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Kid-Friendly Delicata Squash Rings with Maple Glaze

delicata squash rings with maple glaze - featured image

Crispy, golden delicata squash rings with a sweet maple glaze that even picky eaters will love. This easy, budget-friendly recipe turns a humble winter squash into a crowd-pleasing treat perfect for bake sales, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium delicata squash (about 1 pound)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 12 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
  • Pinch of salt (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Wash the delicata squash thoroughly. Cut off both ends, then slice crosswise into rings about 1/2 inch thick. Remove seeds with fingers or a small spoon.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). In a separate small bowl, beat egg with milk. Pour wet ingredients into dry and whisk until smooth. Adjust with more milk or flour if needed.
  3. Pour about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat until a drop of batter sizzles and floats immediately (about 350°F).
  4. Working one at a time, dip each squash ring into batter, letting excess drip off. Place gently into hot oil, 4-5 rings at a time. Fry 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  5. Transfer cooked rings to a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack. Sprinkle with a tiny pinch of salt while hot.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Add milk 1 tablespoon at a time until glaze is thick but pourable.
  7. Let rings cool about 5 minutes, then drizzle with glaze. Serve immediately while warm and crispy.

Notes

Pat squash rings dry before dipping to prevent batter from sliding off. Keep oil temperature steady at 350°F. Work in small batches to avoid crowding. Season immediately after frying. For extra crunch, double-coat rings in batter. Glaze when rings are warm (not hot) for best results. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in air fryer or oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: delicata squash rings, maple glaze, kid-friendly, easy vegetable recipe, bake sale, picky eaters, fried squash, fall recipe