Looking to elevate your meal with a delicious side dish? Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Delight is the answer! These tasty Brussels sprouts, coated in a sweet maple glaze and paired with tart cranberries, provide a flavor combo that everyone will love. I’ll guide you through the easy steps to make this dish shine, plus share tips for perfect results. Let’s dive in and make your next meal a hit!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
To make Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries, you need these ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1/3 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup fresh or dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped (optional)
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
These ingredients create a sweet and savory dish that shines during meals.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap some ingredients if needed. Here are a few ideas:
– Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweet taste.
– Replace olive oil with avocado oil for a buttery flavor.
– If you don’t have pecans, walnuts work well too.
– You can use balsamic vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
– For a milder taste, skip the Dijon mustard.
These swaps help you adapt the recipe to your pantry.
Importance of Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients make a big difference in this dish.
– Brussels sprouts should be bright green and firm. Fresh sprouts have a better crunch and flavor.
– Cranberries, whether fresh or dried, add sweetness and tartness. They brighten the dish.
– Pecans should be toasted for a rich, nutty taste. Fresh nuts add a nice crunch.
Using fresh ingredients ensures your dish tastes its best. It also helps you bring out the natural flavors of each component.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Brussels Sprouts
Start by washing the Brussels sprouts. Trim off the tough ends. Cut each sprout in half. This helps them cook evenly. In a large bowl, mix the halved sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Toss them well to coat. This step is key for flavor.
Roasting the Brussels Sprouts
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the seasoned Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet. Make sure they are in a single layer. This allows them to roast nicely. Bake for 20-25 minutes. Stir them halfway through. You want them golden brown and crisp at the edges.
Making the Maple Glaze
While the sprouts roast, make the glaze. In a small saucepan, add maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Heat this mixture over low-medium heat. Stir it occasionally. You want it warm and a bit thick, about 5 minutes. This glaze adds sweet and tangy flavor to the dish.
Once your sprouts are roasted, drizzle this glaze over them. Add cranberries and pecans if you like. Toss everything together. Return the baking sheet to the oven for another 5 minutes. This helps the glaze caramelize and warms the cranberries. Enjoy the burst of flavors!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve Perfectly Cooked Brussels Sprouts
To cook Brussels sprouts just right, start with fresh sprouts. Trim the ends and cut them in half. This helps them cook evenly. Roast them at 400°F to get a nice crisp. Stir them halfway through to avoid burning. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown. The edges should be crispy, and the center tender. This method locks in flavor and gives a great texture.
Enhancing the Flavor Profile
Adding the right flavors makes these Brussels sprouts shine. Olive oil, salt, and black pepper give a solid base. The maple syrup adds sweetness, while the apple cider vinegar adds tang. Dijon mustard gives a hint of spice. Mixing fresh or dried cranberries in adds a burst of tartness. Pecans add crunch and richness. Feel free to play with these flavors. Try adding garlic or a dash of chili for an extra kick!
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
To serve, use a beautiful bowl to showcase your dish. Garnish with extra pecans on top for a nice touch. A drizzle of maple syrup adds shine and appeal. This dish works well as a side for roasted meats or as a festive holiday dish. For a fun twist, serve it on a bed of wild rice or quinoa for a complete meal. Enjoy sharing this colorful and tasty dish with family and friends!

Variations
Holiday-Inspired Additions
For a festive twist, add orange zest to the glaze. The citrus brightens the dish. You can also mix in some chopped apples. Their sweetness pairs well with Brussels sprouts. Dried figs or pomegranate seeds make great toppings too. They give a burst of color and flavor. These additions make this dish perfect for holiday meals.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options
This recipe is easy to make vegan. Just use maple syrup and olive oil as they are already vegan. There is no need to change any other ingredients. For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free mustard. This keeps the flavor without any gluten. You can enjoy this dish without worry!
Additional Flavor Combinations
Try adding garlic for a savory kick. Simply toss minced garlic with the Brussels sprouts before roasting. If you like heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top. This gives a nice spicy finish. Want a nutty flavor? Use almond slices instead of pecans. Each variation adds a unique taste to the dish. Feel free to mix and match these ideas!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your leftover maple glazed Brussels sprouts, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to seal the container well to keep them fresh longer.
Reheating Instructions
When you are ready to eat the leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sprouts on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes, or until they are warm. If you want, you can drizzle a bit more maple syrup on top while heating for extra flavor.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze these Brussels sprouts if you want to save them for later. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. They can last up to two months in the freezer. To eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat as mentioned above.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts. However, they may lose some crispness. To improve texture, thaw them before cooking. Drain any excess water. Then proceed with the recipe as usual. Keep in mind, frozen sprouts may need extra roasting time to brown nicely.
What can I substitute for maple syrup?
If you lack maple syrup, use honey or agave nectar. Both options add sweetness but will change the flavor slightly. For a less sweet option, try using brown sugar mixed with a bit of water. This will mimic the syrup’s texture and flavor.
How to adjust the sweetness of the glaze?
To adjust sweetness, add more maple syrup for a sweeter glaze. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the syrup and add more vinegar. This will balance flavors well. Taste the glaze as you mix to find your perfect level.
You’ve learned how to make tasty Brussels sprouts using fresh, simple ingredients. We’ve covered ingredient ideas, cooking steps, and tips for great results. Remember, fresh veggies make a big difference. Try adding your favorite twists, like holiday flavors or vegan options. Store leftovers well to enjoy them later. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this dish your own. Cooking should be fun and satisfying! Happy cooking!



