Brussels Sprouts with Maple Recipe
If you’ve ever thought Brussels sprouts couldn’t be dreamy, let me introduce you to Brussels Sprouts with Maple. Roasted to crackly perfection with a caramelized edge, then tossed with pure maple syrup, crunchy toasted nuts, and sweet-tart cranberries, this dish transforms humble sprouts into pure crave-worthy magic. Whether you’re hosting a festive feast, meal-prepping for the week, or simply looking for a showstopping side, this is the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about how easy this is: each ingredient in Brussels Sprouts with Maple brings something irresistible to the table, from big flavor to gorgeous color and crunch. Choose the freshest you can, and don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite nuts or dried fruit for a personal twist.
- Brussels Sprouts: Look for firm, bright green sprouts for maximum sweetness and crunch after roasting.
- Olive Oil: The oil helps crisp the sprouts and carries all those smoky, roasty flavors.
- Cayenne Pepper: Just a pinch brings a subtle heat that balances the maple and brightens the dish.
- Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Pepper: Essential for seasoning—use enough salt to coax out maximum flavor.
- Pure Maple Syrup: The star of Brussels Sprouts with Maple; go for real maple syrup for rich, natural sweetness.
- Chopped Nuts (hazelnuts, walnuts, almonds, or pecans): A sprinkle of nuts adds crunch and a toasty, buttery dimension.
- Dried Cranberries: Their tart bite pops against the maple-glazed sprouts—don’t skip them!
- Fresh Thyme Leaves and Lemon Wedges (optional): These optional garnishes add color, freshness, and a bright finish.
How to Make Brussels Sprouts with Maple
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Pan
Before you do anything else, preheat your oven to 425°F with a large rimmed baking sheet inside on the middle rack. This step is key—it ensures the Brussels sprouts start sizzling the second they hit the pan, giving you those irresistibly crisp edges.
Step 2: Season Brussels Sprouts
In a large bowl, toss your trimmed, halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil until they’re glistening. Sprinkle over the cayenne, about a teaspoon of salt, and scant half-teaspoon black pepper. Toss again to coat every nook and cranny with delicious spice and seasoning.
Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Carefully remove the preheated baking sheet from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Pour the seasoned sprouts onto the hot pan (listen for the sizzle!) and quickly arrange them all cut side down for maximum caramelization. Pop them in the oven and roast for 15 minutes, letting them get gorgeously golden.
Step 4: Toss with Maple Syrup and Nuts
Take the pan out, then push the sprouts toward the center. Drizzle on three tablespoons of maple syrup and toss well to coat. Spread the sprouts into a single layer again, then scatter your chopped nuts evenly over the top—they’ll toast and turn crunchy as the Brussels finish roasting.
Step 5: Roast Again
Return the pan to the oven and roast for another 6 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye out for deep browning and a little charring on the edges—this is where the real flavor magic happens in Brussels Sprouts with Maple.
Step 6: Add Cranberries and Taste
Scatter the dried cranberries and a flurry of fresh thyme (if using) onto the pan. Toss everything gently to combine, then grab a taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or cayenne as needed to perfect your masterpiece.
Step 7: Serve It Up
Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a serving bowl, and drizzle the final touch—the remaining tablespoon of maple syrup—over the top. Garnish with lemon wedges if you like, and serve immediately while everything is hot and fragrant.
How to Serve Brussels Sprouts with Maple
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a good garnish! Shower your Brussels Sprouts with Maple with extra fresh thyme leaves for herby pops of green, and add a few lemon wedges on the side. The brightness from the lemon wakes up all the sweet, savory, and nutty flavors for a truly finished dish.
Side Dishes
These sprouts are perfect alongside roasted meats like chicken or pork, or served next to grain bowls, hearty fall soups, or even crispy-skinned salmon. They’re also a fabulous addition to any holiday spread, rounding out the table with color and bold flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile them onto a pretty platter and sprinkle with extra nuts and cranberries for color. Or, heap Brussels Sprouts with Maple onto a wooden board with your favorite cheeses, crusty bread, and a drizzle of extra maple for a showstopping appetizer. You could even nestle them into warm grain salads for a dazzling lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extras (lucky you!), let the Brussels sprouts cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, making them ideal for prepping ahead.
Freezing
While Brussels Sprouts with Maple are best enjoyed fresh for that iconic crispness, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place the cooled sprouts in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. Just know the texture might soften a bit after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, spread the sprouts out on a baking sheet and warm in a hot oven (400°F for about 8-10 minutes) until heated through and re-crisped. A quick microwave works if you’re in a hurry, though they’ll be softer. I love finishing reheated Brussels with a fresh splash of maple syrup and a sprinkle of nuts.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Frozen Brussels sprouts will work, but fresh give a better texture. If using frozen, thaw and pat them very dry before following the recipe. Roasting time may need to be adjusted, so keep an eye on them as they crisp up.
Is there a substitute for maple syrup?
While pure maple syrup is essential for that signature flavor in Brussels Sprouts with Maple, you can try honey or agave in a pinch. Just note the flavor profile will shift slightly, but you’ll still get that sweet-savory vibe.
What nuts work best?
I love hazelnuts or walnuts for their rich, earthy crunch, but pecans and almonds are equally delicious. Toasting the nuts before adding boosts their flavor if you want an extra step.
Can I make Brussels Sprouts with Maple ahead of time?
Absolutely. Roast the sprouts and prepare the recipe up to a day in advance. Store in the fridge and reheat in the oven right before serving for that just-roasted experience.
How spicy is this recipe?
The cayenne adds just a gentle kick. If you love heat, add a bit more; for a milder side, feel free to cut back or skip it entirely. Customizing Brussels Sprouts with Maple to your taste is half the fun!
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about Brussels Sprouts with Maple—the way sweet, spicy, salty, and nutty vibes dance together in every bite. I truly hope you give this recipe a try; I guarantee it’ll make even Brussels sprout skeptics ask for seconds. Happy roasting!
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Brussels Sprouts with Maple Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Maple Brussels Sprouts are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, with a crispy exterior and tender interior. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any festive meal!
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 1/2 Pounds Brussels Sprouts (trimmed and halved lengthwise)
- 2 1/2 TBS Olive Oil
- Heaping 1/8 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Pepper (to taste)
Maple Glaze:
- 4 TBS Pure Maple Syrup (divided)
- 1/3 Cup Chopped Nuts (hazelnuts, walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
- 1/3 Cup Dried Cranberries
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh Thyme Leaves and Lemon Wedges
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Baking Pan: Arrange oven rack to the center position. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Season Brussels Sprouts: Toss brussels sprouts with oil, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Roast the Brussel Sprouts: Spread sprouts on a hot baking sheet, cut-side-down, and roast for 15 minutes.
- Toss Sprouts with Maple Syrup, Add Nuts: Drizzle maple syrup over sprouts, add nuts, and roast for an additional 6-10 minutes.
- Garnish as Desired: Add cranberries, thyme, and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve Maple Brussels Sprouts: Drizzle with remaining maple syrup, garnish with lemon wedges, and serve.
Notes
- Make sure to adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences.
- You can customize this dish by adding different nuts or dried fruits.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Brussels Sprouts, Maple, Thanksgiving, Side Dish, Vegetarian
