Carla Hall’s Candied Acorn Squash

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Rub the inside of the squashes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place on a parchment-lined sheet pan cut-side down. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until soft.

While the squash bake, prepare the brown sugar mixture. In a small pot, combine the butter, brown sugar, salt and spices over low heat. Heat until butter melts and sugar dissolves. Add the rum, if using.

When the squash halves are ready, flip them over and drizzle the brown sugar mixture on the inside cavity. Place the pan in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until brown and bubbling.