Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I prepped for the upcoming holiday gathering, the scent of sautéing garlic tore me away from my list of forgotten ingredients, igniting a craving for something special. That’s when I stumbled upon this gem: Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries. This stunning side dish doesn’t just look festive; it plays incredibly well with the seasonal flavors we all adore. Imagine caramelized Brussels sprouts drizzled in a whisper of citrusy maple goodness, perfectly balanced by the tartness of chewy cranberries. What’s more, this dish comes together in a flash and is gluten-free, making it a crowd-pleaser for any holiday table. Ready to elevate your holiday spread? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that might just become your new go-to! Why Are These Brussels Sprouts Exceptional? Unique Twist: These Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries are far from ordinary, transforming a typical side dish into a festive masterpiece. Quick Prep Time: Whip up this vibrant dish in no time, perfect for busy holiday schedules or last-minute gatherings. Gluten-Free Delight: Enjoy the peace of mind knowing this recipe caters to gluten-free diets, making it inclusive for all your guests. Flavor Harmony: The combination of sweet maple glaze and tart cranberries creates a delightful contrast that elevates the humble Brussels sprout to star status. Serve Any Time: Beyond holidays, these sprouts can brighten any dinner table, making it versatile enough for potlucks or casual meals—just like my Garlic Butter Pasta recipe. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With its vibrant colors and mouthwatering flavors, this dish is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters, making it a must-try! Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Ingredients • Get ready to create a festive sensation with these tasty ingredients! For the Brussels Sprouts Brussels Sprouts – 1½ pounds, trimmed and halved. Fresh sprouts add earthy flavor and better texture for this delightful recipe. Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons. Essential for roasting; melted butter or non-stick spray work as great substitutes. Salt and Pepper – To taste. Freshly cracked enhances natural flavors wonderfully. For the Glaze Maple Syrup – 3 tablespoons. Naturally sweet; swap for honey if you desire a different twist in your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries. Orange Juice – 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed. Brings brightness to the dish; steer clear of concentrates for the best taste. Orange Zest – 1 teaspoon. Adds concentrated citrus flavor; be sure to avoid the bitter white pith. Dijon Mustard – 1 teaspoon. Provides a tangy balance; omit for a milder flavor profile. Butter – 1 tablespoon, melted. Boosts richness; substitute with plant-based oil for a vegan option. Garlic – 1 clove, minced. For a savory kick that beautifully complements the sweetness. For Garnish and Crunch Dried Cranberries – ½ cup. Offers a delightful tart contrast; you can use raisins or pomegranate arils as substitutes. Toasted Pecans or Walnuts – ¼ cup, chopped (optional). Adds a crunchy texture; feel free to omit for a nut-free version or swap with sunflower seeds. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Step 1: Roast the Brussels Sprouts Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet, cut side down. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the sprouts are golden brown and crispy. Step 2: Make the Orange Maple Glaze While the Brussels sprouts roast, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together the maple syrup, freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, Dijon mustard, melted butter, and minced garlic. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside. Step 3: Combine and Garnish Once the Brussels sprouts are done roasting, transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle the prepared orange maple glaze over the top and gently toss to coat all the sprouts evenly. Finish the dish by sprinkling dried cranberries and chopped toasted nuts on top for added texture. Serve warm as a delightful accompaniment to your holiday table. Storage Tips for Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Fridge: Store leftover Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture, so you can enjoy them again later. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sprouts without the glaze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or use the microwave, reheating in short bursts to avoid sogginess. Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the Brussels sprouts a day in advance, store them without the glaze, and add the orange maple glaze just before serving for a fresh, delightful taste. Expert Tips for Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Even Roasting: Ensure Brussels sprouts are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, preventing that crispy texture. Glaze Timing: Drizzle the orange maple glaze after roasting to avoid burning. Applying it too early can cause it to caramelize excessively. Fresh is Best: For optimal flavor and texture in your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries, always choose fresh Brussels sprouts. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before roasting. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of maple syrup based on your taste preference, and experiment with adding more citrus zest for a brighter flavor. Optional Additions: If you’re looking to add a savory twist, consider mixing in crispy bacon or pancetta just before serving, complementing the sweetness of the glaze beautifully. Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Variations Feel free to explore exciting twists on this classic recipe that will tantalize your taste buds! Savory Addition: Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a delicious, smoky flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the glaze. The crispy bits bring a delightful contrast to each bite! Nut-Free Option: Swap out nuts for seeds, such as sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, for a crunchy topping that’s safe for those with nut allergies. This keeps the texture enjoyable while being more inclusive. Fruit Variation: Experiment with different dried fruits, like raisins or dried cherries, instead of cranberries. This simple swap can create a unique flavor profile that might surprise your guests. Heat it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that balances the sweetness of the maple glaze. Just a little kick can elevate the dish to new heights! Herb Infusion: Incorporate some fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, into your roasted Brussels sprouts for a flavor boost. The earthy aroma during roasting marries beautifully with the glaze. Vegan Delight: For a vegan twist, replace butter with coconut oil in the glaze. The subtle coconut flavor adds a lovely twist while keeping it plant-based. Zesty Alternative: Mix in some lime juice along with the orange