Crispy Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Crispy Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Recipe: Sweet Zesty Joy!

Roasting brussels sprouts with maple balsamic glaze brings an unbelievable depth of flavor to this simple side dish.

The caramelized edges create a perfect balance between sweet and tangy notes.

These crispy little gems pack a serious punch of deliciousness that will convert even the most stubborn vegetable skeptics.

Each brussels sprout transforms into a golden-brown treasure when roasted at high heat.

The maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness that complements the natural earthiness of the sprouts.

Balsamic vinegar introduces a bright acidic note that cuts through the richness.

You’ll want to serve these at every meal and watch how quickly they disappear from the plate.

Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Grocery List

For Vegetables:
  • Brussels Sprouts: Fresh, tender sprouts bring earthy flavor and crispy texture when roasted, choose bright green ones without yellow leaves or blemishes.
For Seasoning Elements:
  • Olive Oil: Helps create golden caramelization and ensures even roasting, select extra virgin for richer taste.
  • Maple Syrup: Adds natural sweetness and beautiful glazing effect, opt for pure maple syrup instead of artificial versions.
  • Balsamic Vinegar: Provides tangy depth and balances the sweetness, choose aged balsamic for more complex flavor.
For Finishing Touches:
  • Salt: Enhances overall taste and helps draw out vegetable's natural flavors, use kosher or sea salt for best results.
  • Black Pepper: Adds gentle warmth and subtle spiciness, freshly ground delivers more intense aroma.
  • Garlic Powder: Introduces savory undertones without overwhelming the dish, look for pure ground garlic without additives.

Kitchen Tools for Roasting Brussels Sprouts

  • Large baking sheet: Essential for roasting brussels sprouts evenly and creating crispy edges.
  • Parchment paper or cooking spray: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
  • Sharp knife: Perfect for trimming and halving brussels sprouts quickly.
  • Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for prepping vegetables.
  • Mixing bowl: Helps toss brussels sprouts with maple balsamic glaze and seasonings.
  • Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate seasoning and glaze proportions.

How to Cook Balsamic Brussels in a Snap

  • Fire Up the Oven

Heat your oven to a sizzling 425F to create the perfect roasting environment for these delectable brussels sprouts.

  • Prepare the Baking Surface

Cover a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

  • Trim and Clean

Slice off the tough stem ends of the brussels sprouts and remove any yellowed or wilted outer leaves. Rinse them thoroughly under cool water and pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.

  • Slice and Toss

Cut each brussels sprout in half from top to bottom, creating perfect caramelizing surfaces. Tumble the halved sprouts into a mixing bowl.

  • Season and Coat

Drizzle maple syrup and balsamic vinegar over the sprouts. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then gently toss until every sprout is glistening and evenly coated.

  • Arrange for Roasting

Spread the seasoned brussels sprouts cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they’re in a single layer with a bit of breathing room between them.

  • Roast to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. The sprouts should turn a deep golden brown with crispy edges and a tender interior.

  • Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. Give them a final drizzle of maple syrup and balsamic for an extra burst of flavor. Serve hot and watch them disappear!

Additions & Maple Balsamic Flavor Tweaks

  • Crispy Caramelization Secret: Spread Brussels sprouts in a single layer without overcrowding to ensure golden-brown edges and maximum roasting potential.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prep the sprouts earlier in the day and store in the refrigerator, then quickly roast just before serving to save time during meal preparation.
  • Dietary Flexibility: Swap honey for maple syrup if needed, or use a vegan maple syrup alternative to make the recipe completely plant-based and suitable for different dietary preferences.
  • Flavor Boosting Hack: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or crispy bacon bits on top after roasting to add extra crunch and depth of flavor that complements the sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.
  • Low-Carb Option: Replace maple syrup with a sugar-free maple-flavored syrup and reduce balsamic vinegar quantity to create a more keto-friendly version of this delicious side dish.

How to Plate These Glazed Sprouts

  • Cozy Family Feast: Serve these maple balsamic Brussels sprouts alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a comforting family dinner that brings everyone together.
  • Gourmet Side Dish: Plate these crispy, caramelized sprouts on a white serving platter with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for an elegant restaurant-style presentation.
  • Quick Meal Companion: Pair with grilled salmon or herb-crusted pork tenderloin to create a balanced, nutritious meal that adds vibrant flavor and color to your plate.
  • Holiday Crowd-Pleaser: Prepare this dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings, as the sweet and tangy glaze transforms traditional Brussels sprouts into a crowd-winning side that even vegetable skeptics will enjoy.

