With a sweet and tangy maple syrup glaze and salty bacon, these savory maple bacon Brussels sprouts are sure to be a hit at your next meal. While the maple syrup balances out the Brussels sprouts' natural bitterness and caramelizes nicely, giving the dish a rich depth of flavor, the bacon pieces make the sprouts salty and savory and add a deliciously crispy crunch. It's a flavor party in your mouth.
My Favorite Thing About This Recipe
Call me crazy... but I LOVE the "burned" crispy leaves that separate from the sprouts when you trim and toss them! I usually toss them a little more than necessary just to have more of them, especially in the air fryer preparation. They add both texture and flavor.
Reader Comments That Say It All
"The bacon comes out crisp and candied, and the sprouts were perfectly tender and not overly crisped. Restaurant quality - for real." -Nicole
"Best part for me - it was so simple!" -Kim
"Amazing. My wife is not a Brussels Sprouts fan, yet she ate a pound of these in a single sitting. Love 'em!" -Brett
Why This Recipe Works
- Sweet and Savory Combination. Maple syrup and bacon work well together to create a delicious contrast of tastes that goes well with the natural bitterness of Brussels sprouts and is highlighted by the acidity of the apple cider vinegar.
- Easy Prep. This recipe is great for both new and experienced cooks because it only takes a few simple ingredients and a short amount of time to get ready.
- Versatile Cooking Method. You can use either an air fryer or an oven, so you can change the recipe to fit your favorite way to cook using your favorite tools.
How to Make Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Key Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts - These small, compact veggies look like miniature cabbage and have a mildly bitter and nutty flavor. When cooked, they get tender and have a nice texture.
Pure Maple Syrup - A natural sweetener that caramelizes while cooking to add richness to the Brussels sprouts.
Apple Cider Vinegar - Balances the sweetness of the maple syrup with a tangy and slightly acidic flavor, making the overall taste brighter. This is the key to this recipe!
Bacon Pieces - Salty and savory, bacon adds a rich flavor to Brussels sprouts. During cooking, it also gets deliciously crispy, which gives this dish the perfect texture. I use and recommend thick-cut bacon for the air fryer and regular-cut for the oven.
What You'll Need to Prep (15 minutes)
Soaking Brussels Sprouts
- Fill a large bowl or sink with cold water.
- To get rid of any dirt or debris, put the Brussels sprouts in the water and gently swirl them around.
- Several minutes of soaking will help any stubborn dirt or impurities come loose from the Brussels sprouts.
- After soaking, take the Brussels sprouts out of the water and pat them dry using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
Trimming and Halving Brussels Sprouts
- Look over the sprouts and peel off any tough or discolored outer leaves, then throw them away.
- It's up to you whether you want to cut the sprouts higher or lower on the stem. If you trim higher, more free leaves will fall off. These loose leaves will get crisper as they cook and give the dish a different flavor and texture. (My favorite part!)
- Once the Brussels sprouts have been trimmed, cut each one in half lengthwise from top to bottom.
Slicing Bacon
- Put two or three bacon slices on top of each other and make sure they are aligned evenly.
- Hold the bacon slices on the cutting board firmly with one hand. Using your other hand and a sharp knife, carefully cut the stacked bacon slices into ½-inch pieces by cutting them crosswise.
- After you cut the first stack, separate the sliced pieces. You can put the pieces right into the bowl with the Brussels sprouts and dressing, or you can set them aside until ready to use.
Cooking Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil*, apple cider vinegar, pure maple syrup, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until all the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
*Use 2 tablespoons for cooking in the oven; ¼ cup for air frying.
- Add the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts and the cut bacon slices to the bowl with the glaze. Toss well to ensure that every piece is evenly coated with the mixture.
Air Fryer
- Transfer the coated Brussels sprouts and bacon to the air fryer basket.
- Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 8-12 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness. Make sure to toss the contents of the basket at least once during cooking to ensure even browning.
Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Transfer the coated Brussels sprouts and bacon to a baking sheet or roasting pan, making sure the cut side of each sprout is down.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and cook for 30-40 minutes or until the sprouts are crispy to your liking. (Note: The more you cook Brussels sprouts, the more their natural bitterness comes out, so you may want to avoid overcooking them.)
Tips For Making Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
- Choose fresh Brussels sprouts - Look for firm, compact sprouts with leaves that are a bright green color. Remove any leaves that appear wilted or have discolored spots.
- Properly trim and halve the sprouts - Take off any damaged leaves on the outside and trim the ends of the stems. Cut the sprouts in half lengthwise so they cook evenly.
- Toss well for an even coating - When you add the glaze to the sprouts and bacon, make sure to toss them well so that every piece is evenly covered. This keeps the taste the same all the way through.
