Sweet Maple-Balsamic Glazed Brussels

Name: Sweet Maple-Balsamic Glazed Brussels
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: crumbled feta cheese or nuts for topping

Highlighted under: Seasonal Flavor Journey

I absolutely love making Sweet Maple-Balsamic Glazed Brussels. The combination of the sweet maple syrup and tangy balsamic vinegar creates an addictive glaze that perfectly complements the natural earthiness of Brussels sprouts. Each bite delivers a delightful balance of flavors that elevates this dish from a simple side to a family favorite! It's an easy, yet impressive recipe that's perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, and I promise it's going to make even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-13T11:37:30.485Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could transform Brussels sprouts into a gourmet dish. The sweet and tangy glaze coats every sprout, making them taste like candy! I recommend roasting the Brussels a little longer for an even crispier texture, which adds a delightful crunch. Pairing these with roasted meats or as part of a holiday spread can truly elevate any meal.

One of my favorite tweaks to the recipe involves adding a sprinkle of crushed walnuts or pecans right before serving for an added crunch and nutty flavor. This technique not only provides additional texture but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. You'll be impressed with how easy it is to make and how quickly it disappears from the dinner table!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect sweet and tangy balance that satisfies all tastes
A beautiful dish that looks as good as it tastes
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

      

Brussels Sprouts: The Star Ingredient

Brussels sprouts are not just any vegetable; they are mini cabbages packed with essential nutrients. Their slightly bitter flavor mellows beautifully when roasted, resulting in a nutty, caramelized exterior. Sourcing fresh Brussels sprouts is crucial; look for firm, bright green sprouts with tightly closed leaves. Avoid any that feel mushy or have yellowing leaves, as these are signs of spoilage.

When it comes to preparation, trimming the ends and halving each sprout allow for even cooking and enhanced glaze absorption. If you're preparing a larger batch for a crowd, you can easily double the recipe. Just ensure you have a large enough baking sheet, and consider roasting in batches to maintain that desired crispiness.

Perfecting the Glaze

The combination of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar not only adds flavor but also creates a delightful sticky coating. When selecting balsamic vinegar, opt for a high-quality one as the richness will elevate the dish significantly. The balance of sweet and tangy is what makes this glaze addictive, and adjusting the ratio to your taste can customize the dish further.

To avoid a too-thin glaze, ensure you’re using the correct proportions. If your glaze ends up too thin, simmering it on the stove for a few minutes will thicken it up nicely. Conversely, if it becomes overly thick, adding a splash of water can help restore the desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Sweet Maple-Balsamic Glazed Brussels dish can be served warm as a side alongside roasted meats or featuring in a hearty grain bowl. For an added touch, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese or toasted nuts on top right before serving; they add a delicious contrast in texture and flavor. I personally love using walnuts for a wonderful crunch.

For a festive twist, consider incorporating dried cranberries or pomegranate arils into the mix, which will introduce a lovely pop of color and extra sweetness. If you're looking for a vegetarian main dish option, serve these Brussels sprouts over a bed of quinoa or farro, enhancing both nutritional value and heartiness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare the Sweet Maple-Balsamic Glazed Brussels:

Ingredients

1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
3 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: crumbled feta cheese or nuts for topping

Make sure to have fresh Brussels sprouts for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Sweet Maple-Balsamic Glazed Brussels:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Brussels Sprouts

In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Roast the Brussels

Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until they are tender and crispy.

Make the Glaze

While the Brussels are roasting, mix together the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup in a small bowl.

Glaze and Serve

Remove Brussels sprouts from the oven, drizzle the glaze over them, and toss to coat. Roast for an additional 5 minutes to allow the glaze to caramelize slightly before serving.

Enjoy your Sweet Maple-Balsamic Glazed Brussels warm, and pair them with your favorite main dishes!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or red pepper flakes before roasting.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're considering making this dish ahead of time, prep the Brussels sprouts and glaze separately. You can store the cleaned and halved sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The glaze can also be made in advance and kept in the fridge for about a week, allowing those flavors to deepen the longer it sits.

To reheat, simply warm the glaze on low in a saucepan until just glossy and drizzle over your pre-roasted Brussels sprouts, which can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This ensures they regain their crispiness while effectively reabsorbing the flavors.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, roasted Brussels sprouts can turn out soggy, which might be due to overcrowding on the baking sheet. When roasting, always ensure the sprouts are in a single layer with space between them. This allows for proper air circulation and crisping. If they do come out soggy, a quick broil for a couple of minutes can help restore that desired crunch.

Another common issue is an overly charred exterior. Make sure to keep an eye on them during that last roasting phase; smaller sprouts may require less time. If you notice them darkening too quickly, consider lowering the oven temperature by 25°F (about 14°C) to ensure they roast evenly without burning.

Flavor Pairings to Enhance the Dish

When looking to enhance the dish further, consider pairing the Brussels sprouts with complementary flavors. A drizzle of lemon juice right before serving brightens the dish and adds a refreshing contrast to the richer elements of the glaze and Brussels.

Additionally, incorporating herbs like thyme or rosemary during the roasting phase can infuse a delightful aroma and another layer of flavor. Adding fresh herbs at the end can also provide a burst of freshness that rounds out the sweeter notes beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Yes, but fresh Brussels sprouts tend to have a better texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw and dry them before roasting.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan! Just ensure that the maple syrup is pure and not blended with honey.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

Sweet Maple-Balsamic Glazed Brussels pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, beef, or even as part of a festive holiday spread.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.