Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries is a perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and a little bit tart. The Brussels sprouts get caramelized with a sticky orange and maple syrup glaze that makes them taste a little magical, while the cranberries add a pop of color and a burst of juicy tartness.
I love making this dish because it feels like a fancy treat but is really easy to whip up. The glaze is sweet without being too much, and the tart cranberries balance everything out nicely. Plus, roasting the Brussels sprouts brings out the best flavor, and I always notice how the maple syrup helps them caramelize to just the right crispiness.
My favorite way to serve these is alongside a simple roasted chicken or even just with some crusty bread. Whenever I bring this to a holiday meal or dinner with friends, it’s always the first side to disappear! It’s a great way to make Brussels sprouts something everyone looks forward to eating.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh, firm Brussels sprouts with bright green leaves work best. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen Brussels sprouts can be roasted too, but they may be less crispy.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives the glaze a natural sweetness and depth. If maple is not available, honey works well as a substitute.
Orange Zest and Juice: Fresh orange adds brightness and tang. Avoid bottled juice if possible for fresher flavor. You can also use lemon or lime juice for a different citrus twist.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries add tartness and color contrast. If you want less sweetness, try fresh cranberries sautéed briefly or substitute with dried cherries.
Butter (Optional): Adding butter enriches the glaze, but for a dairy-free dish, skip it or use a plant-based alternative like coconut oil.
How Do I Get Crispy, Not Soggy, Brussels Sprouts?
Roasting Brussels sprouts right is key to that perfect crispy outside and tender inside texture. Here’s my method:
- Trim and halve the sprouts so they cook evenly and get plenty of caramelized surface.
- Toss them well in olive oil and spread out on the pan with cut-side down to maximize browning.
- Roast at a high temperature (400°F/200°C) to encourage crispness without overcooking.
- Stir halfway through to brown all sides but don’t overcrowd the pan—gives steam, not crispiness.
- Add glaze only after roasting; this keeps the sprouts from getting soggy in the oven.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large baking sheet – perfect for roasting Brussels sprouts evenly and getting that nice caramelized edge.
- Mixing bowl – handy for tossing the sprouts with oil and glaze without making a mess.
- Small saucepan – for warming and thickening the orange maple glaze smoothly.
- Zester or grater – to easily get fresh orange zest, which brightens up the dish.
- Tongs or a large spoon – helpful for tossing the sprouts gently with the glaze and cranberries.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked crispy bacon or pancetta for a salty crunch that contrasts well with the sweet glaze.
- Swap dried cranberries for pomegranate seeds for a juicy burst and fresh texture.
- Mix in chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to add a nutty crunch and extra depth.
- Stir in a pinch of chili flakes to give the dish a gentle spicy kick if you want some heat.
Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brussels Sprouts:
- 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Orange Maple Glaze:
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- Zest and juice of 1 medium orange
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for richer glaze)
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to roast the Brussels sprouts, plus a few extra minutes to prepare the glaze and toss everything together. You’re looking at around 35 minutes total before enjoying this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Roast the Brussels Sprouts:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, toss the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated. Spread them out cut-side down on the baking sheet in a single layer.
Roast the sprouts for 20-25 minutes. They should become tender inside and develop a nice brown caramelized surface. Stir halfway through the roasting time if you want them evenly browned.
2. Make the Orange Maple Glaze:
While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare your glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, mix the maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, ground cinnamon, and ground ginger. Stir occasionally and cook for about 3-5 minutes, until the glaze thickens slightly.
If you like a richer flavor, stir in the butter now and then remove the pan from heat.
3. Combine and Serve:
Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm orange maple glaze over the sprouts and toss gently to coat them evenly.
Add the dried cranberries and, if you want, the chopped nuts. Toss lightly again to mix everything.
Serve your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries warm, garnished with a little extra orange zest or fresh herbs like parsley if you like. Perfect for holidays or any meal that needs a sweet, tangy, and colorful side!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before roasting to avoid excess moisture, which can prevent crispiness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Simply skip the butter or substitute it with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine to keep the glaze rich and dairy-free.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Roast the Brussels sprouts and make the glaze in advance. Store separately in the fridge and combine just before serving. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stove.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to maintain crispness rather than the microwave.
