When the holiday season rolls around, my kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of roasting Brussels sprouts glazed with honey and balsamic vinegar. This Christmas Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Honey-Balsamic Glaze recipe quickly became my go-to side dish because it strikes the perfect balance between caramelized sweetness and tangy depth. What I love most is how effortlessly these little green gems transform from a humble vegetable to a crowd-pleasing holiday treat—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and glazed with a sticky, flavorful finish. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or simply tired of the usual fast-food sides, this recipe offers a fresh, festive twist that’s both simple and elegant. Give it a try, and watch even the Brussels sprout skeptics at your table ask for seconds!
Why choose Christmas Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Honey-Balsamic Glaze?
Irresistible Flavor Combo: The honey-balsamic glaze delivers a perfect blend of sweet and tangy that elevates every bite. Effortless Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip these up even on a busy holiday schedule. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Crispy edges and tender centers turn skeptics into fans. Versatile Side Dish: Pairs beautifully with everything from roasted turkey to vegan mains. Festive and Fresh: Adds a vibrant, mouthwatering touch to your Christmas table that feels both comforting and special.
Christmas Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Honey-Balsamic Glaze Ingredients
For the Brussels Sprouts
- Brussels sprouts – Choose firm, bright green sprouts for the best texture and flavor.
- Olive oil – Helps achieve that crispy, golden exterior during roasting.
- Salt – Enhances natural flavors and balances the sweetness of the glaze.
- Freshly ground black pepper – Adds a gentle, warm kick to round out the taste.
For the Honey-Balsamic Glaze
- Honey – Delivers natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the sprouts.
- Balsamic vinegar – Brings a tangy depth that complements the honey’s sweetness perfectly.
- Garlic (minced) – Infuses a subtle savory warmth into the glaze.
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a gentle heat for those who like a little festive spice.
This Christmas Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Honey-Balsamic Glaze recipe is your shortcut to a holiday side that’s as simple as it is spectacular!
How to Make Christmas Roasted Brussels Sprouts
- Preheat: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), ensuring a hot environment to crisp the Brussels sprouts’ edges golden brown and tender inside in roughly 20–25 minutes of roasting time.
- Trim and toss: Trim off tough stems and peel any damaged leaves, halve each sprout, then toss evenly with olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper for optimal flavor and crunch.
- Roast: Spread sprouts cut-side down on a baking sheet, roast at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning until crisp-tender and caramelized on the edges.
- For the Glaze:
- Simmer glaze: In a small saucepan, combine honey, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes; simmer for about 5 minutes until thick and syrupy.
- Toss and serve: Drizzle the warm glaze over roasted Brussels sprouts, toss gently to coat, then transfer to a serving platter for a glossy, festive finish.
Optional: Sprinkle toasted pecans for extra crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Christmas Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Honey-Balsamic Glaze Variations
Feel free to experiment with these delightful twists to make the recipe your own!
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Vegan: Substitute honey with maple syrup for a completely plant-based sweetness that beautifully complements the balsamic.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in toasted walnuts or almonds with the sprouts before roasting to add a delightful crunch and rich flavor.
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Zesty Citrus: Add the zest of a lemon or orange to the glaze for a fresh, bright contrast that enhances the sweetness.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the olive oil toss for an aromatic flavor boost.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a touch of cayenne pepper or sriracha into the glaze for those who crave a bit more heat.
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Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or vegan cheese on top right after roasting for a savory-studded twist.
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Maple-Balsamic Fusion: Combine half maple syrup with balsamic vinegar in the glaze for an extra layer of caramelized depth.
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Smoky Flavor: Add a touch of smoked paprika to the Brussels sprouts before roasting for a deliciously smoky edge.
Each variation invites you to tailor the dish to your taste, making the holidays even more special with your unique signature!
Expert Tips for Christmas Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Honey-Balsamic Glaze
- Choose Fresh Sprouts: Select firm, bright green Brussels sprouts without yellowing or spots for the best texture and flavor.
- Cut Evenly: Halve sprouts uniformly to ensure they roast evenly and develop a consistent crispy edge.
- High Heat Roasting: Roast at 425°F to achieve that perfect balance of tender inside and caramelized exterior without sogginess.
