Maple-Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts — Air Fryer or Oven

This Maple Balsamic Brussels Sprouts recipe is an easy, flavorful side dish made with only six ingredients. The combination of sweet maple syrup and tangy balsamic vinegar gives these roasted Brussels sprouts a wonderful sweet-and-salty glaze. You can roast them in the oven or crisp them up in an air fryer. This recipe is low calorie, gluten-free, and vegetarian — use regular or sugar-free maple syrup to suit your needs. Let’s make them!

Balsamic Maple Brussels Sprouts are a Must-Make

“Maple syrup and balsamic vinegar make a fantastic pairing. You’ll love this glaze on roasted Brussels sprouts. It’s simple enough for weeknights and special enough for holiday dinners like Thanksgiving and Christmas.”

Air Fryer or Oven Roasted

This recipe works perfectly in either an air fryer or the oven. Both methods produce Brussels sprouts that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Any Time of Year

Brussels sprouts are available year-round, and the maple-balsamic glaze makes them a delicious choice for everyday meals or special occasions. They’re even a great way to get picky eaters to enjoy more vegetables.

Healthy

This is a healthy side: low calorie, low carb, gluten-free, and vegetarian. Brussels sprouts are rich in vitamins and minerals such as potassium, iron, magnesium, and vitamin C. For a keto-friendly version, swap the maple syrup for a sugar-free maple substitute.

What You’ll Need

Ingredients used in this recipe:

• Brussels sprouts — fresh is best. Trim the ends and remove any yellow or damaged leaves.
• Olive oil — extra virgin is fine if you prefer.
• Kosher salt — if using table salt, start with half the amount and adjust after cooking.
• Ground black pepper
• Balsamic vinegar — a balsamic glaze can be used but is sweeter; adjust maple syrup accordingly.
• Pure maple syrup — use regular or sugar-free maple syrup depending on your preference.

Substitutions and Variations

Ways to vary this recipe:

• Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
• Toss with finely chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.
• Garnish with chives or thinly sliced onions for extra flavor and texture.

How to Serve

Serving suggestions and tips:

• Adjust salt and pepper to taste right before serving.
• Serve immediately — the sprouts lose crispness as they sit.
• Elevate the dish with crumbled bacon, shredded Parmesan, or goat cheese. For crunch, add candied pecans or toasted slivered almonds.
• Pair with roast pork, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.

• All air fryers and ovens vary in heat output. Monitor cooking times and adjust as needed.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan or air fryer basket to prevent steaming. Roast in a single layer for the best caramelization.
• Flip or shake the sprouts halfway through cooking to promote even charring and crispiness.

Roasting or steaming are both healthy methods. Roasting uses a small amount of olive oil for flavor and caramelization, while steaming uses only water.

Avoid overcrowding the pan so moisture can escape and the sprouts can brown. Place cut sprouts cut-side down on the sheet for better caramelization. Look for crispy, charred edges for the best texture and flavor.

Seasoning with salt and proper roasting helps reduce bitterness. If desired, soak sprouts in salted water for 20 minutes before roasting, then rinse and proceed with the recipe.

Maple Balsamic Glaze Brussels Sprouts (Air Fryer or Oven)

Course Vegetable Recipes

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 128 kcal

Ingredients

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts (trimmed and halved)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (regular or sugar-free)

Instructions

Season

• In a medium bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
• To air fry: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F. Place sprouts in a single layer and air fry 12–15 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crisp outside and tender inside. (Times vary by model.)
• To oven roast: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Spread sprouts on a parchment-lined sheet and roast 20 minutes, turn, then roast another 10–15 minutes until crispy and tender.
• Remove from heat, drizzle with maple syrup and balsamic vinegar, toss to coat, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve.

Notes

• See the post for extra tips, substitutions, and serving ideas.
• Variations: Add spices, herbs, or nuts to personalize the dish.
• Top tip: Air fryer times are estimates — check at 10 minutes and continue until desired doneness.
• Serving suggestions: Pair with protein and a starch or vegetable side for a balanced meal.

Nutrition

Calories: 128 kcal
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Protein: 4 g
Fat: 7 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 6 g
Vitamin C: 96 mg

Did you make this recipe?
If you try it, please rate the recipe and leave a comment. Subscribe to the newsletter to receive more healthy recipes.

© 2025 Seeking Good Eats™