When the holiday season rolls around, and the air is filled with the scent of sweet spices, I find myself craving a side dish that’s both heartwarming and unique. That’s when I discovered the magic of candied Brussels sprouts. A delightful twist on the traditional preparation, this recipe transforms those little green gems into flavorful bites that will have you saying goodbye to bland veggies forever. Imagine the rich sweetness of maple syrup mingling with the crispy caramelized edges of Brussels sprouts, all lightly kissed with a hint of cayenne for an unexpected kick.
What’s so appealing is that this dish not only impresses at the holiday table but also fits seamlessly into a weeknight dinner routine, bringing a festive flair to any meal! Join me in learning how to create these delightful bites that will turn any fast-food cravings into an enthusiastic love affair with home-cooked goodness. Trust me, once you try these candied Brussels sprouts, you’ll never look at this humble vegetable the same way again!
Why are Candied Brussels Sprouts a Game Changer?
Irresistible flavor: The marriage of maple syrup and brown sugar transforms Brussels sprouts into a sweet sensation.
Easy preparation: A straightforward roasting technique makes this recipe accessible for all skill levels.
Crowd-pleaser: Their unique taste profile can win over even the pickiest eaters at your table.
Versatile side dish: Perfect for holiday feasts or weeknight dinners, these sprouts elevate any meal.
Nutrient-packed: Enjoy the benefits of Brussels sprouts while indulging in their delightful sweetness.
Quick and simple: With a total prep and cook time of under an hour, you’ll have a delicious side dish in no time! Give these a try and you’ll never look at Brussels sprouts the same way again!
Candied Brussels Sprouts Ingredients
• Get ready to elevate your Brussels sprouts!
For the Sprouts
- 1½ pounds Brussels sprouts – Fresh, firm sprouts yield the best results for roasting.
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil – Adds richness and helps achieve a golden, crispy finish.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt – Enhances the natural flavors while balancing the sweetness.
- Pinch of cayenne – A touch of heat that elevates the sweetness and adds complexity to the flavor.
For the Sweet Coating
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar – This caramelizes beautifully, creating that irresistible candied texture.
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup – Provides a warm, earthy sweetness that makes these candied Brussels sprouts truly special.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – Brightens the dish and adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.
For the Crunch (Optional)
- ¼ cup chopped hazelnuts, almonds, or pecans – Choose your favorite nut for a lovely crunch that adds texture and flavor.
How to Make Candied Brussels Sprouts
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Preheat the oven to 375°F, ensuring the rack is in the center. Next, place a rimmed sheet pan inside to heat up while you prepare the sprouts. This initial step helps get that perfect roasting texture.
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Combine the olive oil, brown sugar, maple syrup, lemon juice, salt, and cayenne in a large bowl. Whisk until smooth, then add the Brussels sprouts, tossing them gently until they’re fully coated in this delicious mixture.
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Remove the hot sheet pan from the oven with care. Arrange the sprouts cut sides down on the pan, ensuring they are in a single layer for even roasting. Bake for 25 minutes until they start to soften.
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Toss the sprouts gently after 25 minutes, then sprinkle with the chopped nuts if you’re using them. This will add an extra layer of flavor and crunch to the dish!
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Return the pan to the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender, golden brown, and the nuts are nicely toasted. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.
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Transfer the candied Brussels sprouts to a serving platter, sprinkle with additional salt if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy the sweet, savory explosion of flavors!
Optional: Drizzle a little extra maple syrup before serving for an added touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These candied Brussels sprouts are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time and stress during busy weeknights. You can wash and trim the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can mix the olive oil, brown sugar, maple syrup, lemon juice, salt, and cayenne together a day ahead and refrigerate it separately. When you’re ready to cook, simply toss the sprouts in the pre-made mixture, arrange them on a hot sheet pan, and roast them as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy tender, flavorful sprouts with minimal effort, just as delicious as if made fresh!
Candied Brussels Sprouts Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these Brussels sprouts to suit your taste buds!
- Vegan: Substitute honey with agave syrup for a plant-based sweetness that complements the sprouts beautifully.
- Garlic-Infused: Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the roasting mix for an aromatic boost that brings depth and flavor. The garlic caramelizes wonderfully, enhancing the overall experience!
- Spicy Kick: Toss in a few pinches of red pepper flakes to the mix for an exciting heat that pairs perfectly with the sweetness. This twist transforms your Brussels sprouts into a bold side dish!
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic glaze over the finished sprouts for a tangy twist that adds complexity to their sweet profile. This combination will dance on your palate – simply delightful!
- Maple-Mustard Fusion: Mix 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard with the maple syrup for a sweet and tangy flavor profile that will awaken your taste buds. This change brings a zesty touch that’s fantastic!
- Citrus Zing: Incorporate orange or lime zest into the coating for a refreshing burst of citrus that elevates the sweetness beautifully. Just a hint of zest brightens up the dish!
