If you’re looking for a show-stopping side dish this holiday season, look no further than Caramelized Brussels Sprouts Christmas Skewers with Walnut Honey. This festive recipe combines the earthy flavors of Brussels sprouts with a sweet-tangy glaze that perfectly balances the bitterness of the sprouts. It’s not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a delightful twist on traditional holiday dishes that will leave your guests asking for seconds. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these skewers are sure to become a favorite at your festive gatherings.
What makes these caramelized Brussels sprouts particularly appealing is their versatility. They are a great vegetarian option while offering an exciting blend of textures and flavors. The golden, crispy edges of the roasted Brussels sprouts create a satisfying bite, while the toasted walnuts add crunch and richness. The honey glaze, infused with apple cider vinegar, provides a beautiful shiny finish and an enticing aroma that will fill your kitchen. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish during a holiday feast or as a finger food at a party, these skewers will impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Caramelized Brussels Sprouts Christmas Skewers Recipe
- Delicious & Unique: A flavorful combination of caramelized sprouts and honey-walnut glaze that stands out at any gathering.
- Simple Ingredients: Requires only a handful of easily accessible ingredients, making it a stress-free addition to your holiday menu.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: A great vegetarian option that appeals to a wide audience.
- Make Ahead: Can be prepped in advance, allowing you more time to enjoy the festivities.
- Stunning Presentation: Serve these skewers on a platter, garnished with fresh thyme for a beautiful holiday display.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. First, ensure your oven is clean and ready to use. A baking sheet lined with parchment paper will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
You’ll need a large mixing bowl to toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil and seasonings. A dry pan is necessary to toast the walnuts, which enhances their nutty flavor. Having a small saucepan on hand is essential for warming the honey and mixing in the apple cider vinegar. Finally, gather 8–10 wooden skewers for assembling the final dish. Pre-soaking these wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes can help prevent them from burning in the oven, adding an extra touch of care to your dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) pure maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 tsp (2–3 g) sea salt
- 1/4 tsp (1–2 g) black pepper
- 1/3 cup (40 g) toasted walnuts, chopped
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) honey
- 1 tsp (5 ml) apple cider vinegar
- Optional: fresh thyme for garnish
- 8–10 wooden skewers
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that your Brussels sprouts will roast perfectly, achieving that desirable golden color and crispy texture. While the oven warms, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This simple step will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Season the Brussels Sprouts
In a large mixing bowl, add the halved Brussels sprouts. Drizzle with olive oil, and then add the maple syrup or honey, sea salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until each sprout is beautifully coated. This mixture not only adds flavor but also helps in achieving that caramelized finish when roasted.
Step 3: Roast the Sprouts
Place the seasoned Brussels sprouts cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. This positioning helps them caramelize nicely as the flat sides make better contact with the hot surface. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning. They should emerge from the oven with crispy edges and a delightful golden hue.
Step 4: Toast the Walnuts
While the Brussels sprouts are roasting, it’s time to toast your walnuts. Place them in a dry pan over medium heat. Keep an eye on them and stir occasionally to ensure they don’t burn. Toast for about 2-3 minutes, or until they’re fragrant and lightly golden. This process will elevate their flavor and add a delightful crunch to your skewers.
Step 5: Prepare the Honey Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine the honey and apple cider vinegar over low heat. Warm the mixture until it starts bubbling gently, allowing the vinegar’s acidity to meld with the sweetness of the honey. Stir in your toasted walnuts, coating them in the sweet glaze. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 6: Assemble the Skewers
Once the Brussels sprouts are perfectly roasted, it’s time to assemble your skewers. Take 4-5 sprouts and thread them onto each wooden skewer, creating a festive presentation. Ensure they’re evenly spaced so guests can easily enjoy these bite-sized treats.
Step 7: Drizzle & Garnish
Finally, drizzle the warm walnut honey glaze generously over the assembled skewers. This last step adds a shiny finish and enhances the flavors. If you’re feeling extra festive, garnish with fresh thyme for a beautiful holiday touch. Serve these skewers warm on a holiday platter to impress your guests!
Variations
- Protein: For a heartier skewers, consider adding cooked bacon or chicken between the Brussels sprouts.
- Vegetables: Mix in other vegetables like mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with spices such as smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure Brussels sprouts are fresh and firm for the best flavor and texture.
- Store any leftover glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these skewers with your favorite holiday entrees, such as roasted turkey or ham.
- Serve as a delightful party appetizer alongside a cheese platter and festive drinks.
Tips
- For an extra caramelized flavor, broil the skewers for an additional 2-3 minutes after roasting.
- Rotate the skewers while drizzling to ensure even glaze distribution.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 200 per serving
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 200mg
FAQs
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the Brussels sprouts and walnut glaze a day ahead, then assemble them just before serving.
What can I use instead of honey?
You can substitute agave syrup or additional maple syrup for a vegan option.
Are these skewers gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as all the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts Christmas Skewers with Walnut Honey are not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor. They make the perfect addition to any holiday gathering, combining ease of preparation with an impressive presentation. These skewers embody the spirit of the season—delicious, vibrant, and a little bit sweet! Whether served as a side dish or a main course addition, they’re sure to please the crowd. We invite you to try this recipe, make it your own by adding personal touches, and share your results in the comments below. Happy cooking, and enjoy your festive meals!
Print
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts Christmas Skewers
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts Christmas Skewers are a festive twist on holiday favorites, combining sweet honey glaze and crunchy walnuts.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) pure maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 tsp (2–3 g) sea salt
- 1/4 tsp (1–2 g) black pepper
- 1/3 cup (40 g) toasted walnuts, chopped
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) honey
- 1 tsp (5 ml) apple cider vinegar
- Optional: fresh thyme for garnish
- 8–10 wooden skewers
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the halved Brussels sprouts and toss with olive oil, maple syrup or honey, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Place the seasoned sprouts cut-side down on the baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- In a dry pan over medium heat, toast the walnuts for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Combine honey and apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan over low heat until bubbling, then coat the walnuts in the mixture.
- Thread 4-5 sprouts onto each skewer, then drizzle the warm glaze over them. Garnish with fresh thyme if desired.
Notes
Store leftover glaze in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
Nutrition
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 4 g