Name: Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds fresh Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved); 3 tablespoons olive oil (for roasting); salt and pepper (to taste); 3 tablespoons maple syrup (for sweetness); 2 tablespoons orange juice (freshly squeezed); 1 teaspoon orange zest (avoid the pith); 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for tanginess); 1 tablespoon butter (melted); 1 clove garlic (minced); 0.5 cup dried cranberries (for sweetness and texture); 0.25 cup toasted pecans or walnuts (optional, chopped)

As the scents of spices and citrus waft through the kitchen, I find myself transported to cherished family gatherings where every dish tells a story. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries—a festive, gluten-free side dish that has become a staple at our holidays. These brilliantly caramelized Brussels sprouts, bathed in a sweet and tangy glaze, effortlessly elevate any meal, making them not just a side dish but a conversation starter. Plus, they come together quickly, ensuring you won’t spend hours in the kitchen when you can be creating memories with loved ones. Have you ever wondered how a simple vegetable can steal the show at your holiday table? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!

Why Choose Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts?

Festive Appeal: This dish brings a burst of color and flavor to your holiday table, making it a standout among traditional sides.

Deliciously Balanced: The sweet maple syrup and zesty orange sauce complement the earthy Brussels sprouts, creating a flavor harmony that’s simply irresistible.

Quick Preparation: With just a few ingredients and minimal steps, you can whip this up in no time—ideal for busy holiday gatherings.

Versatile Pairing: These Brussels sprouts go beautifully with anything from a succulent roast to a lighter salad, making them a perfect addition to any spread.

Gluten-Free Delight: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, this recipe ensures everyone can enjoy a delicious side without worry.

Elevate your holiday feast with this recipe, and consider pairing it with a refreshing Strawberry Caprese Salad for a balanced meal!

Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Ingredients

For the Brussels Sprouts
• Brussels Sprouts – 1½ pounds of fresh Brussels sprouts yield the best texture for roasting.
• Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons; essential for achieving that crispy, golden brown exterior.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste; enhance the flavor, adjusting based on your preference.

For the Glaze
• Maple Syrup – 3 tablespoons, which brings a delightful natural sweetness to the dish.
• Orange Juice – 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed juice adds brightness and acidity.
• Orange Zest – 1 teaspoon; for concentrated citrus flavor, be mindful to avoid the bitter pith.
• Dijon Mustard – 1 teaspoon, offering a tangy balance that complements the sweetness beautifully.
• Butter – 1 tablespoon (melted); adds richness to the glaze, or substitute with a plant-based alternative.

For Flavor Enhancements
• Garlic – 1 clove, minced, to add a savory depth of flavor.
• Dried Cranberries – ½ cup, providing a tart chewiness that contrasts perfectly with the sweet glaze.
• Toasted Pecans or Walnuts – ¼ cup (chopped, optional); they bring a delightful crunch—toast them for extra flavor or swap with seeds for a nut-free version.

Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply enjoy a gorgeous side dish, these Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries will bring joy to your festive gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the Brussels sprouts until they are beautifully caramelized. While the oven heats up, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Brussels Sprouts
Take 1½ pounds of fresh Brussels sprouts, trim the ends, and slice them in half for even cooking. In a large bowl, toss the halved sprouts with 3 tablespoons of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Spread the sprouts on your prepared baking sheet, cut side down, ensuring they’re in a single layer for optimal roasting.

Step 3: Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast the Brussels sprouts for 20-25 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior. You’ll know they’re done when they are tender and have a beautiful caramelized color, making your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries irresistible!

Step 4: Make the Glaze
While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice, 1 teaspoon of orange zest, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Whisk the mixture together and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until it has slightly thickened, filling your kitchen with a warm citrus aroma.

Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once the Brussels sprouts are perfectly roasted, transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle the warm maple-orange glaze generously over the sprouts and gently toss to ensure each piece is coated. For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle ½ cup of dried cranberries and optional toasted nuts on top. Serve your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries warm to enjoy the contrasting flavors and textures!

What to Serve with Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries?

These delightful Brussels sprouts are ready to shine as a festive centerpiece, but pairing them just right will create an unforgettable meal.

