Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts Recipe

If you’re looking for a vegetable side dish that brings a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and crispy textures, you simply have to try this Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts recipe. It’s a vibrant, flavorful dish that transforms humble veggies into something irresistibly crave-worthy. With a touch of smoky paprika, fragrant coriander, and a generous finish of maple syrup, this recipe delivers layers of taste while keeping roasting wonderfully simple. Trust me, once you try these crispy maple glazed carrots and brussel sprouts, they’ll become a golden staple at your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential to achieving the perfect harmony of textures and flavors in this dish. Each one plays a crucial role—from the rich coconut oil that imparts moisture and helps with browning to the spices that infuse every bite with warming depth.

• 2 tbsp melted coconut oil, divided: Helps the veggies crisp up beautifully and adds a subtle, nutty flavor.
• 4 cups brussels sprouts, halved or quartered if large: Choose fresh sprouts for a crunchy and slightly sweet base.
• 3 large carrots, cut into batons: Adds bright color and natural sweetness.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika: Brings a smoky warmth that complements the maple syrup perfectly.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Delivers savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1 tsp ground coriander: Adds a subtle citrusy note that lifts the entire dish.
• 1/3 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• 1/3 tsp black pepper: Provides a mild kick and earthiness.
• 1 tbsp maple syrup: The star glazing ingredient that creates that deliciously sticky, crispy finish.

How to Make Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature is key for achieving that irresistible crispiness on the outside while keeping the veggies tender inside. Line a large baking sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper to ensure the carrots and brussels sprouts don’t stick and cleanup is a breeze.

Step 2: Prepare and Season the Vegetables

Pop your halved or quartered brussels sprouts and carrot batons into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of the melted coconut oil—this helps the spices stick and starts the flavor development. Now sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground coriander, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together really well so every piece is coated with spice and oil. If you’re a lover of caramelized sweetness, feel free to add the maple syrup now, but personally, I like adding it after roasting for a fresher, less-cooked maple flavor.

Step 3: Arrange Vegetables and Roast

Transfer your beautifully seasoned veggies onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to spread them out evenly. Crowding the pan will steam rather than roast your veggies, so give them space to crisp up. Roast in your oven for around 25 minutes, keeping an eye out for slight char marks on the brussels sprouts and fork-tender carrots. This is where the magic happens – the exterior crisps while the interior stays irresistibly soft.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

As soon as the roasted vegetables come out of the oven, toss them immediately with the remaining 1 tablespoon of melted coconut oil and your maple syrup. This finishing toss ensures a glossy glaze that sticks perfectly and intensifies the sweet-savory contrast. Serve these Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts hot for the ultimate flavor experience.

How to Serve Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts brings an extra layer of crunch and a nutty bite that complements the glaze beautifully. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme scattered on top add a bright, aromatic finish that lifts the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

This dish is wonderfully versatile: it makes a fantastic side for roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, or even a cozy grain bowl. Pair it with fluffy quinoa or buttery mashed potatoes to round out your meal with comforting textures that balance the crisp vegetables.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these veggies over a bed of creamy polenta or tossed with cooked farro for a hearty salad. For entertaining, consider arranging the glazed carrots and brussels sprouts on a platter with crumbled goat cheese and pomegranate seeds for an impressive yet simple holiday side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, but the veggies may soften slightly, so reheating with a light sauté or broil helps regain crispness.

Freezing

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the roasted vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve as much texture and flavor as possible.

Reheating

Reheat in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through to bring back the crisp edges. Alternatively, quickly pan-frying in a bit of coconut oil keeps the glaze shiny and the vegetables deliciously crispy.

FAQs

Can I use regular olive oil instead of coconut oil?

Absolutely! Olive oil works well and imparts its own lovely flavor, but coconut oil helps create a slightly sweeter, nuttier base that pairs wonderfully with maple syrup.

What size should the carrots and brussels sprouts be cut?

Cut carrots into uniform batons and halve or quarter large brussels sprouts to ensure even roasting and consistent crispiness across all pieces.

Can I make this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally vegan and gluten-free. Just be sure to check that your maple syrup is pure and doesn’t have any added ingredients.

Is smoked paprika necessary?

While smoked paprika adds a delightful smoky depth, you can substitute with regular paprika or cumin if you don’t have it. It won’t be quite the same but still very tasty!

Can I prepare this recipe ahead for a party?

You can roast the veggies in advance and hold them warm in a low oven, then toss with maple syrup and coconut oil right before serving to refresh the glaze and crispness.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots and Brussel Sprouts recipe is a total keeper — it’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough to impress any guest. With its mouthwatering combination of sweet, smoky, and crispy elements, it truly celebrates simple ingredients elevated to something magical. Give it a try and see how it transforms your vegetable game forever!

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