- Cheesy Touch: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast on top just before serving for a savory finish that harmonizes with the sweetness. It adds a delightful umami kick that everyone will love!
- Nutty Variety: Swap out the hazelnuts or pecans for walnuts or pistachios for different textures and flavors. Each nut brings its own unique crunch and taste, making each bite interesting!
Expert Tips for Candied Brussels Sprouts
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Choose Fresh Sprouts: Select firm Brussels sprouts that are bright green and free from blemishes for the best taste and texture.
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Don’t Skip Preheating: Letting the sheet pan heat up before adding the sprouts ensures they caramelize beautifully, avoiding soggy results.
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Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to decrease the amount of brown sugar or maple syrup if you prefer a less sweet flavor; the dish will still be delicious!
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Watch the Roasting Time: Keep an eye on the sprouts in the oven; they can quickly go from perfectly roasted to overdone.
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Add Texture: Consider different nuts for your candied Brussels sprouts; options like hazelnuts or pecans will provide a delightful crunch.
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Experiment with Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the sweetness, adding a unique twist to your roasted sprouts!
What to Serve with Candied Brussels Sprouts?
Pairing crispy, sweet Brussels sprouts makes for a delightful dining experience that will captivate your palate.
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Savory Roasted Chicken: The juicy, herb-infused chicken complements the sweetness of the sprouts, creating a balanced meal. A bite of tender chicken followed by candied sprouts offers a satisfying contrast.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness provides a luscious backdrop for the candied sprouts, while the textures blend delightfully. Topped with a sprinkle of herbs, this pairing brings comfort to your table.
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Quinoa Salad: A refreshing blend of quinoa, spinach, and citrus zest adds a vibrant pop against the sweetness of the Brussels. This light dish also introduces an enjoyable crunch for added variety.
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Apple Cider Glazed Carrots: Sweet from the cider and subtly spiced, these carrots echo the candied flavors while providing a colorful contrast. The sweetness meets with earthiness for a delightful duo.
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Pan-Seared Salmon: The rich, savory flavors of salmon pair exquisitely with the candied sprouts, elevating your meal. The slight crispiness of the fish complements the tender sprouts beautifully.
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Wild Rice Pilaf: A nutty mix of wild rice with herbs and grains creates an earthy, wholesome side that balances the sweetness of the theme. This hearty option adds texture and depth to the table.
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Red Wine: Choose a light-bodied red wine to enhance the flavors of the Brussels and the whole meal. Its fruity notes harmonize well with the sweet and savory elements on your plate.
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Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, a light and airy chocolate mousse beautifully balances the savory meal, leaving a sweet, lingering indulgence. The richness contrasts with the Brussels’ flavors, creating a perfect evening finale.
How to Store and Freeze Candied Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store leftover candied Brussels sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep them fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place the sprouts in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. This will help retain their lovely texture.
Note: Adding a drizzle of maple syrup while reheating can revive their sweetness and make them taste freshly made!
Candied Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best Brussels sprouts?
Absolutely! When choosing Brussels sprouts, look for firm, bright green ones with tightly closed leaves. Avoid any that have dark spots or yellowing, as this indicates over-ripeness. Fresh sprouts will have a crisp texture and a pleasant smell.
How long can I store leftover candied Brussels sprouts?
Very! You can store leftover candied Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them tasting fresh, make sure the container is sealed properly to prevent moisture from affecting their quality.
Can I freeze candied Brussels sprouts, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze candied Brussels sprouts, first spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the sprouts to an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen candied Brussels sprouts?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the frozen Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through. For an added touch of flavor, drizzle a little maple syrup on top before reheating to refresh their sweetness!
Are candied Brussels sprouts safe for pets or people with allergies?
It’s essential to check! While Brussels sprouts are generally safe for dogs in moderation, avoid giving them the candied version due to the sugar content. Be cautious of nut allergies as well—if serving to guests or family with nut allergies, prepare a nut-free version. Always prioritize everyone’s safety when serving delicious dishes!
Sweet and Savory Candied Brussels Sprouts You’ll Absolutely Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F, ensuring the rack is in the center. Next, place a rimmed sheet pan inside to heat up while you prepare the sprouts.
- Combine the olive oil, brown sugar, maple syrup, lemon juice, salt, and cayenne in a large bowl. Whisk until smooth, then add the Brussels sprouts, tossing them gently until they're fully coated in this delicious mixture.
- Remove the hot sheet pan from the oven with care. Arrange the sprouts cut sides down on the pan, ensuring they are in a single layer for even roasting. Bake for 25 minutes until they start to soften.
- Toss the sprouts gently after 25 minutes, then sprinkle with the chopped nuts if you're using them.
- Return the pan to the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender, golden brown, and the nuts are nicely toasted.
- Transfer the candied Brussels sprouts to a serving platter, sprinkle with additional salt if desired, and serve warm.