As I whisked together the fragrant orange juice and rich maple syrup, a cascade of memories rushed back—holiday feasts filled with laughter, joy, and the irresistible aroma wafting from the kitchen. This Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries recipe captures that festive spirit, serving as a vibrant complement to any Thanksgiving gathering or holiday table. The sweet, tangy glaze envelops the caramelized sprouts while the chewy cranberries add the perfect pop of flavor. Not only are these sprouts a delightful crowd-pleaser, but they’re also incredibly easy to whip up, making them a stress-free addition to your meal prep. Ready to elevate your side dish game and impress your guests? Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe! Why Are These Brussels Sprouts So Special? Festive Flavors: This recipe combines savory Brussels sprouts with a vibrant orange maple glaze, making it the perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table. Quick & Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this impressive side dish in under 30 minutes. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re catering to vegetarians, gluten-free friends, or anyone who loves delicious food, these sprouts are universally loved—just like my Orange Chicken Savory! Unique Texture: Imagine crispy, caramelized sprouts beautifully glazed and contrasted with chewy cranberries, creating a delightful eating experience. Versatile Pairing: These sprouts shine alongside any main course, from roasted turkey to hearty vegetarian dishes, ensuring every plate is balanced and colorful. Elevate your festivities and impress your loved ones with this standout side dish! Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Ingredients For the Brussels Sprouts • Brussels Sprouts – 1½ pounds, trimmed and halved for even cooking and enhanced caramelization. • Olive Oil – 3 tablespoons, essential for roasting to add richness and flavor. • Salt and Pepper – To taste, crucial for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the sprouts. For the Glaze • Maple Syrup – 3 tablespoons, provides the natural sweetness that defines the Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries. • Orange Juice – 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed to add brightness and acidity to the glaze. • Orange Zest – 1 teaspoon, for a concentrated citrus flavor; be sure to avoid the white pith for the best taste. • Dijon Mustard – 1 teaspoon, offers tanginess to balance out the sweetness of the glaze. • Butter – 1 tablespoon, melted to enrich the glaze consistency; substitute with plant-based butter for a vegan version. • Garlic – 1 clove, minced for a subtle savory note in the glaze. For the Topping • Dried Cranberries – ½ cup, adding tartness and chewiness; consider substituting with dried cherries or raisins if desired. • Toasted Pecans or Walnuts – ¼ cup, optional for crunch and richness; toasting them enhances their flavor significantly. 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 mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well-coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet, cut side down, and roast for 20-25 minutes. Flip halfway through; they should become golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside. Step 2: Make the Orange Maple Glaze While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare your glaze. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine maple syrup, orange juice, orange zest, Dijon mustard, melted butter, and minced garlic. Whisk the mixture together until well blended, then let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. The glaze is ready when it has thickened slightly and becomes fragrant, enhancing the festive spirit of your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries. Step 3: Combine and Garnish Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle the warm orange maple glaze generously over the sprouts, ensuring they are coated evenly. Gently toss to combine, allowing the glaze to embrace each sprout. Finally, sprinkle the dried cranberries on top, and if you choose to add a little crunch, finish with toasted pecans or walnuts for extra texture. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors! Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Variations Feel free to play around with the flavors and ingredients in this delightful dish! Maple Alternative: Substitute maple syrup with honey for a different sweet note and depth in flavor. Think of sipping honey on a warm toast; it adds a lovely floral sweetness that complements the citrus. Savory Boost: Add crispy bacon or pancetta for a savory depth that perfectly balances the sweetness of the glaze. Picture the satisfying crunch of bacon amplifying every bite, creating an indulgent treat that no one can resist! Dried Fruit Switch: Use other dried fruits such as pomegranate arils or apricots for a twist in texture and flavor. The burst of juiciness from pomegranates will add a surprising pop—like confetti on your holiday plate! Nut-Free Crunch: Substitute the toasted pecans or walnuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free option without sacrificing crunch. Imagine the delightful texture, plus these seeds offer a subtle, nutty flavor that enhances the dish just beautifully. Herbal Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the glaze for an aromatic touch. Herbs add an earthiness that complements the zesty notes, making each mouthful even more fragrant and enjoyable. Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat, bringing a thrilling contrast to the sweet glaze. A dash of spice can awaken your taste buds, turning this festive side dish into a vibrant flavor explosion. Vegetable Mix-Up: Toss in other roasted vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for added color and nutrition. A colorful medley makes for a stunning presentation and a wholesome addition, ensuring no bite is ever boring! Vegan Option: For a vegan-friendly recipe, swap butter with coconut oil or another plant-based alternative. This change keeps the dish creamy while making it suitable for all dietary preferences, so everyone can indulge. Feel inspired? These tweaks not only add excitement but will also ensure that your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries feels unique each time you make them! How to Store and Freeze Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Fridge: Keep leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help preserve the crispy texture of your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries. What to Serve with Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Let your festive dining experience shine with delicious pairings that beautifully complement this vibrant side dish! Herbed Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy and creamy, these potatoes provide a comforting base that balances the tangy glaze perfectly. The herbs add a lovely depth of flavor. Roasted Turkey: This classic main dish enhances the holiday spirit while its savory notes contrast beautifully with the sweet and sour Brussels sprouts. A match made in culinary heaven! Cranberry Sauce: Amplify the cranberry flavor with a side of homemade cranberry sauce. Its tartness harmonizes wonderfully with the glaze and rounds out the meal with vibrant freshness. