This petite winter squash variety has quickly become a fall and winter staple thanks to its smaller size, sweet honey-like flavor, and skin that’s easy to prep and eat. Learn the ins and outs of cooking tender, caramelized honeynut squash with minimal effort.
1. Frequently Asked Questions
1.1. What’s The Difference Between a Butternut And Honeynut Squash?
Though they look nearly identical, honeynut squash is smaller, sweeter, and less stringy than traditional butternut with edible peel when cooked. Honeynuts weight just 1-2 lbs on average compared to 3-5 lbs for full size butternuts. Flesh within their tan rind is a darker, richer orange as well.
1.2. Do You Need To Peel Honeynut Squash?
The thin skin of honeynut squash softens when roasted just like potatoes or sweet potatoes in the oven or air fryer. No need for peeling once cooked through! The skin provides nutrients and seals in moisture very well. Simply scrub the skin before cutting in half and baking or pan roasting.
1.3. Is Honeynut Squash Good For You?
This winter squash provides vitamin C, B6, potassium, beta carotene, and important antioxidants like omega-3s. With barely any fat or sodium and just 80 calories per cubed cup, it makes for a very healthy addition to your diet.
2. How To Cook Honeynut Squash in Microwave
Ingredients
- 1 medium honeynut squash
- 2 teaspoons butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons pure maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
Cut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds. Place halves cut-side down in a microwave-safe dish with about 1/4 inch water.
Microwave for 5-7 minutes until tender all the way through when pierced with a fork. Carefully drain water.
Scoop softened flesh away from skin into a bowl, mash smoothly, then serve topped with butter, maple syrup and spices.
3. How To Cook Honeynut Squash in Oven
Ingredients
- 2 medium honeynut squash
- 4 teaspoons butter
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 4 teaspoons pure maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil. Next, cut squash lengthwise in half and scoop out seeds and pulp. Rub the insides with butter and sprinkle lightly with salt, pepper, cinnamon, and drizzle with maple syrup, if desired
Place cut-side down and roast for 30 minutes. Carefully flip with a spatula and continue roasting another 15 minutes until very fork tender. The sugars will caramelize in the oven for extra sweet, nutty flavor.
4. How To Cook Honeynut Squash in Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 2 medium honeynut squash
- 4 teaspoons butter
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 4 teaspoons pure maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F.
Netx, cut squash in half lengthwise, then scoop out seeds, rub flesh lightly in oil, and sprinkle with salt, pepper and cinnamon. You aslo drizzle with maple syrup, if desired
Air fry at 380°F for 12-14 minutes, shaking once halfway, until browned and fork-tender.
Enjoy the caramelized flavor of honeynut squash all season long. This petite winter specialty roasts, fries, and microwaves in a fraction of the time thanks to its smaller size.