- Adjust cooking time for desired crispiness - The cooking time can be changed based on how crisp you like your Brussels sprouts. Keep an eye on the sprouts and bacon while they're cooking, and change the time as needed to get the crispness you want.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
For the best texture and taste, you should use fresh Brussels sprouts, but you can also use frozen sprouts if you need to. Just make sure they are fully defrosted and dry before continuing with the recipe. While you can use frozen, keep in mind that the quality will be different with frozen Brussels sprouts.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! If you don't like bacon, you can leave it out and still enjoy the tasty Brussels sprouts with maple glaze. Even by themselves, the sprouts make a satisfying meal because of their crispy texture and sweet and tangy flavor.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes; turkey bacon is a great choice for people who want a leaner option. However, turkey bacon is leaner, so it will cook differently. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To warm them up again, just put them back in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes. Microwaving them works in a pinch.
More Delicious Air Fryer Recipes
- Cauliflower Wings
- Spicy, Sweet, & Savory Chicken Wings
- Parmesan-Ranch Chicken Tenders
- Coffee & Spice Ribeye
- Portobello Burger with Basil Pesto Mayo
★ Did you make these Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts?
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Maple Bacon Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. Brussels sprouts trimmed, halved
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil ¼ cup for air fryer
- 2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
- 1 ½ tsp. sea salt
- ½ tsp. black pepper
- 8 bacon slices thick-cut for air fryer, regular-cut for oven, cut into ½-inch pieces
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F or air fryer to 400°F .
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, pure maple syrup, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until all the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the trimmed and halved Brussels sprouts and the cut bacon slices to the bowl with the glaze. Toss well to ensure that every piece is evenly coated with the mixture.
For Oven
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (220°C).
- Transfer the coated Brussels sprouts and bacon to a baking sheet or roasting pan, making sure the cut side of each sprout is down.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and cook for 30-40 minutes or until the sprouts are crispy to your liking. (Note: The more you cook Brussels sprouts, the more their natural bitterness comes out, so you may want to avoid overcooking them.)
For Air Fryer
- Transfer half of the coated Brussels sprouts and bacon to the air fryer basket.
- Set the air fryer to 400°F (175°C) and cook for 8-12 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness. After 5 or 6 minutes, make sure to toss the contents of the basket at least once during cooking to ensure even browning.
- Repeat with the remaining sprouts and bacon.
Video
Notes
Tips
- Choose fresh Brussels sprouts: Look for firm, compact sprouts with leaves that are a bright green color. Remove any leaves that appear wilted or have discolored spots.
- Properly trim and halve the sprouts: Take off any damaged leaves on the outside and trim the ends of the stems. Cut the sprouts in half lengthwise so they cook evenly.
- Toss well for an even coating: When you add the glaze to the sprouts and bacon, make sure to toss them well so that every piece is evenly covered. This keeps the taste the same all the way through.
- Adjust cooking time for desired crispiness: The cooking time can be changed based on how crisp you like your Brussels sprouts. Keep an eye on the sprouts and bacon while they're cooking, and change the time as needed to get the crispness you want.
FAQs
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
For the best texture and taste, you should use fresh Brussels sprouts, but you can also use frozen sprouts if you need to. Just make sure they are fully defrosted and dry before continuing with the recipe. While you can use frozen, keep in mind that the quality will be different with frozen Brussels sprouts.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! If you don't like bacon, you can leave it out and still enjoy the tasty Brussels sprouts with maple glaze. Even by themselves, the sprouts make a satisfying meal because of their crispy texture and sweet and tangy flavor.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes; turkey bacon is a great choice for people who want a leaner option. However, turkey bacon is leaner, so it will cook differently. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. To warm them up again, just put them back in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes. Microwaving them works in a pinch.
Nutrition
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Stella
This is such a great idea! Great to prepare on a Sunday for days in the week when you don’t have time! Thanks for sharing.
Chef Gary
Thanks Stella! We love these so much.
Willa
Absolutely loved
Laura
Simply delicious. My first Air Fryer recipe and it was a great one.
irene
OMG I just made and ate them all OOPS 🙂
Sooo GOOD you would have thought they were cooked in a well seasoned cast iron skillet!! Headed back to the store tomorrow for more sprouts. Thanks for the recipe!!
Jademoves
Thank you for this recipe! I use to hate brussells sprouts myself. This is really good. I didn’t have maple syrup the first time I made this so I added a little honey. It came out perfect!
Lizy R
This is considered a side dish. What would you eat this with?
Gary
I love Brussels with a steak. But really, you can eat them with any protein.
Pow
THE best brussel sprout recipe out there! Pairs well with a lemon garlic butter pasta. YUM!
Lizy
Should you preheat the air fryer first?
Gary
No need to preheat.
Kim
Yum! Excellent!
Torey
Do you cook the bacon ahead of time or put raw bacon in?
Gary White
Raw.
Aly
These look delicious! I'm wanting to make in my air fryer for Thanksgiving this year but would like to cut the recipe in half since there is just two of us, do you recommend decreasing the cook time at all? This will be my first time using our new air fryer. Thank you!