Roast Turkey: A classic choice, the juicy and savory turkey complements the sweet and zesty flavor of the sprouts. The contrasting textures add elegance to your holiday spread.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness echoes the glaze on the Brussels sprouts while providing a vibrant pop of color. Together, they form a lovely harmony on the plate.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The fluffy texture and buttery goodness of mashed potatoes offer a comforting contrast to the crispy Brussels sprouts. Finish with a drizzle of gravy for a perfect pairing.
Savory Stuffing: The herbs and spices in traditional stuffing enhance the earthiness of the Brussels sprouts, creating a well-rounded holiday plate. A staple that everyone loves!
Braised Beef: The rich, tender beef provides a satisfying depth of flavor against the bright citrus notes of the restaurant-quality Brussels sprouts, turning your meal into a gourmet experience.
Cranberry Sauce: For an extra touch of tartness and sweetness, serve alongside homemade cranberry sauce. The flavors will meld beautifully, enriching both your sprouts and the overall dish.
Mulled Wine: This spiced beverage enhances the festive atmosphere and pairs well with the dish’s maple and citrus notes. It makes every bite taste like a celebration!
Pumpkin Cheesecake: Conclude your meal with a slice of this luscious dessert. The warm spices complement the Brussels sprouts beautifully, creating a satisfying end to your feast.

These pairing ideas will help you elevate your holiday table and make every bite memorable!

Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and swaps for your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts, making it your own festive creation!

Nut-Free: Replace toasted nuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a satisfying crunch that everyone can enjoy.
Bacon Lovers: Add crispy bacon or pancetta for a savory, rich flavor that balances the sweetness of the glaze.
Sweet Swap: Use dried cherries or pomegranate arils instead of cranberries for a different fruity taste and texture.
Vegan Twist: Substitute butter with plant-based alternatives to keep this dish completely dairy-free without sacrificing flavor.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh thyme or rosemary before serving to amplify the herbal notes in your dish, providing a beautiful aromatic depth.
Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the glaze for an unexpected heat contrast that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Citrus Variety: Experiment with grapefruit juice instead of orange juice for a unique twist that adds a tangy flavor profile.
Maple Boost: For those who can’t get enough maple flavor, drizzle extra maple syrup over the finished dish for a delightful finish.

Pair these Brussels sprouts alongside a beautiful Casserole Ground Beef for a comforting and festive meal that your guests will rave about!

Storage Tips for Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Fridge: Store leftover Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze your Brussels sprouts without glaze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, allowing them to crisp up again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

Wrapping: If you’ve already glazed the sprouts, ensure they’re cooled completely before placing them in the container to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to sogginess.

Expert Tips for Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Fresh is Best: Using fresh Brussels sprouts enhances texture and flavor. Frozen sprouts can become mushy, so avoid them for this dish.
Single Layer Roasting: For crispy Brussels sprouts, spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than roasting.
Glaze Timing: Drizzle the orange maple glaze after roasting to prevent burning. If added too early, it can caramelize too much and lose sweetness.
Nut Alternatives: For a nut-free version of Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries, replace toasted nuts with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch.
Experiment with Sweetness: Adjust the maple syrup to your taste. If you prefer less sweetness, feel free to reduce the amount while keeping the flavor balanced.

Make Ahead Options

These Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can wash, trim, and halve the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, the glaze can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the glaze on low until warm while roasting the Brussels sprouts as directed. This approach not only saves you time but also ensures the sprouts remain crispy and delicious, making your holiday meal a breeze with minimal effort!

Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Recipe FAQs

How do I choose fresh Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When selecting Brussels sprouts, look for firm, tightly packed heads with bright green leaves. Avoid any that have yellowing leaves or dark spots all over, as these indicate overripeness. Fresh Brussels sprouts are typically available from late summer through early spring, making them a seasonal favorite!

What is the best way to store leftovers?
For optimal freshness, store your leftover Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their color and flavor. If they’re already glazed, ensure they have cooled fully before placing them in the container to prevent excess moisture that could lead to sogginess.

Can I freeze Brussels sprouts?
Very! To freeze Brussels sprouts, first, roast them without the glaze. Once cooled, place the roasted sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for the best texture.

What if my glaze is too runny or thick?
No worries! If your maple glaze turns out too thick, whisk in a little water or more orange juice to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too runny, try simmering it for a few more minutes on low heat to thicken it up. The key is to keep an eye on it and adjust as needed for that perfect sweet-tangy balance.

Are there any dietary considerations for this dish?
Absolutely! This recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. If you’re preparing it for guests with allergies, be cautious with the optional nuts—substituting them with sunflower seeds adds crunch while keeping it nut-free. It’s always a good idea to ask guests about their dietary restrictions so everyone can enjoy this festive side dish!

How can I enhance the flavor of my Brussels sprouts?
For an extra delicious twist, consider adding crispy bacon or pancetta crumbles to complement the sweet maple glaze. If you prefer a different fruit note, feel free to swap dried cranberries for raisins or pomegranate arils. You can also add some freshly cracked black pepper or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a hint of spice—delicious ways to customize your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries!

Recipe FAQs