01 -
First things first, get those carrots and Brussels sprouts ready. Peel your carrots and chop them into roughly 1-inch pieces; I like mine a bit chunky so they don't get mushy. For the Brussels, trim off the tough ends and halve them lengthwise. If you have any super big ones, quarter them. This step is crucial for even cooking and getting those beautiful crispy edges. I often do this part while my oven preheats, saving a bit of time in my often-chaotic kitchen setup.
02 -
In a large bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until it’s all combined and looks like a lovely, slightly thick amber liquid. This is where the magic really starts to happen for your Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots & Brussel Sprouts. Don't be shy with the seasonings here; they're going to transform these humble vegetables into something incredible. I once forgot the garlic powder and it just wasn't the same, trust me!
03 -
Add your prepped carrots and Brussels sprouts to the bowl with the glaze. Now, get in there with your hands (or a big spoon, if you're less messy than me!) and toss everything until the veggies are completely coated. Every single piece should be glistening with that sweet and savory mixture. This ensures even caramelization and crispiness. I sometimes find myself practically massaging the glaze into them, it's that important for getting those flavors to stick!
04 -
Pour your glazed veggies onto a large baking sheet. And this is key: spread them out in a single layer! Seriously, don't overcrowd the pan. If they’re piled up, they'll steam instead of roast, and you'll miss out on that glorious crispiness. If you have too many veggies, grab a second baking sheet. I learned this the hard way after a few too many soggy batches; a little extra pan-washing is worth it for truly Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots & Brussel Sprouts.
05 -
Pop that baking sheet into your preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Roast for about 20-25 minutes, giving them a good stir halfway through. You're looking for tender-crisp carrots and Brussels sprouts with beautifully caramelized, slightly charred edges. The smell in your kitchen will be absolutely divine at this point, a mix of sweet maple and savory roasted goodness. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary a bit.
06 -
Once they're done to your liking, pull them out of the oven. I like to let them cool for just a minute or two on the pan before transferring them to a serving dish. If you're feeling fancy, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and freshness. The goal is that perfect balance of tender inside and crispy, sticky-sweet outside. These Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots & Brussel Sprouts are best enjoyed warm, right off the pan, when they're at their peak deliciousness!