How To Cook A Candy Roaster Squash

How to cook a candy roaster squash is simple once you know the basics.
 
Candy roaster squash is a large, sweet winter squash that roasts beautifully, purees smoothly, and works in everything from soups to pies.
 
You can cook a candy roaster squash by roasting, steaming, boiling, or even pressure cooking it, and each method gives you a slightly different texture.
 
In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to cook a candy roaster squash, plus tips for choosing, prepping, and storing it.
 

How to Cook a Candy Roaster Squash

Learning how to cook a candy roaster squash starts with understanding what you’re working with.
 
This heirloom squash from the Appalachian region can weigh anywhere from 10 to 100 pounds, so you might need to cut it into manageable pieces first.
 
The good news is that cooking a candy roaster squash is forgiving.
 
Its dense, sweet flesh holds up well no matter which method you choose.
 

1. Choose a Ripe Candy Roaster Squash

To cook a candy roaster squash that tastes amazing, start with a ripe one.
 
Look for a squash with a hard, matte skin that doesn’t dent when you press it with a fingernail.
 
The color should be a deep pinkish-orange or tan, depending on the variety.
 
A ripe candy roaster squash feels heavy for its size, which means the flesh is dense and full of moisture.
 

2. Wash and Cut the Squash Safely

Before you cook a candy roaster squash, rinse the outside under running water to remove dirt.
 
Cutting a large candy roaster squash can be tricky, so use a sharp chef’s knife and a stable cutting board.
 
If the squash is too big for your knife, slice off the top and bottom first, then cut it in half lengthwise.
 
Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp with a sturdy spoon.
 
You can save the seeds for roasting later, just like pumpkin seeds.
 

3. Roast for the Best Flavor

Roasting is the most popular way to cook a candy roaster squash because it caramelizes the natural sugars.
 
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
 
Rub the cut sides with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and place them cut-side down on a baking sheet.
 
Roast for 40 to 60 minutes, depending on the thickness of the squash.
 
When you can easily pierce the flesh with a fork, your candy roaster squash is done.
 
Scoop the flesh out and mash it, or use it in any recipe that calls for winter squash puree.
 

Other Ways to Cook a Candy Roaster Squash

Roasting isn’t the only option when you cook a candy roaster squash.
 
Here are a few other methods that work well.
 

1. Steam It for a Lighter Texture

Steaming is a gentle way to cook a candy roaster squash without added fat.
 
Peel the squash, cut it into chunks, and place them in a steamer basket over boiling water.
 
Cover and steam for 15 to 20 minutes until the pieces are tender.
 
Steamed candy roaster squash works great in soups, mashes, and baby food.
 

2. Boil It for Quick Purees

Boiling is the fastest way to cook a candy roaster squash when you need a smooth puree.
 
Peel and cube the flesh, then drop it into a pot of boiling water.
 
Cook for 15 to 20 minutes until fork-tender, then drain well.
 
Mash or blend the cooked candy roaster squash right away.
 
Just be careful not to oversoak it, or the puree will turn watery.
 

3. Use a Pressure Cooker or Instant Pot

If you want to cook a candy roaster squash fast, a pressure cooker is your friend.
 
Cut the squash into large chunks, add a cup of water to the pot, and set the pieces on a trivet.
 
Cook on high pressure for 10 to 15 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally.
 
The skin will slide right off, and the flesh will be perfectly soft.
 

What to Do With Your Cooked Candy Roaster Squash

Once you cook a candy roaster squash, the possibilities are endless.
 
You can turn it into a creamy soup with onions, garlic, and broth.
 
You can mash it with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for a cozy side dish.
 
You can fold it into muffins, pancakes, or pies just like pumpkin.
 
You can even freeze the puree in bags for later use.
 
A single candy roaster squash can yield several cups of puree, so you’ll have plenty to work with.
 

1. Store Leftovers Properly

After you cook a candy roaster squash, store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
 
For longer storage, freeze the cooked flesh in portion-sized bags for up to six months.
 
This way, you can enjoy your candy roaster squash anytime you want.
 

2. Save the Seeds Too

Don’t toss the seeds when you cook a candy roaster squash.
 
Rinse them, toss with oil and salt, and roast at 300°F (150°C) for about 20 minutes.
 
They make a crunchy, nutritious snack that pairs well with the squash itself.
 

So, How to Cook a Candy Roaster Squash?

How to cook a candy roaster squash comes down to roasting, steaming, boiling, or pressure cooking, and each method gives you tender, sweet results.
 
Roasting brings out the deepest flavor, while steaming and boiling are quicker and lighter.
 
Whichever way you cook a candy roaster squash, you’ll end up with a versatile ingredient for soups, pies, and side dishes.
 
Grab one at your local farm stand, give it a try, and enjoy the sweet reward.