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing choice that brings texture and a nutty flavor, this salad adds a healthy twist, pairing well with the sweetness of the Brussels sprouts. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and soft texture make them a lovely counterpart to the crispy sprouts, creating a colorful and satisfying plate. Sparkling Cider: For a festive touch, serve sparkling cider. Its effervescence and sweetness will elevate your dining experience without overpowering the dish. Mixing and matching these pairings will create a memorable holiday meal that leaves everyone raving! Make Ahead Options These Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries are ideal for meal prep! You can roast the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the roasting instructions, allow them to cool, and then refrigerate in an airtight container. The glaze can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead; just store it in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant flavor. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the Brussels sprouts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness, then drizzle with the glaze and toss to combine. This way, you’ll have a delicious side dish ready to impress your guests with minimal last-minute effort! Expert Tips for Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh Brussels sprouts for optimal flavor and texture; thaw and dry frozen sprouts thoroughly before roasting to avoid sogginess. Space is Key: Avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet. If necessary, roast in batches or use two baking sheets to ensure even roasting and caramelization. Timing the Glaze: Drizzle the glaze over the sprouts only after roasting, as applying it beforehand can lead to burning and bitterness. Nut-Free Option: For those with nut allergies, you can simply omit the toasted nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds to maintain some crunch without compromising safety. Taste Adjustment: Always taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving; the right balance enhances the overall flavor of the Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries. Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe Brussels sprouts? Absolutely! When choosing Brussels sprouts, look for firm, brightly colored green heads with tightly packed leaves. Avoid any that have yellowed leaves or dark spots, as these indicate overripeness. Fresh Brussels sprouts should feel heavy and have a slight sheen. What’s the best way to store leftover Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts? To keep your delicious Brussels sprouts fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Place a paper towel in the container to absorb excess moisture, helping them maintain their crispness. Can I freeze cooked Brussels sprouts? Yes, you can! To freeze your Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries, allow them to cool completely. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. What should I do if my Brussels sprouts are soggy after cooking? Very! If your Brussels sprouts turned out soggy, it’s likely due to overcrowding on the baking sheet or insufficient roasting time. For future attempts, ensure they’re spread out in a single layer and roast them longer until they’re golden and crispy. You can also place them under the broiler for a few minutes at the end of cooking to crisp them up. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Of course! This recipe is vegetarian and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. If you’re catering to nut allergies, you can easily omit the toasted pecans or walnuts. Additionally, for a vegan version, simply substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative. Enjoy with confidence knowing it accommodates multiple diets! Irresistible Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries This Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries recipe captures the festive spirit with sweet, tangy glaze and chewiness, perfect for any holiday table. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: Side DishesCuisine: AmericanCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Brussels Sprouts1.5 pounds Brussels Sprouts trimmed and halved3 tablespoons Olive Oil for roastingSalt and Pepper to tasteOrange Maple Glaze3 tablespoons Maple Syrup2 tablespoons Orange Juice freshly squeezed1 teaspoon Orange Zest1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard1 tablespoon Butter melted; use plant-based for vegan1 clove Garlic mincedTopping0.5 cup Dried Cranberries or substitute with dried cherries or raisins0.25 cup Toasted Pecans or Walnuts optional Equipment OvenBaking sheetmixing bowlsaucepan Method InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well-coated. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet, cut side down, and roast for 20-25 minutes. Flip halfway through; they should become golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, prepare your glaze. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine maple syrup, orange juice, orange zest, Dijon mustard, melted butter, and minced garlic. Whisk the mixture together until well blended, then let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection, transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle the warm orange maple glaze generously over the sprouts, ensuring they are coated evenly. Gently toss to combine, allowing the glaze to embrace each sprout. Finally, sprinkle the dried cranberries on top, and if you choose to add a little crunch, finish with toasted pecans or walnuts for extra texture. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 4gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 100mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesUse fresh Brussels sprouts for optimal flavor and texture; avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet and ensure even roasting. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before serving. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