juice for a citrusy twist; this will brighten the flavors even further. Your taste buds will dance with joy! Maple Alternatives: Try using honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a differently sweetened glaze. Each option brings its unique flavor, creating a lovely variation on the classic. For those looking for more delicious ideas, try whipping up my Honey Glazed Salmon or serving these Brussels sprouts alongside Orange Glazed Salmon for a delightful feast! What to Serve with Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Elevate your holiday feast with delicious pairings that complement the festive flavors of your vibrant side dish. Herb-Roasted Turkey: A classic main dish that balances the sweetness with savory depth, making every bite harmonious. A golden, roasted turkey infused with herbs will be the star of the table. Pairing this with the Brussels sprouts creates a delightful contrast that brings out the best of both dishes. Savory Stuffing: Fluffy and fragrant, stuffing enhances your meal with savory undertones that perfectly offset the sweet glaze of the Brussels sprouts. This dish captures the essence of holiday comfort, adding warmth and heartiness alongside your colorful side. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, these potatoes provide a soothing texture to the crispy sprouts featuring a pop of sweetness. Rich and buttery mashed potatoes will warm your soul, inviting guests to savor this delightful contrast in every forkful. Cranberry Sauce: This tart condiment echoes the cranberries in your dish, creating a refreshing burst that ties everything together beautifully. Its zingy flavor helps cleanse the palate, ensuring every bite of the meal stays exciting and balanced. Warm Dinner Rolls: Light and fluffy rolls are perfect for mopping up the glaze, offering an inviting texture as complements to the sweet and savory mix. These rolls can be enjoyed plain or smeared with a touch of butter, making them a versatile addition to any holiday gathering. Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, fragrant beverage is the perfect drink to pair with your meal, wrapping the flavors of fall in every sip. Imagine the aroma filling your home, delighting friends and family as they gather around the table smiling and enjoying the cozy vibes. Pumpkin Pie: A classic dessert that harmonizes wonderfully with your meal, offering a sweet and spiced finish that is comforting and festive. The creamy, spiced filling and flaky crust are a traditional way to round out a holiday feast that everyone will rave about. Roasted Root Vegetables: Seasonal and colorful, these veggies bring earthy flavors that will harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of your Brussels sprouts. Their textures and flavors create a sumptuous contrast that makes for a beautiful presentation and taste experience. Make Ahead Options These Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a festive side dish with less hassle on busy days! You can prep the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance by washing, trimming, and halving them, then storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, you can make the orange maple glaze ahead of time—just refrigerate it after cooking for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply roast the sprouts, drizzle the glaze, and garnish with cranberries as instructed. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll have delightful flavors that are just as delicious as when made fresh, saving you precious time without sacrificing quality! Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts? Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for vibrant green, firm heads without dark spots all over, which may indicate they’re past their prime. Fresh sprouts should appear compact, and ideally, they should be about the size of a golf ball for even cooking. What’s the best way to store leftover Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts? You can store leftover Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps retain their original flavor and texture, so you can continue to enjoy them as part of your meals throughout the week. Can I freeze my Brussels sprouts? Yes, you can! For freezing, it’s best to freeze the Brussels sprouts without the glaze. Place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag, and they’ll last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. What should I do if my Brussels sprouts are not crispy after roasting? If your Brussels sprouts aren’t crispy, it might be due to overcrowding; they need space to roast properly. Next time, make sure they’re spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Also, avoid covering them while roasting to ensure that excess moisture evaporates and the sprouts can crisp up nicely. Can I make this recipe vegan? Very much so! To make your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts vegan, simply substitute the butter with your favorite plant-based oil and skip the honey if you’re using it. The maple syrup provides a natural sweetness that complements the sprouts beautifully! Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Bliss A festive and gluten-free side dish with caramelized Brussels sprouts, a citrusy maple glaze, and tart cranberries, perfect for any holiday gathering. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Brussels Sprouts1.5 pounds Brussels Sprouts Trimmed and halved3 tablespoons Olive Oil Essential for roastingSalt and Pepper To tasteFor the Glaze3 tablespoons Maple Syrup Naturally sweet; swap for honey if desired2 tablespoons Orange Juice Freshly squeezed1 teaspoon Orange Zest Avoid the bitter white pith1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard Provides a tangy balance1 tablespoon Butter Melted; substitute with plant-based oil for vegan1 clove Garlic MincedFor Garnish and Crunch0.5 cup Dried Cranberries Offers a delightful tart contrast0.25 cup Toasted Pecans or Walnuts Chopped (optional) Equipment OvenBaking sheetLarge bowlSmall saucepan Method Cooking InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until coated. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet, cut side down. Roast for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.While the Brussels sprouts roast, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan over low heat, whisk together the maple syrup, orange juice, orange zest, Dijon mustard, melted butter, and minced garlic. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until thickened slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.Once done roasting, transfer Brussels sprouts to a serving dish. Drizzle the orange maple glaze over the top and gently toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle dried cranberries and chopped nuts on top for added texture. Serve warm. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure Brussels sprouts are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet to prevent steaming. Adjust the sweetness of the glaze as per taste preference. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