Gary White
Yes, you probably want to reduce the time a little. I'm just not sure how much. Just keep an eye on them.
Cari
I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE this recipe. I think I would eat it every single day if I could. The first time I tried it I made it as a side dish and it was so good I ate an entire place for my dinner!
Cari P
I want to take these for a pot luck at work and not sure if they would be good re-heated. Has anyone tried it or what is the best way?
Gary White
I think they will reheat just fine. If possible, use dry heat to warm them up, like a toaster. Microwave as a last resort.
Mrs Emma swan
Hi, my air flyer only goes up to 200? How long do you think I will need to do them for? Really want to try this for Christmas
Gary White
Hi Emma. This recipe is written for 350° Fahrenheit. I'm guessing you read this as 200° celsius? I apologize for the confusion. I will update the recipe card to state Fahrenheit. You would cook these at about 175° celsius.
M
good
Brett McKeever
Amazing. My wife is not a Brussels sprouts fan, yet she ate a lb of these in a single sitting. Love em! Thanks
Ashley
These are DELICIOUS!!!
Recipe says to cook for 8-12 minutes. But I cooked them for 6 minutes, stirred them then cooked for 10 more minutes and they're perfect.
Also, my husband and I are doing low carb diet so instead of maple , I used Cary's sugar free syrup abs maple extract.
I will definitely be coming these again!
Kim Marlow
This was the best recipe for brussel sprouts yet! I have a picky household and everyone wanted more. Best part for me - it was so simple!
AlisonH
I was skeptical of all that maple syrup - but plunged in...These were delicious and easy! Also, the first air fryer recipe I've tried! Thank you!!!
Marilynne Wickman
There are many ways to enjoy Brussel sprouts but this is by far my favorite. Just the right amount of sweetness from the maple syrup to downplay the bitterness of the sprouts. Bacon livens it up to perfection. Never tried the oven method, just the air fryer. This recipe takes a bit more time than some but I guarantee you'll b hooked.
Alyssa Abrams
So amazing
Ginger Hohm
Love this recipe. I make brussel sprouts often in my air fryer, but never thought to add the maple syrup. I also mix in one half sliced onion. Super yum!
Nicole
First, the photos in this recipe don't come up for me. But that is beside the point. This is hands down the best way I have ever made Brussel sprouts ever. I didn't think this recipe could be as good as the reviews until, it was! The bacon comes out crisp and candied, the sprouts were perfectly tender and not overly crisped. Restaurant quality - for real. It was the star of the thanksgiving table. THANK YOU!
Kali
Made these for thanksgiving and my whole family raved about them! They were amazing and so easy! I did them in the air fryer in two batches for 12 minutes each. Will definitely keep this in mind next time I need to make Brussels sprouts! Thanks for the recipe
June
So easy and super yummy. The crispy charred leaves & bacon and salty & acidic work great together.
Catherine
I love this recipe. I hate brussel sprouts but this makes them so good!
McKay
Delicious, family enjoyed
Phylicia
So so good!! These were a huge hit - I paired with steak and lobster mashed potatoes to complete a fancy homemade anniversary dinner. This will for sure become a staple recipe for us! Can't believe I waited this long to try this in the air fryer. Thanks for this great recipe!!
Jeanne
While I think this recipe has great potential it certainly wasn't a hit for me! I chose to use the oven method option and the result was an overly sticky and sweet dish. My thoughts are, if this recipe was done in an airfryer so the brussels weren't submersed in a pool of fatty syrup it would have turned out much better, probably even great! If I were to use the oven method again, I would cut down on the oil/maple syrup mixture to about one third of what is called for.
Joan Farquharson
This was so amazing! My daughter who isn’t a big fan of vegetables cleared the Brussel sprouts off of her plate!
Will definitely make this again
Leisa Kaszczuk
Just wondering...Do you leave the Crisper Plate in the basket when you cook the Brussels Sprouts???
I have the Ninja AF100 Air Fryer and was was wanting to make these using this recipe but adding fresh garlic and onions to the mixture. I hope that would cook evenly and not burn!!😊
Do you have a recipe for making Fried Squash in the Air Fryer??
Respectfully yours,
Leisa
Gary White
I'm not familiar with the crisper plate or the Ninja Foodi. And as of now, I have not written a recipe for air fryer squash.
Stephanie
Silly question, can I use bacon bits? I know the real thing would be much better, but just curious.
Gary White
Ya know what, I've never cooked pre-cooked bacon bits before. So I'm not sure how they might respond in an air fryer.
Michelle G.
Delicious!! My new favorite, I’ve made it twice already!
Mom
My first time eating Brusselsprouts…. Pretty great!
Christina T
I love this recipe! This is my favorite way to eat brussel sprouts. I made this for my friend who doesn't enjoy brussel sprouts and she loved them as well. Whenever I make this dish for friends/family, they always ask for the recipe. These brussel sprouts are quick and easy to make and pair nicely with many dishes.