The aroma of Maple Glazed Brussels with Candied Pecans wafts through the kitchen, teasing your taste buds with its sweet and savory charm. Picture caramelized Brussels sprouts glistening under a radiant maple glaze, each bite bursting with flavor while crunchy pecans add that irresistible texture.
This dish is perfect for those cozy family dinners or festive gatherings where you want to impress without breaking a sweat. Trust me, every forkful promises a delightful experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!
Why You'll Love This Maple Glazed Brussels with Candied Pecans
- This incredible Maple Glazed Brussels with Candied Pecans transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
I once whipped up this recipe for Thanksgiving, and my cousin declared it the “highlight of the feast.” Who knew Brussels sprouts could steal the spotlight from turkey?
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Brussels Sprouts: Choose firm, bright green sprouts; they should feel heavy for their size and have no yellow leaves.
Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for an authentic sweetness; it’s worth the splurge!
Pecans: Opt for unsalted pecans; roasting them enhances their nuttiness and crunch.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil elevates the flavors beautifully.
Salt & Pepper: Freshly ground pepper adds a subtle kick; don’t skimp on seasoning.
Cayenne Pepper (optional): For a hint of heat to balance the sweetness, sprinkle in some cayenne.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Maple Glazed Brussels with Candied Pecans
Preparation of Brussels Sprouts: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.
Tossing with Olive Oil and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well until each sprout is coated evenly.
Roasting Time!: Spread the seasoned sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast them in the oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown and tender.
Candied Pecan Preparation: While the sprouts roast, prepare your pecans. In a skillet over medium heat, add pecans along with maple syrup and cook until they become fragrant and caramelized—about 5 minutes.
Combining Flavors: Once the Brussels sprouts are perfectly roasted, remove them from the oven and drizzle with additional maple syrup. Toss in the candied pecans and gently mix to combine flavors.
Final Touches & Serving: Return everything to the oven for another 5 minutes to meld together nicely. Serve warm as a side dish or delightful appetizer at your next gathering!
Now you have everything you need to impress your guests or just treat yourself because you deserve it! Enjoy each bite of these Maple Glazed Brussels with Candied Pecans—they’re sure to be a hit!
You Must Know About Maple Glazed Brussels with Candied Pecans
- This showstopping Maple Glazed Brussels with Candied Pecans delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfectly caramelized Brussels sprouts, start by roasting them first until golden brown. While they roast, prepare the maple glaze on the stovetop. This sequence ensures each component shines.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts or add a pinch of chili flakes for heat. You can also use maple syrup alternatives like agave if desired for a different flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Maple Glazed Brussels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to maintain crispness.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Maple Glazed Brussels with Candied Pecans
- This professional-quality Maple Glazed Brussels with Candied Pecans relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
It was during a family gathering when I first served this dish. The moment my cousin took a bite, he declared it “life-changing,” which is quite a compliment coming from someone who usually avoids vegetables like they’re an ex!
FAQ
What can I substitute for maple syrup in Maple Glazed Brussels with Candied Pecans?
If you’re out of maple syrup, honey or agave nectar works well as substitutes. Just remember that these alternatives might slightly alter the final taste, but they’ll still deliver deliciously sweet results.
Can I make Maple Glazed Brussels ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and candied pecans in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers and combine them with the glaze right before serving to maintain their crunch.
How do I prevent my Brussels sprouts from getting soggy?
Roasting your Brussels sprouts at high heat (around 425°F) helps them crisp up nicely instead of becoming mushy. Avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet for the best results.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Certainly! Feel free to incorporate carrots or sweet potatoes alongside your Brussels sprouts for added color and nutrition. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so everything roasts evenly.
Conclusion for Maple Glazed Brussels with Candied Pecans
In summary, mastering Maple Glazed Brussels with Candied Pecans is all about timing and creativity. With simple adjustments, you can cater this delightful dish to your taste buds while impressing your guests. Enjoy the beautiful blend of flavors and textures that create an unforgettable side dish worth celebrating at every meal!
Maple Glazed Brussels with Candied Pecans
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet and savory with Maple Glazed Brussels with Candied Pecans. This stunning side dish features caramelized Brussels sprouts drizzled in a rich maple glaze, complemented by crunchy, candied pecans. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, it’s an effortless way to impress your guests and elevate your meal. Each bite offers a burst of flavor and texture that will have everyone asking for more!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 cup unsalted pecans
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the 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 the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- While the sprouts are roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat and add pecans and 2 tablespoons of maple syrup. Cook for about 5 minutes until fragrant and caramelized.
- Drizzle the roasted Brussels sprouts with the remaining maple syrup, add the candied pecans, and mix gently.
- Return everything to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, then serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
