The aroma of caramelizing Brussels sprouts wafts through the kitchen as I prepare my family’s new favorite side dish: Irresistible Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts With Cranberries. Gone are the days of bland veggies! This recipe transforms humble sprouts into a sweet-savory delight, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. What makes these Brussels sprouts shine is the stunning orange maple glaze, which coats each sprout and adds a delightful twist with tart cranberries. Not only is this dish easy to whip up, making it a weeknight wonder, but it also brings a festive touch to any table—a true crowd-pleaser! Curious how you can impress your loved ones with this vibrant dish? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Brussels Sprouts Irresistible?
Transformative: This recipe reinvents Brussels sprouts into a sweet-savory sensation that everyone will love.
Festive Appeal: The vibrant orange maple glaze gives a holiday twist that elevates your dining experience.
Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a gourmet side dish ready in no time!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, it’s sure to impress both vegetarian and meat-loving guests alike.
Flavor Fusion: The tart cranberries add a unique layer of taste that makes these sprouts unforgettable. For more delicious side ideas, try my Honey Glazed Carrots or pair them with Cranberry Orange Chicken.
Irresistible Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
• Get ready to create a flavor explosion!
For the Brussels Sprouts
- Brussels Sprouts – Trimmed and halved for even roasting to achieve that perfect crispiness.
For the Glaze
- Olive Oil – Essential for roasting; choose avocado oil as a substitute for a different flavor profile.
- Salt and Pepper – Key seasonings—adjust to your taste for the ultimate flavor boost.
- Maple Syrup – Provides delightful natural sweetness in the glaze; agave syrup can be used for a vegan twist.
- Orange Juice – Adds brightness and acidity; fresh-squeezed orange juice is recommended for the best taste.
- Orange Zest – Intensifies the citrus flavor; it’s optional but recommended for a fragrant glaze.
- Dijon Mustard – Introduces a tangy balance to the glaze; swap with yellow mustard if that’s what you have on hand.
- Butter – Gives richness to the glaze; replace with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Garlic – Minced fresh garlic rounds out the glazes flavor; it adds a savory kick that’s irresistible.
For the Garnish
- Dried Cranberries – Offer a tart burst and chewy texture; feel free to substitute with dried cherries for variety.
- Toasted Pecans or Walnuts – Optional addition for nuttiness and crunch; omit or substitute with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistible Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts & Cranberries!
Step 1: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, toss the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread them cut side down on a baking sheet, ensuring they’re not overcrowded for maximum crispiness. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender, with beautifully caramelized edges.
Step 2: Make the Orange Maple Glaze
While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, Dijon mustard, melted butter, and minced garlic. Heat the mixture over low heat, whisking continuously, until it simmers gently. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze thickens slightly and becomes fragrant, then remove it from heat.
Step 3: Combine and Garnish
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, transfer them to a beautiful serving dish. Generously drizzle the warm orange maple glaze over the roasted sprouts, ensuring every sprout is well coated. Gently toss to combine, then sprinkle the dried cranberries and optional toasted nuts over the top for added texture and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful contrast of sweet and savory in your Irresistible Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts & Cranberries!
Make Ahead Options
These Irresistible Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts With Cranberries are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week. You can prep the Brussels sprouts by trimming and halving them up to 24 hours in advance—just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, prepare the orange maple glaze and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; simply reheat it on the stove before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy this flavorful dish, roast the Brussels sprouts while the glaze warms up, then combine them right before serving. This approach ensures that you have a delicious, crowd-pleasing side dish with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Irresistible Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
- Space Them Out: Ensure the Brussels sprouts are evenly spaced on the baking sheet to prevent steaming; this is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior.
- Oven Timing: Keep an eye on the sprouts as roast time might vary based on their size; smaller ones will cook faster, so adjust accordingly.
- Nut Timing: If adding nuts, introduce them to the oven a few minutes before the Brussels sprouts finish to avoid burning and keep them crunchy.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh squeezed orange juice for the glaze; it makes a noticeable difference in taste compared to bottled juices and enhances the overall flavor of your irresistible orange maple glazed Brussels sprouts.
- Customize the Glaze: Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the glaze by modifying the amount of maple syrup based on your taste preferences!
What to Serve with Irresistible Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts With Cranberries?
Elevate your dining experience with delectable pairings that perfectly complement the sweet-savory delight of these festive Brussels sprouts.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture offers a comforting contrast, making each bite delightful alongside the tangy Brussels sprouts.
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Herb-Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-infused chicken provides a savory component that balances the sprouts’ sweetness, creating a harmonious plate.
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Garlic Quinoa: Nutrient-packed and fluffy, quinoa makes for an excellent base, soaking up extra glaze while adding a gluten-free grain option.
