined with the rich, satisfying flavor profile. The sweetness of the apples and craisins complements the earthy notes of the acorn squash perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The crock-pot does all the work, gently simmering the ingredients until they are tender and bursting with flavor. The slight tang of the lemon juice adds a refreshing contrast, preventing the dish from becoming overly sweet. And a sprinkle of walnuts at the end provides the perfect crunchy topping.
Beyond its deliciousness, this recipe is remarkably versatile. It’s adaptable to different dietary needs. You can easily substitute vegan margarine for butter, and adjust the sweetness to your liking. The leftovers are equally wonderful, perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or side dish the following day. Simply mash the squash, apples, and craisins with a bit of the pan juices, and you have a delicious and nutritious side dish ready in minutes.
More than just a meal: a moment of peace
In my busy life, cooking isn't just about nourishment; it's about creating moments of peace and connection. While the crock-pot works its magic, I can focus on other tasks – helping with homework, catching up with my husband, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of tea. This recipe embodies that spirit – it's a way to nourish both my body and soul, reminding me to slow down and savor the simple things in life, like the aroma of cinnamon and apples simmering on a chilly evening.
Serving suggestions:
This sweet and savory dish is a fantastic main course, especially during the autumn and winter months. It’s equally delicious served as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, turkey, or even a hearty vegetarian stew. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a perfect accompaniment. For a truly indulgent meal, serve it with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream – the sweet and savory combination is surprisingly delightful!
Make it your own:
Feel free to experiment with different types of apples and dried fruits. Cranberries are a classic pairing, but you could also try dried cherries, apricots, or even a mix of berries. If you're a fan of spices, feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability – you can tailor it to your own taste preferences and dietary needs.
So, next time you're looking for a comforting, flavorful, and easy weeknight meal, give this sweet acorn squash recipe a try. It's the perfect blend of simplicity and deliciousness, guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy!
