Irresistibly Sweet & Savory Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Cranberry Pear Glaze : A Stunning Winter Side Dish

Bring color and warmth to your table with Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Cranberry Pear Glaze—a festive side dish that transforms humble sprouts into something extraordinary. Each bite blends crispy, golden Brussels sprouts, sweet roasted pears, and a glossy cranberry glaze for the perfect harmony of tart and savory. Whether you’re hosting a Friendsgiving, planning Healthy Winter Meals, or simply want an elegant weeknight side, this dish captures the essence of the season.

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The Secret to Perfectly Caramelized Brussels Sprouts

The secret to beautiful caramelization lies in two things: high heat and patience. When roasted properly, Brussels sprouts develop a golden crust that enhances their nutty flavor. Spread them out on a pan so they have room to brown evenly—crowding leads to steaming, not roasting.

Tossing the sprouts with olive oil ensures each leaf crisps up perfectly while remaining tender inside. For an extra touch of indulgence, finish them in a skillet with a drizzle of glaze to achieve that perfect glossy finish.

If you’re new to roasting veggies, you might also enjoy this easy Vegetable Casserole, another delicious way to highlight seasonal produce.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Pears Recipe

• Perfect for the holidays: A colorful, crowd-pleasing dish that looks as beautiful as it tastes.
• Balanced flavor: The sweetness of the pears and cranberry glaze balances the earthy sprouts.
• Healthy and hearty: Packed with fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C.
• Flexible: Serve warm or at room temperature—it’s just as tasty either way.

This recipe also pairs wonderfully with savory mains like Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.

Ingredients for Brussels Sprouts with Cranberry Pear Glaze

Serves 6–8

• 1 ½ lbs (680 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 ripe pears, sliced (Bosc or Anjou work best)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp butter (optional for extra caramelization)

For the Cranberry Pear Glaze:

• 1 cup (100 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
• ½ cup (120 ml) pear juice or apple cider
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp white balsamic vinegar
• Pinch of salt

This simple list of ingredients results in a complex, flavorful dish that balances sweet, tart, and savory notes perfectly.

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Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Sheet pan lined with parchment
• Mixing bowl
• Small saucepan for glaze
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Serving platter

If you enjoy creative vegetable sides, try these Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs for another deliciously comforting addition to your table.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Roast the Brussels Sprouts and Pears

In a mixing bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts and pear slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on the baking sheet, cut sides down for even browning.

Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the Brussels sprouts are deeply caramelized and the pears are tender with golden edges.

Step 3: Make the Cranberry Pear Glaze

While the vegetables roast, combine cranberries, pear juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and vinegar in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in a pinch of salt.

For a smoother texture, mash lightly or blend into a silky glaze.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Transfer the roasted sprouts and pears to a serving bowl or skillet. Pour the warm glaze over the top and toss gently to coat. Garnish with fresh thyme or toasted pecans if desired. Serve immediately while the glaze is glossy and fragrant.

For a complete winter spread, serve alongside Stuffed Acorn Squash—its creamy interior and roasted sweetness pair beautifully with the tart cranberry flavor.

Tips for the Best Roasted Brussels Sprouts

1. Dry your sprouts: Excess moisture prevents caramelization.
2. High heat is key: Roast at 425°F or higher for crisp edges.
3. Don’t overcrowd the pan: Use two sheets if needed.
4. Flip halfway through: Ensures even color and crunch.
5. Add glaze at the end: Keeps sprouts crisp and glossy.

You can also try this variation with Pan-Roasted Brussels Sprouts in Garlic Butter for a richer, savory flavor profile.

Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Add roasted fennel: A sweet, aromatic twist that complements both pears and sprouts.
• Try nuts: Add toasted walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts for crunch.
• Add cheese: Crumbled goat cheese or shaved Parmesan adds richness.
• Go garlicky: Sauté a few minced garlic cloves with butter before glazing.
• Swap fruits: Apples or dried cranberries can replace pears for variety.

Looking for another creative fall dish? These Pumpkin Twists make a beautiful sweet addition to your seasonal menu.

Healthy Winter Meals Inspiration

This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, vitamin K, and antioxidants, while pears add natural sweetness and vitamin C. The cranberry glaze introduces vibrant flavor without refined sugar, making it a wholesome choice for Healthy Winter Meals.

For another nutrient-rich dish, try the light and flavorful Vegetarian Pasta Primavera—a colorful, plant-based meal perfect for weeknights.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, layer roasted Brussels sprouts and pears on a long platter, drizzle with glaze, and sprinkle with chopped parsley or pomegranate seeds. Serve this dish as:

• A festive holiday side for turkey or chicken.
• A Friendsgiving or potluck favorite.
• A light vegetarian main course with crusty bread or quinoa.

Pair it with Garlic Parmesan Focaccia Bread to soak up the extra glaze—it’s a perfect match of sweet and savory.

Pairing Ideas (Non-Alcoholic)

Serve with warm spiced apple cider, sparkling pear juice, or a chilled glass of Lavender Lemonade for a fragrant and refreshing touch.

This dish also pairs beautifully with hearty soups like Creamy Mushroom Soup or roasted vegetable sides for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store: Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes to restore crispness.
To freeze: Not recommended—fresh roasted Brussels sprouts taste best.

If you want to make ahead, roast the vegetables and prepare the glaze separately, then combine and reheat just before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping preheating: The oven must be hot for proper caramelization.
2. Using too much glaze: It can overpower the natural flavor of the vegetables.
3. Overcrowding the pan: Leads to steaming instead of roasting.
4. Undercooking: Brussels sprouts need enough time to develop flavor and sweetness.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, but thaw and dry them completely before roasting to avoid sogginess.

2. Can I make the glaze ahead?
Definitely. The glaze can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently before using.

3. Can I substitute pears with apples?
Absolutely—apples caramelize beautifully and add similar sweetness.

4. What if I don’t have white balsamic vinegar?
You can use regular balsamic or apple cider vinegar; it will just have a deeper flavor.

5. Can I roast other vegetables together?
Yes! Carrots, fennel, or parsnips work wonderfully with the cranberry glaze.

Related Recipes to Try

If you love flavor-packed vegetable dishes, explore more ideas for your table:

• Garlic Butter Corn with Melty Cheese – sweet and savory perfection.
• Roasted Butternut Squash – caramelized and buttery.
• Sweet Chili Meatballs – great for pairing with holiday spreads.
• Pumpkin Chicken Chili – hearty and perfect for chilly nights.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Cranberry Pear Glaze recipe brings together the best of the season—sweet fruit, crisp vegetables, and a tangy glaze that bursts with flavor. It’s an effortless way to impress guests or elevate your weeknight dinners.

Whether served at a family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this dish is sure to win over even the pickiest eaters.

If you loved this recipe, share it with friends, and subscribe to our blog for more Healthy Winter Meals, delicious Pear Recipes, and creative vegetable sides that celebrate the beauty of seasonal cooking.

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