Air Fryer Butternut Squash (With Maple & Cinnamon)
Make the best Air Fryer Butternut Squash in under 30 minutes! This easy side dish is tender, caramelized, and tossed with maple syrup, cinnamon, and a hint of red pepper flakes.
Equipment
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing Bowls
- Air Fryer
- Sharp Knife
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes (about 5 cups)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 380°F for 3–5 minutes.
- Place the butternut squash cubes in a large mixing bowl. Toss with the olive oil, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the squash in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
- Air fry for 16–18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking.
- During the last 2 minutes of cooking, drizzle the maple syrup over the squash and gently toss to coat. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook until the squash is tender and the maple syrup is lightly caramelized.
- Transfer the squash to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes just before serving and serve warm.
Notes
- Cut the butternut squash into evenly sized cubes (about 1-inch pieces) so the Air Fryer Butternut Squashcooks evenly and every piece becomes tender at the same time.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Arrange the squash in a single layer with a little space between the cubes. Proper airflow helps create perfectly caramelized edges and a lightly crisp exterior.
- Add the maple syrup during the last 2 minutes of cooking. This allows it to caramelize into a delicious glaze without burning or becoming too dark.
- Shake the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning and prevent the squash from sticking together.
- Season to taste before serving. A final pinch of kosher salt enhances the natural sweetness of the butternut squash and balances the warm cinnamon and maple flavors.
