Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Spicy Maple Pecan Dust
Crispy-edged, deeply caramelized Brussels sprouts roasted until golden, then finished with a sweet-spicy maple pecan dust that melts slightly on contact.
Sweet, savory, nutty, and gently spicy — this dish tastes luxury while staying plant-forward.
Prep: 10 minutes
Roast: 25 minutes
Finish: 5 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Ingredients
Brussels Sprouts
500 g Brussels sprouts, halved
2½ tbsp olive oil
Salt & black pepper
Spicy Maple Pecan Dust
½ cup pecans
1½ tbsp maple syrup
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika
Pinch of salt
Optional Finish
1 tsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
Flaky sea salt
Instructions
Roast the Brussels Sprouts
Preheat oven to 220°C (high heat = caramelization).
Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt & pepper.
Spread cut-side down on baking tray.
Roast 25 minutes until deeply golden and crispy at edges.
Make the Spicy Maple Pecan Dust
Toast pecans in a dry pan until fragrant (2–3 minutes).
Add maple syrup, cayenne, smoked paprika, and salt.
Cook 30–40 seconds until sticky and glossy.
Transfer to parchment, cool completely.
Crush into a coarse dust (mortar, blender, or rolling pin).
Finish the Dish
Transfer hot Brussels sprouts to serving bowl.
Sprinkle generously with maple pecan dust.
Add a tiny splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
Finish with flaky salt.
Chef Secrets
Cut-side down roasting = maximum caramelization
Maple + cayenne = controlled heat, not burn
Acid at the end wakes up sweetness
Dust > chunks → even flavor in every bite
Frequently Asked Questions
Too spicy?
No — warmth only. Reduce cayenne for mild.
Make ahead?
Dust can be made 2 days ahead. Roast sprouts fresh.
Vegan?
100% plant-based.
Serve with?
Roast chicken, salmon, steak, grain bowls, or as a holiday side.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 280
Protein: 6 g
Carbs: 20 g
Fat: 20 g
Fiber: 6 g