Prepare the Acorn Squash

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Halve Squash: Cut the acorn squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Season Squash: Drizzle the olive oil over the cut sides of the squash, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper.

Roast the Squash

1. Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Roast: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Prepare the Maple Pecan Topping

1. Mix Topping: In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, chopped pecans, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and nutmeg (if using).

Combine and Finish Cooking

1. Flip Squash: Carefully remove the squash from the oven and flip them cut-side up.
2. Add Topping: Spoon the maple pecan mixture evenly over each half of the squash.
3. Return to Oven: Bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the pecans are toasted and the syrup is bubbly.

Serve

1. Transfer to Serving Dish: Carefully remove the squash from the oven and transfer to a serving dish.
2. Enjoy: Serve warm as a delightful side dish or a light main course.