- Glaze Consistency: Simmer the honey-balsamic glaze until syrupy but not too thick to coat sprouts evenly without clumping.
- Toss Warm: Add the glaze while sprouts are hot from the oven for the best sticky, glossy finish and flavor absorption.
What to Serve with Christmas Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Honey-Balsamic Glaze?
Imagine a festive dining table filled with flavors that dance together in harmony and delight.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these hearty potatoes provide a smooth contrast to the crispy Brussels sprouts, making each bite a cozy celebration.
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Herb-Roasted Turkey: The savory, juicy turkey complements the tangy sweetness of the sprouts, creating a mouthwatering holiday pairing that pleases every palate.
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Cranberry Sauce: This tart and vibrant addition brings a bright burst of flavor, enhancing the sweetness of the honey-balsamic glaze while adding a pop of color to your plate.
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Quinoa Salad: A light and crunchy quinoa salad with fresh herbs adds a refreshing touch, balancing out the warm, roasted flavors with a delightful texture.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in olive oil and garlic serve as a crunchy counterpart to the caramelized Brussels sprouts, making for an appealing contrast.
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Sparkling Cider: The effervescence of a chilled sparkling cider brightens your festive feast, with its light sweetness enhancing all the rich flavors of your meal.
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Dark Chocolate Tart: For dessert, a rich dark chocolate tart rounds out this delightful dinner with its bittersweet notes, creating a luxurious finish after the sweet and savory sides.
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Toasted Almonds: Sprinkle some toasted almonds on your Brussels sprouts for an extra layer of flavor and crunch, elevating your dish from great to unforgettable.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Fridge: Store any leftover Brussels sprouts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain their crispy texture.
Freezer: If you want to freeze them, spread the cooled roasted sprouts on a baking sheet first to avoid clumping. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen Brussels sprouts, bake straight from the freezer at 400°F (204°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Freshness Tip: Always enjoy your Christmas Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Honey-Balsamic Glaze as soon as possible for the best flavor and texture!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Honey-Balsamic Glaze are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prep the Brussels sprouts up to 24 hours in advance by trimming and halving them, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can make the honey-balsamic glaze ahead of time; simply simmer and cool it, then refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To maintain the sprouts’ quality, avoid tossing them in the glaze until just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy, roast the prepared sprouts directly from the fridge and drizzle the warmed glaze over them for a quick yet delicious side that makes holiday entertaining effortless!
Christmas Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Honey-Balsamic Glaze Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Brussels sprouts for this recipe?
Look for firm, bright green Brussels sprouts without any yellowing or dark spots all over. Freshness is key—it ensures tender centers and crispy edges after roasting. Avoid sprouts that are wilted or have black blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
Can I store leftover roasted Brussels sprouts, and for how long?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. To revive their crispy texture, reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes instead of microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Is it possible to freeze these Brussels sprouts? How should I freeze and reheat them?
Yes, freezing works well! Spread the cooled roasted Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze them individually. Once frozen solid—usually after a few hours—transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake them from frozen at 400°F for 15–20 minutes to restore their crispy edges and warm centers.
What if my Brussels sprouts turn out soggy instead of crispy?
This happens if the oven isn’t hot enough or if the sprouts are overcrowded on the baking sheet. Make sure to roast at 425°F with enough space between the sprouts so hot air can circulate, promoting crispiness. Also, roasting cut-side down helps caramelize properly. Patting the sprouts dry before tossing with oil can prevent excess moisture.
Are these honey-balsamic glazed Brussels sprouts safe for pets or people with allergies?
While honey and balsamic vinegar are safe for most humans, honey is not recommended for puppies or dogs. If serving guests with allergies, check for sensitivities to honey, vinegar, or garlic. For a vegan version, swap honey with maple syrup; it adds sweetness and keeps the glaze plant-based. Always communicate ingredient details when hosting!
Easy Christmas Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Honey-Balsamic Glaze Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Trim off tough stems and peel any damaged leaves, halve each sprout, then toss evenly with olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Spread sprouts cut-side down on a baking sheet, roast at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway until crisp-tender and caramelized.
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes; simmer for about 5 minutes until thick.
- Drizzle the warm glaze over roasted Brussels sprouts, toss gently to coat, then transfer to a serving platter.
