This maple roasted Brussels sprouts recipe is a simple yet elegant side dish that combines roasted vegetables with sweet maple syrup, tart dried cranberries, and creamy goat cheese. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures that elevates any meal, from a casual weeknight dinner to a holiday feast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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The sprouts get beautifully crisp and golden in the oven.
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Maple syrup adds a rich, caramelized sweetness that pairs perfectly with the natural bitterness of the sprouts.
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Dried cranberries bring a pop of color and tartness.
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Creamy goat cheese melts slightly over the warm sprouts, adding richness and tang.
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It’s easy to prepare but looks and tastes impressive enough for entertaining.
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A crowd-pleasing side dish that even Brussels sprout skeptics will enjoy.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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4 heaping cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (about 1½ pounds)
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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Kosher salt, to taste
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2 tablespoons maple syrup
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¼ cup dried cranberries
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¼ cup goat cheese, crumbled (about 2 ounces)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Trim the ends off the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half lengthwise. Discard any discolored outer leaves, but keep the loose green ones — they roast into crispy bites.
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Place the sprouts on a large baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. Toss to coat and spread in a single layer with the cut sides facing down for better caramelization.
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Roast in the oven for 20 minutes, until the edges start to brown and crisp.
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Remove the tray from the oven. Drizzle the maple syrup over the sprouts and toss gently to coat.
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Return the pan to the oven and roast for another 5–10 minutes, until the sprouts are golden and the maple syrup has caramelized slightly.
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Transfer the roasted sprouts to a serving platter.
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Sprinkle the dried cranberries and crumbled goat cheese on top.
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Serve immediately while warm.
Servings and timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 25–30 minutes
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Total time: 35–40 minutes
Variations
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Add crunch: Sprinkle with toasted pecans, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds for extra texture.
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Make it smoky: Add chopped, cooked bacon or pancetta just before serving.
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Cheese alternatives: Use feta, blue cheese, or shaved Parmesan instead of goat cheese.
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Sweet swap: Try honey or balsamic glaze in place of maple syrup.
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Fruit options: Replace cranberries with dried cherries, golden raisins, or finely chopped dried apricots.
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Vegan option: Use a plant-based cheese or skip the cheese altogether and add roasted nuts for richness.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the sprouts soggy.
FAQs
How do I keep the Brussels sprouts crispy?
Make sure the sprouts are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet and roast at a high temperature. Overcrowding the pan causes them to steam instead of roast.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Fresh is best for this recipe. Frozen sprouts contain more water and may turn mushy when roasted.
Do I need to boil the sprouts before roasting?
No, boiling is unnecessary. Roasting from raw gives the best texture and flavor.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can roast the sprouts in advance and reheat them in the oven. Add the goat cheese and cranberries just before serving.
What kind of maple syrup should I use?
Use pure maple syrup (Grade A or B). Avoid pancake syrup or artificial alternatives.
Can I use another type of oil?
Yes, avocado oil or melted ghee would also work well in place of olive oil.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian. Use a certified vegetarian cheese if needed.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use two baking sheets to ensure the sprouts roast evenly without overcrowding.
What can I serve this with?
It pairs well with roasted chicken, turkey, salmon, or hearty vegetarian mains like lentil loaf or stuffed squash.
Can I omit the goat cheese?
Yes, you can omit it or replace it with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan version.
Conclusion
Maple roasted Brussels sprouts with dried cranberries and goat cheese is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that transforms simple ingredients into something special. The balance of sweet, savory, and tangy makes it a welcome addition to both everyday meals and festive holiday spreads. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this dish is sure to impress.
