Maple Bourbon Glazed Brussels Sprouts Recipe Perfect for Holidays

The combination of sweet maple syrup and smoky bourbon with crispy roasted Brussels sprouts is a match made in culinary heaven. Imagine the caramelized edges, the golden-brown glaze, and the aroma of roasted vegetables with a hint of bourbon—it’s the perfect side dish to wow your guests during the holidays. Trust me, once you’ve tried these Maple Bourbon Glazed Brussels Sprouts, they’ll become a permanent part of your festive table. Even the pickiest of eaters will be reaching for seconds!

I first whipped up this recipe during a Thanksgiving dinner years ago, when I was searching for a way to make Brussels sprouts more appealing to my family. Let’s just say, they went from “no thanks” to “can you make these again next year?” in record time. Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe and made it my own, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. Ready to turn this underrated veggie into a crowd-pleaser? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unbelievably delicious: The blend of smoky bourbon and sweet maple syrup creates a flavor explosion, while the crispy texture of roasted Brussels sprouts adds a satisfying crunch.
• Perfect for the holidays: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering, this dish is guaranteed to stand out on the dinner table.
• Simple yet impressive: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe feels fancy but is so easy to make.
• Kid-approved: Even kids who usually turn their noses up at Brussels sprouts will be tempted to try these sweet and savory bites.
• Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness, spice, or smokiness to suit your family’s preferences—or even make it alcohol-free!

What makes these Maple Bourbon Glazed Brussels Sprouts truly irresistible is the way the glaze caramelizes on the sprouts, giving them a deep, golden sheen that tastes as amazing as it looks. Plus, the recipe uses simple pantry staples and is an easy way to elevate any meal without adding stress to your day.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to create bold flavors and a delightful texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Brussels sprouts: About 1 pound, trimmed and halved. Pick fresh sprouts for the best results.
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons for roasting and achieving that perfect crispy edge.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon to enhance flavors.
• Maple syrup: 2 tablespoons for natural sweetness (choose real maple syrup for the best results).
• Bourbon: 1 tablespoon to add depth and a smoky flavor. Feel free to skip this ingredient for an alcohol-free version.
• Butter: 1 tablespoon, melted, to make the glaze rich and velvety.
• Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon for a hint of savory goodness.
• Red pepper flakes: Optional, for a touch of heat.
• Black pepper: Freshly ground, to taste.

These ingredients work together to create a perfectly balanced dish: crispy, sweet, smoky, and just a tad spicy. Don’t hesitate to swap out or adjust based on your dietary needs or taste preferences!

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet is perfect for roasting the Brussels sprouts evenly.
• Mixing bowl: To toss the sprouts with oil and spices before roasting.
• Whisk: Essential for combining the maple bourbon glaze.
• Small saucepan: To gently heat the glaze ingredients and blend them together.
• Tongs or spatula: For flipping the sprouts halfway through roasting.

If you don’t have a whisk, a fork can work in a pinch. And if you’re short on baking sheets, any oven-safe dish can substitute—just make sure it’s large enough to spread the sprouts out in a single layer for even roasting.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Trim the ends and halve the sprouts. Toss them in a mixing bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
3. Roast the sprouts: Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden-brown.
4. Make the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, 1 tablespoon of bourbon, 1 tablespoon of melted butter, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using). Heat over low until well combined, stirring occasionally.
5. Toss the sprouts in the glaze: Once the Brussels sprouts are roasted, transfer them back to the mixing bowl. Pour the warm glaze over the sprouts and toss to coat evenly.
6. Finish roasting: Return the glazed sprouts to the baking sheet and roast for an additional 5-7 minutes until the glaze is caramelized and the sprouts are beautifully golden.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.

Pro tip: Keep an eye on the sprouts during the final roasting step to avoid burning the glaze. A little char is fine—it adds flavor—but you don’t want them to blacken too much!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to make sure your Maple Bourbon Glazed Brussels Sprouts turn out perfect every time:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread the sprouts out in a single layer to ensure they roast evenly. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of crisping up.
• Use fresh Brussels sprouts: Fresh sprouts have a better texture and flavor than frozen ones. Look for bright green, firm sprouts with tightly packed leaves.
• Test your oven temperature: If your oven tends to run hot or cold, adjust the roasting time accordingly to avoid undercooking or burning.
• Skip the bourbon: If you prefer an alcohol-free version, the maple syrup adds plenty of sweetness on its own.
• Add toppings: Want to take things to the next level? Sprinkle some crispy bacon bits, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries on the finished dish.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Make it vegan: Swap the butter for vegan margarine and skip the bourbon or replace it with apple cider.
• Try different sweeteners: If you’re out of maple syrup, honey or agave syrup works well too.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the glaze for a kick of heat.
• Seasonal twist: In the fall, toss in some roasted pecans or walnuts before serving. In summer, sprinkle fresh lemon zest for a bright finish.
• Change the cooking method: If you don’t want to roast, sauté the sprouts in a skillet with the glaze for a quicker option.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Maple Bourbon Glazed Brussels Sprouts are best served warm, straight out of the oven, as a side dish to your holiday turkey, ham, or roast beef. You can also pair them with mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce for a truly festive spread. For drinks, a glass of dry white wine or a bourbon cocktail complements the flavors beautifully.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat to bring back the crispiness or warm them up in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. Avoid using the microwave as it can make them soggy.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional benefits of this dish:

• Calories: Approximately 150 per serving.
• Rich in vitamins: Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamin C and vitamin K, great for immunity and bone health.
• High in fiber: Great for digestion and keeping you full longer.
• Healthy fats: The olive oil and butter provide good fats in moderation.
• Low-carb friendly: This recipe is ideal for those watching their carb intake.

Whether you’re looking for a tasty way to sneak in more veggies or want a healthier alternative to sugar-laden side dishes, this recipe checks all the boxes. Be mindful if you’re serving this to anyone with a nut allergy if you decide to add nuts.

Conclusion

It’s hard to resist the sweet, savory, and smoky flavors of these Maple Bourbon Glazed Brussels Sprouts. They’re not only delicious, but they’re also easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any holiday gathering. I love this recipe because it transforms an often-overlooked veggie into the star of the meal, and it’s always a hit with family and friends.

Give this recipe a try and make it your own—add a unique twist or stick to the classic version. Either way, I guarantee it’ll be a winner at your table. Let me know how it turns out, and if you have any creative twists, I’d love to hear about them in the comments below. Happy cooking and happy holidays!

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can roast the Brussels sprouts and prepare the glaze ahead of time. Store them separately and combine just before reheating.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?

Fresh sprouts are recommended for the best texture, but frozen ones can work in a pinch. Make sure to thaw and pat them dry before roasting.

What can I use instead of bourbon?

You can substitute bourbon with apple cider or even vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version of the glaze.

How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

Keep an eye on the sprouts during the final roasting phase and stir them occasionally to prevent the glaze from sticking to the pan and burning.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free bourbon or replace it with a suitable alternative.

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