Wash hands with soap and water.

Preheat oven to 400 °F.

Cut acorn squash in half and scoop out seeds.

Fill a baking pan with about 1/2 inch of water.

Place the squash in the pan, flesh side up. If they are lopsided, slice the underside horizontally so the bottom sits flat on the pan.

Add 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (or ground pepper if you prefer a savory flavor) to each half and spread evenly across the flesh.

Bake for about 1 hour, or until flesh is tender.