Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries is a delicious mix of sweet, tangy, and a little bit tart all in one dish. The Brussels sprouts get a lovely caramelized glaze from fresh orange juice and maple syrup, while the cranberries add a burst of color and a bright, fruity punch. It’s a perfect side that feels special but is surprisingly easy to make.
I love how the glaze makes the Brussels sprouts a little shiny and sweet without hiding their natural flavor. The cranberries bring in just the right pop and a bit of tartness that keeps everything balanced. Whenever I make this, it’s a hit—there’s always a few extra bites sneaked before it even hits the table.
My favorite way to serve this is alongside a simple roast chicken or turkey—it’s like a little holiday party on your plate any time of the year. Plus, if you make it ahead and warm it up, the flavors blend even better. It’s one of those dishes that makes me feel like I’m treating myself while still eating something healthy and fresh.
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh sprouts give the best texture and flavor. Look for small to medium sprouts for tenderness. If fresh aren’t available, frozen works but may be softer. Halving them helps with even roasting and caramelization.
Bacon: Adds smoky crunch and richness. For a vegetarian swap, try smoked tempeh or omit it and add toasted nuts for texture. Bacon fat also flavors the onions, so consider a little olive oil if skipping bacon.
Maple Syrup & Orange Juice: These create the sweet-tangy glaze. Pure maple syrup is best, but honey or agave can substitute. Fresh orange juice brightens the dish—bottled juice works in a pinch but fresh zest adds essential flavor boost.
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen both shine here. They bring a tart pop that balances the sweetness. If cranberries are hard to find, dried cranberries or red currants are good alternatives.
How Do You Get Crispy, Caramelized Brussels Sprouts Without Them Getting Soggy?
Roasting is key for crisp, flavorful sprouts. Here’s what works well:
- Trim and halve sprouts so they cook evenly.
- Toss with oil, salt, and pepper to coat all surfaces.
- Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet—crowding makes them steam and get soggy.
- Roast at a high temperature (around 400°F/200°C) to encourage caramelization.
- Stir once halfway through cooking to brown evenly.
After roasting, adding the glaze and bacon aroma over medium heat lets the flavors meld without losing that crisp texture. This step also helps the glaze stick nicely to the sprouts.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large baking sheet – perfect for roasting Brussels sprouts in an even layer for crispiness.
- Large skillet – I use it to cook bacon and make the orange maple glaze all in one pan.
- Sharp knife – essential for trimming and halving Brussels sprouts quickly and safely.
- Mixing bowl – handy for tossing Brussels sprouts with oil and seasoning before roasting.
- Citrus zester or grater – adds fresh orange zest easily to brighten the glaze.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon with toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunchy vegetarian version with a nutty flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese or feta before serving to introduce creamy, tangy notes.
- Stir in chopped fresh thyme or rosemary during glazing for an herby twist that complements the citrus.
- Use pomegranate seeds instead of cranberries for a juicy pop and a bit more sweetness.
Orange Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon salt (more to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and 25 minutes for cooking, making it roughly 35 minutes total. Most of the time is roasting the Brussels sprouts and then simmering the glaze—perfect for a quick yet flavorful side dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Roasting the Brussels Sprouts:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large 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. Roast for about 20 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy on the edges.
2. Cooking the Bacon and Making the Glaze:
While the sprouts roast, cook the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and leave the bacon fat in the pan. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Toss in the cranberries and cook for 2-3 minutes until they start softening. Stir in the maple syrup, orange juice, zest, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Let the glaze cook down and thicken for 3-4 minutes.
3. Combining Everything:
Add the roasted Brussels sprouts and cooked bacon back into the skillet. Toss gently so the glaze coats everything evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts for This Recipe?
Yes! If using frozen Brussels sprouts, thaw them completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before roasting. This helps them crisp up better in the oven.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch, or smoked tempeh for a similar smoky flavor. You can also skip it altogether and add a bit more olive oil.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can roast the Brussels sprouts and make the glaze a day ahead. Combine and toss everything just before serving, then warm it on the stove to freshen up the flavors.
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