Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Try maple balsamic Brussels sprouts for a crispy, sweet, and savory side dish! Showcasing the natural sweetness of maple syrup and the rich, tanginess of balsamic vinegar, this recipe is a must-try. Perfect for impressing dinner guests or simply enhancing your weeknight dinner, these Brussels sprouts are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make.

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Simple ingredients: With just a handful of easily accessible ingredients, this maple balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts recipe is both straightforward and budget-friendly.
• Quick & convenient: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a fast, flavorful side dish.
• Nutritious yet delicious: Brussels sprouts are nutrient-dense, and when roasted with this glaze, they're absolutely irresistible!

Mouthwatering maple balsamic Brussels sprouts

My maple balsamic Brussels sprouts recipe is the only one I ever use to prepare this misunderstood vegetable. Unlike steaming, roasting the sprouts creates beautifully caramelized notes and an ultra-crispy texture that everyone always loves.

Once roasted, they’re then drizzled and tossed with a balsamic vinegar and maple syrup reduction. The result is a side dish with a perfect balance of sweet and savory elements, complemented by a slight tang.

The best part is how quick and easy it is to prepare! It requires just 5 ingredients and 20 minutes yet delivers a burst of flavor. Serve it as part of a holiday spread alongside classics like a vegan roast, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and more.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Brussels sprouts: The star of the dish! You should be able to find Brussels sprouts at any grocery store or farmer’s market. Look for small-medium sprouts for the best flavor and texture. You can also substitute them with broccoli or cauliflower.
• Avocado oil: With a high smoke point, avocado oil is ideal for high-heat roasting. Olive oil or vegetable oil are good alternatives.
• Salt & black pepper: I like to keep the seasonings to a minimum to enhance the natural flavors and prevent overpowering the glaze. Use freshly cracked black pepper for the best results.
• Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP: My go-to for a rich and complex flavor, but any quality balsamic vinegar works here. Try to source one with a DOP label if possible.
• Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and helps in caramelization. Make sure to use 100% pure maple syrup. Agave will also work if you don’t have maple syrup on hand.

How to make maple balsamic Brussels sprouts

• Step 1: Mix the balsamic vinegar and maple syrup in a saucepan and simmer until the mixture is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Be patient while simmering as stoves can vary.

• Step 2: Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with avocado oil, salt, and pepper. Roast them at 475F until they’re crispy. Spread them evenly on the baking sheet for a uniform roast.

• Step 3: When the sprouts and glaze are both ready, transfer the sprouts to a serving dish and generously coat them with the glaze before serving warm.

What to serve with maple balsamic Brussels sprouts

Maple balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with a variety of vegan main dishes! Here are some of my favorite options: 

• Vegan rasta pasta
• Vegan red curry pasta
• Vegan Japchae
• Hazelnut soup or chickpea soup

You can also serve them as part of a holiday feast with a vegan roast, almond milk mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce made from dried cranberries, brown vegan gravy, a vegan corn casserole, and more.

Storage & Reheating

Maintain the freshness and flavor of your maple balsamic Brussels sprouts recipe by following these simple storage and reheating tips:

• Fridge: Once cooled, store the sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: I don’t recommend freezing cooked maple balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts as the texture will change too much once they’re thawed.
• Reheating: I recommend warming leftovers in the oven for the best texture! You can reheat them at 350F for about 8-10 minutes, or until warmed to your liking. 

Variations

• Spicy: Sprinkle the sprouts with red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
• Herbed: Toss them with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary before roasting.
• Cheesy: Sprinkle vegan Parmesan on top after roasting for a burst of umami flavor.
• Nuts: Add toasted walnuts, almonds, or pecans for extra texture.
• Cranberry maple: Add dried cranberries to the glaze for a fruity touch.
• Other veggies: This recipe works great with other veggies like carrots, parsnips, bell peppers, and broccoli.

Top tips

• Even halves: Cut the Brussels sprouts into similar-sized pieces for even roasting.
• Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the sprouts space on the baking sheet to ensure they roast, not steam.
• Watch the glaze: Stir the glaze occasionally and keep it over low heat to prevent burning.
• High-heat roasting: Roasting the Brussels sprouts at a high heat ensures a crispy exterior and prevents them from steaming.
• Cool the glaze: Let the glaze cool and slightly thicken before tossing it with the Brussels sprouts.
• Use quality ingredients: Good quality balsamic vinegar and maple syrup make a huge difference. Opt for the best brands you can find!

FAQ

More side dishes

If you're a fan of these maple balsamic roasted Brussels sprouts, take a peek at some more delicious vegan sides like these:

• Roasted Winter Veggies: A flavorful mix of fall and winter vegetables roasted to perfection.
• Miso Garlic Green Beans: Crisp and tender green beans packed with umami flavor.
• Dairy-Free Mac and Cheese: A simple meal made in 30 minutes or less!
• Vegan Couscous Salad: Refreshing flavors, colorful presentation, and wholesome ingredients.