Easy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts for Cozy Dinners

Victoria

The Keeper of Heartfelt Homemade Traditions

The sweet, sticky aroma of maple syrup caramelizing over tender roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts is pure kitchen magic. After a long day, I love whipping up this Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts dish—it’s effortless yet packed with layers of flavor that feel anything but ordinary. The natural sweetness of maple perfectly balances the slight bitterness of the veggies, creating a side that’s as comforting as it is vibrant. Whether you’re craving a healthy upgrade to your weeknight dinner or aiming to impress guests without stress, this recipe checks all the boxes with minimal fuss and maximum taste. Let me show you how this simple glaze transforms humble veggies into a crowd-pleasing favorite that’ll keep everyone coming back for more.

Why choose Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts?

Simplicity at its best: This recipe requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Rich, sweet-savory flavor: The natural maple syrup glaze creates a beautiful balance between sweet and slightly bitter veggies. Versatile side dish: Pairs wonderfully with everything from roasted chicken to hearty grain bowls. Crowd-pleaser guaranteed: Its vibrant color and irresistible aroma make it a hit at any dinner table. Healthy and comforting: Enjoy a nutritious dish that still feels indulgent and cozy.

Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts Ingredients

For the Vegetables

Carrots – Choose fresh, firm carrots for natural sweetness and great texture after roasting.
Brussels Sprouts – Trim and halve for even cooking and a perfect caramelized edge.
Olive Oil – Helps the glaze stick and promotes crisp, golden edges on the veggies.
Salt – Enhances the natural flavors and balances the maple’s sweetness.
Black Pepper – Adds a gentle kick that complements the glaze without overpowering it.

For the Maple Glaze

Maple Syrup – The star ingredient; its rich sweetness highlights the earthy notes of the veggies beautifully.
Dijon Mustard – Adds a subtle tang that deepens the flavor complexity of this maple glazed carrots and Brussels sprouts dish.
Garlic Powder – Provides a warm, savory undertone that pairs perfectly with the sweet glaze.
Apple Cider Vinegar – A splash brightens the glaze, balancing the sweet with a touch of acidity.

How to Make Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts

For the Vegetables:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F while you line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even roasting.
Prep Vegetables: Trim ends of carrots and Brussels sprouts, halve larger sprouts for uniform cooking. Toss with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until lightly coated.
Roast Vegetables: Spread veggies in a single layer, then roast for 20 minutes, stirring once halfway. Watch for golden brown edges and tender centers.

For the Glaze:

Make Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and apple cider vinegar until smooth and glossy—about 1 minute.
Glaze and Return: Drizzle the glaze over hot vegetables, tossing gently to coat. Return to the oven for 5 minutes to caramelize the glaze to a sticky sheen.
Serve Warm: Transfer the glazed carrots and Brussels sprouts to a serving platter and enjoy immediately, savoring the sweet-savory balance while hot.

Optional: sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts

Room Temperature: Keep leftover maple glazed carrots and Brussels sprouts at room temperature for up to 2 hours, but for food safety, refrigerate after that timeframe.

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to retain the glaze’s delightful stickiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the glazed veggies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for crispy edges, ensuring your maple glazed carrots and Brussels sprouts taste fresh and delicious!

Expert Tips for Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts

Choose Fresh Veggies: Use firm, fresh carrots and Brussels sprouts for the best texture; limp or old vegetables won’t caramelize well under the glaze.
Even Cutting: Halve Brussels sprouts evenly to ensure uniform cooking and perfect caramelization on each piece.
Watch Roasting Time: Avoid overcooking to keep veggies tender but not mushy—the glaze sticks better to slightly crisp edges.
Glaze Balance: Whisk the maple syrup with mustard and vinegar thoroughly to achieve a smooth, well-balanced glaze that clings beautifully.
Toss Gently: When coating veggies with glaze, toss carefully to avoid breaking the delicate pieces while ensuring every bite gets that lovely sticky finish.
Serve Immediately: This dish tastes best warm; the glaze intensifies right out of the oven, making your maple glazed carrots and Brussels sprouts irresistibly aromatic.

