Candied Roasted Brussels Sprouts

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're looking to elevate your Brussels sprouts game, this Candied Roasted Brussels Sprouts recipe is a must-try. This delicious dish combines the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it a standout side for any meal. Plus, it's simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for holiday gatherings.

Ingredients for Candied Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are the star of the show, roasting them brings out a natural sweetness. Olive oil helps them crisp up nicely. Maple syrup adds that touch of sweetness that pairs so well with the sprouts' natural flavor. Salt and black pepper are your basics for seasoning, enhancing all other flavors. Dried cranberries bring a chewy, tart element. Chopped cooked bacon adds a savory, smoky depth. Apple cider vinegar provides a tangy contrast. Finally, garlic powder and onion powder round out the flavor with subtle aromatic notes.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra crispy sprouts, don't overcrowd your baking sheet. Use two if necessary.
  • If you're out of maple syrup, honey is a good substitute.
  • Pre-cooked bacon works great for a quick prep time.
  • Mixing the vinegar with the seasonings ahead of time allows the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

These candied roasted Brussels sprouts pair beautifully with roasted chicken or turkey, making them an excellent choice for holiday meals. They also complement pork chops or a hearty grain bowl. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside a rich risotto or creamy polenta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh is best for this recipe, as frozen sprouts can become mushy when roasted.
What can I use instead of bacon?
To make it vegetarian, omit the bacon or replace it with toasted nuts for crunch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.

Candied Roasted Brussels Sprouts Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This way, it's nice and hot when you're ready to roast. Next, you'll want to trim the ends of your Brussels sprouts and slice them in half. This ensures they cook evenly and get that lovely caramelized finish.

In a large mixing bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each sprout is well-coated. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer so they roast evenly. Pop them in the oven for 25-30 minutes. Remember to stir them halfway through to get that even caramelization.

While your sprouts are doing their thing in the oven, mix together apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. This is your finishing touch that will add a tangy punch.

Once the Brussels sprouts are tender and caramelized, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle the vinegar mixture over them, then sprinkle with dried cranberries and chopped bacon. Serve them warm, and enjoy the praise!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Sweet and savory flavors blend perfectly.
  • Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy evenings.
  • Impressive presentation for holiday dinners.
  • Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
  • Kid-friendly — even for those who claim they don't like Brussels sprouts!

Ingredients

1 lb Brussels sprouts
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup maple syrup
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half.
3. In a large mixing bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
4. Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are tender and caramelized.
6. While Brussels sprouts are roasting, in a small bowl, mix together apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and onion powder.
7. Once Brussels sprouts are done, remove from oven, transfer them to a serving dish, and drizzle with the vinegar mixture.
8. Sprinkle with dried cranberries and chopped bacon.
9. Serve warm and enjoy.

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