Store Your Sprouts to Keep Them Crisp

  • Quick Chill Strategy: Cool roasted Brussels sprouts completely before refrigerating to maintain crispness and prevent sogginess.
  • Fridge Storage Hack: Transfer cooled sprouts to an airtight container, where they'll stay fresh for 3-4 days without losing their delicious flavor profile.
  • Reheat Magic: Revive leftover Brussels sprouts by quickly crisping them in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes, restoring their original roasted texture.
  • Freezer Friendly Tip: Separate cooled sprouts into portion-sized freezer bags, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. Frozen sprouts will maintain quality for up to 2 months.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 190 kcal

Servings: 6

Print
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Crispy Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Crispy Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts Recipe


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4.9 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 7 1x

Description

Maple balsamic brussels sprouts deliver a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors for vegetable enthusiasts. Roasted until crispy and caramelized, these sprouts provide a delightful side dish you will absolutely crave.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ lbs (680 g) brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
  • 2 tbsps olive oil
  • 2 tbsps balsamic vinegar
  • 1 ½ tbsps pure maple syrup
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for crunch)
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries (for a festive touch)
  • 2 tbsps crumbled feta or goat cheese (for extra creaminess)
  • 4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled (because bacon makes everything better!)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Preparation: Position oven rack centrally and ignite to 425°F, establishing an ideal roasting climate for Brussels sprouts.
  2. Surface Setup: Lay parchment paper on rimmed baking sheet or apply cooking spray to prevent adhesion and facilitate effortless post-cooking cleanup.
  3. Vegetable Preparation: Cleanse Brussels sprouts under cool water, meticulously eliminating exterior debris, then slice each sprout longitudinally, creating flat surfaces primed for caramelization.
  4. Flavor Infusion: Within a capacious mixing bowl, cascade maple syrup and balsamic vinegar over halved sprouts, gently tumbling to ensure comprehensive glaze coverage while incorporating salt and pepper for comprehensive seasoning.
  5. Roasting Configuration: Strategically position glazed sprouts on prepared sheet, cut-sides downward, maximizing potential for crisp edges and rich caramelization.
  6. Culinary Transformation: Roast in preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, midway rotating pan to guarantee uniform bronzing and prevent potential scorching, until sprouts achieve a deep golden-brown exterior with crispy, enticing edges signaling perfect doneness.

Notes

  • Maximize Caramelization: Position Brussels sprouts cut-side down for crispy, golden-brown edges that enhance flavor and texture.
  • Prevent Overcrowding: Spread sprouts in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even roasting and prevent steaming.
  • Customize Sweetness: Adjust maple syrup quantity based on personal preference or dietary needs, using honey or agave as alternative sweeteners.
  • Boost Nutrition: Experiment with additional toppings like toasted nuts, crispy bacon bits, or nutritional yeast to add protein and extra depth to the dish.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 7
  • Calories: 192
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 7 mg
Jenna Hartley

Jenna Hartley

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

  • Recipe development with a focus on single-dish meals.
  • Fusion of traditional and modern Australian cuisines.
  • Food styling and photography for digital platforms.​

Education

Box Hill Institute, Melbourne

  • Degree: Advanced Diploma of Hospitality Management
  • Focus: Specialized in practical food and beverage service, responsible alcohol and hygiene compliance, legal risk management, and hands‑on experience in a simulated restaurant environment.

William Angliss Institute, Melbourne

  • Program: Certificate IV in Patisserie
  • Focus: Specialized in pastry and bakery techniques, cookery and specialty food preparation, recipe planning and costing, commercial kitchen operations, sustainable and inclusive work practices, food safety and hygiene compliance, and workplace health and safety.

Jenna is the heart of Picture Perfect Meals, turning simple ingredients into beautiful, easy‑to‑make dishes. 

Growing up around family meals in Melbourne, she trained at Box Hill Institute and then perfected her pastry skills at William Angliss Institute. She loves mixing classic Australian flavors with fresh ideas to keep cooking fun and stress‑free.

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