Make Ahead Options

These Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and toss the carrots and Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. You can also prepare the maple glaze (made with maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and apple cider vinegar) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to roast, just preheat your oven, then roast the veggies as directed. Finish by adding the glaze and caramelizing for a sticky sheen, ensuring that your dish is just as delicious as if you made it from scratch that day!

What to Serve with Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts?

Create a delightful and balanced meal with these dishes that complement the sweet, savory notes of your vegetables.

Roasted Chicken: Juicy, herb-seasoned chicken pairs perfectly, amplifying the dish’s comforting warmth and adding a hearty element.
Quinoa Salad: A light, nutty quinoa salad with fresh herbs brings a refreshing contrast and boosts the meal’s overall nutrition.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a rich, velvety texture that perfectly complements the crispness of the glazed veggies.
Walnut and Cranberry Rice Pilaf: The crunchy walnuts and sweet cranberries enhance both taste and texture, making every bite a flavor adventure.
Grilled Salmon: The smoky richness of grilled salmon beautifully offsets the sweet glaze, creating a wonderfully balanced plate.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts Chips: For a fun twist, serve crispy Brussels sprout chips on the side for an extra crunch that everyone will love.
Sparkling Apple Cider: Toast with a glass of sparkling apple cider; its sweet, effervescent bubbles enhance the meal’s cozy vibe.
Pumpkin Pie: Finish with a slice of homemade pumpkin pie; its spiced sweetness aligns beautifully with the flavors of your main dish for a comforting conclusion.

Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts Variations

Feel free to elevate this delightful recipe by customizing with these enticing variations that will excite your taste buds.

Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans just before serving for an added layer of texture that pairs splendidly with the tender veggies.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary over the veggies before roasting to infuse aromatic flavors, transforming each bite into a fragrant delight.
Citrus Zest: Add a dash of lemon or orange zest to the glaze for a bright, refreshing twist that enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.
Honey Alternative: Use honey instead of maple syrup for a different, yet equally delicious sweet flavor—great for those who prefer a milder sweetness.
Savory Twist: Incorporate crumbled feta or goat cheese on top after roasting for a creamy, savory contrast to the sweet caramelized veggies.
Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic reduction over the finished dish for a tangy sweetness that beautifully complements the natural flavors of the carrots and Brussels sprouts.
Roasted Garlic: Add a few cloves of whole garlic to the veggie mix before roasting; they will soften and sweeten, creating a rich layer of flavor in every bite.

Experiment with these variations to find your perfect combination, making this dish uniquely yours!

Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts Recipe FAQs

How do I know when my carrots and Brussels sprouts are fresh enough for this recipe?
Look for firm carrots without dark spots or cracks, and bright green Brussels sprouts with tight, compact leaves. Avoid any veggies that are wilted or have soft spots, as freshness is key for crisp roasting and perfect glaze absorption.

Can I store leftover Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts, and for how long?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a moderate oven temperature (around 350°F) to revive their caramelized edges without drying out the glaze or veggies.

Is it possible to freeze Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts? How should I do it?
Yes, and I recommend it to save time! First, let the veggies cool completely after glazing. Then, spread them on a baking sheet to freeze individually for 1-2 hours to prevent clumping. Transfer the frozen pieces to a freezer-safe bag or container, seal tightly, and store for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes to bring back that perfect texture.

What if my glaze isn’t sticky enough or too runny?
If your glaze feels too thin, add a little more maple syrup and whisk it well to thicken. Baking the veggies longer with the glaze also helps caramelize and intensify stickiness. Conversely, if it’s too thick or clumpy, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or water and stir until smooth. The goal is a glaze that clings beautifully without dripping off.

Are Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussels Sprouts safe for pets or any common allergy concerns?
While the ingredients are generally safe for humans, maple syrup, mustard, and vinegar aren’t recommended for pets—especially dogs and cats. Also, those with mustard allergies should omit or substitute Dijon mustard with a mild alternative like a small amount of honey or a pinch of cinnamon to maintain complexity without allergens.