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Cranberry Sauce: For an extra pop of tartness, a dollop of cranberry sauce mirrors the flavors in the Brussels sprouts, enhancing the festive spirit.
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Honey Balsamic Glazed Carrots: These carrots add a vibrant color and a touch of sweetness that beautifully complements the orange flavors in the sprouts.
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Toasted Pecans: Sprinkling some toasted pecans on the side brings an added crunch that echoes the nutty element in the dish, creating textural variety.
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Sparkling Apple Cider: A refreshing drink with hints of sweetness, apple cider cleanses the palate and pairs well with the dish’s vibrant flavors.
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Winter Salad: A mix of arugula, pear slices, and walnuts tossed in a light balsamic vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts the sweet Brussels sprouts.
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Pumpkin Spice Muffins: End the meal on a sweet note with these cozy muffins—they’re the perfect festive treat that harmonizes with holiday flavors.
Irresistible Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting variations that elevate your Brussels sprouts while staying true to that delightful sweet-savory essence!
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Vegetable Medley: Add carrots or sweet potatoes for vibrant color and extra nutrients. The sweetness in these veggies complements the glaze beautifully!
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Spicy Twist: Incorporate red pepper flakes into the glaze for a gentle kick. This thrilling addition balances the sweetness with a pleasant heat that’ll excite your taste buds.
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Balsamic Enhance: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over finished sprouts for a depth of flavor. The tanginess creates a wonderful contrast, making each bite a delightful surprise.
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Hazelnut Crunch: Swap in toasted hazelnuts instead of pecans or walnuts for a unique nutty flavor. Their crispness really contrasts with the tender sprouts, adding both texture and taste.
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Maple-Free Option: Use agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a vegan-friendly glaze without sacrificing sweetness. This ensures everyone at your table can enjoy this scrumptious dish!
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Fresh Herbs: Toss in fresh thyme or rosemary post-roasting for an aromatic twist. These herbs provide an earthy undertone that beautifully complements the citrus glaze.
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Citrus Variation: Use lemon or lime juice in place of orange juice for a zesty flavor twist. This swap adds a different brightness that’s equally refreshing!
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Savory Garlic Punch: Add more minced garlic or even roasted garlic into the glaze for an extra layer of savory goodness. It’s a fantastic way to elevate the dish for garlic lovers.
For an added touch, consider serving these vibrant Brussels sprouts alongside our Irresistible One-Pot Autumn Beef Stew for a hearty meal or contrast their sweetness with our savory Honey Glazed Carrots. Enjoy getting creative with this festive side dish!
Storage Tips for Irresistible Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the dish’s flavor and texture while preserving the vibrancy of the glaze.
Freezer: If you want to keep the Brussels sprouts for longer, freeze them without the glaze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To reheat, place the sprouts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method will help restore some crispiness to your irresistible orange maple glazed Brussels sprouts.
Avoid Microwaving: For best texture, avoid microwaving as it may make the sprouts soggy. Instead, aim for oven reheating to keep that delicious crunch!
Irresistible Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts With Cranberries Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for Brussels sprouts that are firm, compact, and bright green. Avoid any with dark spots or yellowing leaves, as this indicates they might be overripe. Generally, the smaller sprouts are sweeter and more tender, so aim for those when selecting for your irresistible orange maple glazed Brussels sprouts.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! To keep your Brussels sprouts fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation buildup. Reheat them in the oven to regain that crispy texture—microwaving can make them soggy and less enjoyable!
Can I freeze these Brussels sprouts?
Of course! To freeze, roast the Brussels sprouts without the glaze first. Once cooled, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. After they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, roast straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for perfect results.
What should I do if my Brussels sprouts turn out soggy?
If your Brussels sprouts are soggy, it might be because they were overcrowded on the baking sheet, which can cause steaming instead of roasting. For next time, ensure there’s plenty of space for them to breathe. If they’ve already cooked, you can still crisp them up! Place them back in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-10 minutes until they regain some crunch.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! This dish is vegetarian and can be easily adapted to vegan by using agave syrup and vegan butter. If you or someone at your gathering has nut allergies, you can skip the pecans or walnuts and substitute sunflower seeds for a pleasant crunch that keeps everyone safe while still being delicious!
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
Very! The entire process takes about 35-40 minutes, including 20-25 minutes of roasting time and the preparation of the orange maple glaze. It’s truly a quick and simple recipe that delivers big on flavor, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions!
Irresistible Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts & Cranberries Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, toss the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Spread them cut side down on a baking sheet, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender.
- While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, orange juice, orange zest, Dijon mustard, melted butter, and minced garlic. Heat over low heat, whisking continuously, until it simmers gently. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze thickens slightly.
- Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle the warm orange maple glaze over the sprouts, toss to combine, then sprinkle dried cranberries and optional nuts on top. Serve warm.
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