I can’t stop raving about these Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Bites!
These bites have turned even the most dedicated Brussels-haters into fans with this sweet-savory combo.
The magic happens when that thick-cut bacon and maple glaze caramelizes around those roasted sprouts. It’s seriously addictive!
The hint of cayenne gives just enough kick to keep things interesting.
These aren’t your grandma’s boiled Brussels sprouts.
Wondering what secret technique makes these irresistible morsels the star of any dinner table?
Ingredients
Recommended Tools
Having the right kitchen tools on hand makes preparing these delicious Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Bites so much easier. These essentials will help you trim, toss and roast your way to perfectly caramelized bites with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
- Baking Sheet
Essential for roasting the Brussels sprouts and bacon to perfect caramelization at 400°F.
- Parchment Paper
Lines your baking sheet for easy cleanup and prevents sticking during roasting.
- Chef’s Knife
Makes trimming and halving Brussels sprouts quick and precise.
- Cutting Board
Provides a stable surface for preparing your Brussels sprouts and chopping bacon.
- Mixing Bowl
Perfect for tossing ingredients with oil, maple syrup and seasonings.
- Measuring Spoons
Ensures you get the right amount of maple syrup, cornstarch and seasonings.
- Silicone Spatula
Great for stirring and flipping the Brussels sprouts halfway through roasting.
- Citrus Juicer
Makes it easy to add that optional fresh lime juice finish for brightness.
Instructions
Let’s turn those Brussels sprouts from holiday table outcasts into the star of your next gathering! These maple bacon bites are total game-changers.
First, crank your oven to 400°F. While it’s heating up, grab 1 pound of Brussels sprouts and trim off those tough ends before cutting each one in half. Want extra crispy sprouts? Toss them with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and shake off any excess—this little trick works magic!
In a large bowl, combine your halved sprouts with 6 slices of chopped thick-cut bacon (or cut the bacon in halves if you’re making individual bites). Drizzle in 3 tablespoons of maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of neutral oil, then season with salt, pepper, and a pinch (about 1/8 teaspoon) of cayenne pepper if you’re feeling spicy!
Spread everything out on a lined baking sheet, making sure to arrange in a single layer—crowding is the enemy of crispiness! Pop that tray in the oven for 30-35 minutes, but don’t forget to give everything a good stir halfway through.
You’re looking for caramelized, golden-brown sprouts and bacon that’s crispy enough to make you weak in the knees.
For a bright finish that’ll make the flavors sing, squeeze some fresh lime juice over your creation just before serving. Trust me, this little zing ties everything together beautifully!
Serve these bad boys immediately while they’re still hot and crispy. They’ll disappear faster than you can say “Brussels sprouts” – I guarantee it!
Pro Tips
Try parboiling the Brussels sprouts for 2-3 minutes before roasting to ensure they’re tender on the inside while still achieving that perfect caramelized exterior when paired with the maple-bacon glaze.
Substitutions & Variations
The basic Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Bites recipe provides a fantastic starting point that can be customized with different flavors, ingredients and cooking techniques.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace bacon with smoked tempeh or coconut bacon and use a bit more oil to compensate for the missing bacon fat.
- Asian-Inspired: Substitute maple syrup with honey, add 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil and finish with toasted sesame seeds.
- Honey Sriracha: Replace maple syrup with honey, add 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha sauce for heat and garnish with chopped scallions.
- Balsamic Glaze: Use 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon maple syrup instead of all maple syrup, then drizzle with balsamic reduction before serving.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook in air fryer at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking basket halfway through for faster cooking and extra crispiness.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Add 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of roasting for a savory crispy cheese crust.
Leftovers & Storage Tips
While these maple bacon Brussels sprouts bites taste their absolute best fresh from the oven, you’ll be happy to know they can still shine as leftovers with proper handling.
Store them in an airtight container in your fridge for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, skip the microwave! Instead, reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to revive that wonderful crispiness.
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Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts Bites
Crispy Brussels sprouts and bacon glazed with maple syrup for a perfect savory-sweet appetizer.
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped (or cut in halves for bites)
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon neutral oil (e.g., canola or avocado)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for extra crispiness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Lime juice (optional, for finishing)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss halved Brussels sprouts with cornstarch, shake off excess.
- Mix sprouts with bacon, oil, maple syrup, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Spread on a lined baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast 30-35 minutes, stirring halfway, until sprouts are caramelized and bacon is crispy.
- Optionally, drizzle lime juice before serving for brightness.
