Preheat the oven to 450°F
Cut squash and scrap out the seeds and then place the squash, cut side down, on a lightly oiled baking sheet or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover squash with foil and roast for 40 to 45 minutes, until tender. Test it with a fork.
Heat the oil a medium saucepan over medium heat or omit. Add the onions and season with salt and pepper. If oil is omitted, use water or veggie broth to prevent onions from sticking. Cook until soft and transparent for a couple of minutes.
Add garlic and oregano, sage, and thyme to saucepan and cook for about 30 seconds. Add vegetable stock and uncooked rice. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes until the rice has absorbed all of the liquid.
Remove saucepan from heat and stir in the pecans, parsley, cranberries, maple syrup, orange zest, and orange juice. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Spoon the rice mixture into each acorn squash and place back on the baking sheet.
Sprinkle bread crumbs on top with a squeeze of lemon and optional vegan cheese.
Bake an additional 10 minutes (just enough to heat through) or if you prefer a crunchy top, set oven to broil and toast until brown and crunchy – make sure to keep an eye on it!