Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Name: Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup maple syrup; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Light Living Recipes

I absolutely love making Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts! The combination of savory and sweet flavors creates a mouthwatering experience that elevates any meal. Roasting the Brussels sprouts brings out their natural nuttiness, while the maple syrup adds a delightful caramelization that’s hard to resist. This dish is not just a side; it’s a flavorful bite of joy that I find myself craving often, especially during the fall. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how it transforms your dinner table into a festive delight!

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-02-07T17:34:27.506Z

Making Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts was a happy accident for me. I had leftover Brussels sprouts and a craving for something sweet, so I thought, why not combine them? The sweet maple syrup pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of the Brussels sprouts, creating a side dish that's both unique and utterly delicious. I roast them with just the right amount of seasoning to enhance their natural sweetness.

One key tip I discovered is to make sure you cut the Brussels sprouts in halves for even cooking — this leads to beautifully caramelized edges while keeping the centers tender. The result is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that I now serve at every holiday gathering!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The irresistible sweet and savory flavor combination
Crispy edges with tender centers in every bite
An easy side dish that impresses at any meal
Perfect for fall and holiday festivities

Perfecting Your Brussels Sprouts

Selecting the right Brussels sprouts is crucial to achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Look for firm, tightly closed sprouts with vibrant green coloration. Avoid any that are yellowing or have developed blemishes. Just before cooking, trim the ends and slice them in half to facilitate an even roast. This process ensures the sprouts cook uniformly, allowing for crunchy exteriors and tender interiors that make each bite a delight.

When you're ready to coat your Brussels sprouts, the right oil can make a significant difference. Olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps the vegetables crisp up nicely in the oven. If you prefer a different taste profile, feel free to substitute with avocado oil for a milder flavor or even melted coconut oil for a hint of sweetness. The key is to ensure the sprouts are adequately coated to promote that gorgeous caramelization during roasting.

Mastering the Maple Glaze

The maple glaze is truly the star of this dish, providing that irresistible sweet and savory contrast. When combining the maple syrup with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, aim for a balance that enhances the Brussels sprouts without overpowering them. I recommend starting with a lighter hand on balsamic since its tartness can elevate the sweetness of the maple but can quickly dominate the flavor if overused.

If you're looking to introduce an additional layer of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the maple glaze. It complements the sweetness while offering a subtle tang that elevates the overall taste. Also, if you run out of maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can work in a pinch; just adjust the quantities to taste, as both are sweeter than maple syrup.

Serving and Storing Your Dish

Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts can shine on your table as a side dish or even a delicious centerpiece. To elevate your serving experience, try garnishing them with freshly chopped herbs, such as parsley or thyme, for a pop of color and freshness. You can also add toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch and flavor contrast, which beautifully complements the glaze's sweet depth.

If you find yourself with leftovers, these Brussels sprouts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispy edges. However, if you're preparing them in advance, it’s best to glaze them just before serving to preserve their texture and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Maple Glaze

1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Brussels Sprouts

1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
1 clove garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Mix the glaze well before adding it to the Brussels sprouts for maximum flavor.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for roasting the Brussels sprouts.

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts, olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss well to coat everything evenly.

Roast the Sprouts

Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden brown and tender.

Add the Maple Glaze

Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and drizzle the maple glaze over them, tossing to coat. Return them to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve

Once done, remove from the oven and serve hot, garnished with crushed red pepper flakes if desired!

Enjoy your delicious maple glazed Brussels sprouts alongside your favorite main dishes!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, consider adding some chopped pecans or walnuts during the last few minutes of baking. They will enhance both the flavor and texture!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Roasting Brussels sprouts can sometimes lead to uneven cooking, especially if they are not all the same size. Try to select sprouts of uniform size or cut larger ones into quarters to promote even cooking. If they look undercooked after 20 minutes, feel free to leave them in for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, checking for that golden brown color that indicates a perfect roast.

If your glaze seems too thick after combining the ingredients, thin it out with a tablespoon of hot water. This helps to ensure it coats the Brussels sprouts evenly when you toss them before the final roasting. Conversely, if it’s too runny, let it simmer on low heat for a few minutes to reduce slightly until it reaches your desired consistency.

Scaling Up for Gatherings

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for large gatherings or holiday feasts. If you're doubling the recipe, use two separate baking sheets to avoid overcrowding, which can cause the Brussels sprouts to steam rather than roast. Spread them out in a single layer to ensure they achieve that delightful crispiness, keeping the roasting time similar for consistent results.

Feel free to get creative with variations if you're serving a crowd. You can incorporate other roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots, tossed in the same maple glaze. This adds vibrant colors and different textures to your dish, making it visually appealing and adding more variety to each serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

While fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture, you can use frozen ones. Just ensure they are thawed and drained well before cooking.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan. Just ensure the maple syrup is pure and not blended with any animal products.

→ What can I substitute for maple syrup?

You can use agave nectar or honey (if not vegan) as a substitute, but it will alter the flavor profile slightly.