Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Sweet and Spicy Glaze

Air fryer Brussels sprouts are the ultimate way to turn this humble vegetable into a star side dish. Perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, these sprouts are coated in a mouthwatering sweet and spicy glaze made with maple syrup and sriracha. This recipe offers the perfect combination of bold flavors and crunch while staying healthy and wholesome!

We created this sweet and spicy Brussels sprouts recipe to prove that nutritious eating doesn’t need to be boring. After testing numerous variations, we discovered the key to achieving the best texture and flavor is using your air fryer and coating the sprouts in a perfectly balanced glaze. Whether you’re serving these as a healthy Brussels sprouts side dish or adding them to a holiday spread, they’ll disappear in minutes.

Why This Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe Is Good for You

• Rich in fiber to support gut health and keep you fuller longer.
• Amazing source of Vitamin C to boost your immune system.
• Naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly.
• Uses heart-healthy olive oil for a good fat boost.
• Easy to make within 30 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights.

Wholesome Ingredients for This Sweet and Spicy Brussels Sprouts Recipe

Each ingredient in this recipe was selected to deliver both nutrition and flavor. Let’s break down why they’re so good for you:

• Brussels sprouts: Packed with fiber, Vitamin K, and antioxidants, these sprouts are a nutrient powerhouse. Choose bright green, firm sprouts for the freshest taste.
• Olive oil: A healthy fat that supports heart health and adds richness to your dish. Swap avocado oil if preferred.
• Maple syrup: Offers natural sweetness while avoiding refined sugar. Swap with a sugar-free substitute for keto-friendly options.
• Sriracha: Delivers mild heat and bold flavor. For a milder version, try using a smoky chili sauce instead.

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients for Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

• 2 lb. Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 5 Tbsp. olive oil, divided
• 1/2 tsp. hot paprika
• Kosher salt
• 6 Tbsp. pure maple syrup
• 1 1/2 Tbsp. sriracha
• Aleppo pepper and sliced scallions, for serving

How to Make Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F as you prepare the Brussels sprouts. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sprouts with 4 tablespoons of olive oil, hot paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt to season evenly.
2. Place the Brussels sprouts in your air fryer basket in a single layer (work in two batches for best results). Air-fry them for 9-11 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they’re crispy, charred, and tender.
3. Meanwhile, whisk together the maple syrup, sriracha, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Set aside 2 1/2 tablespoons in a separate bowl and stir in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
4. Toss the first batch of roasted Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of the syrup mixture in a large bowl, coating well. Repeat with the second batch and another 2 tablespoons.
5. Transfer the coated sprouts to a serving platter. Drizzle with the reserved maple-oil mixture and finish with a sprinkle of Aleppo pepper and sliced scallions for extra flavor.

How to Customize This Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts Recipe for Your Diet

• Low calorie: Reduce the maple syrup to 4 tablespoons and skip the drizzle for fewer calories.
• Keto-friendly: Swap maple syrup with a sugar-free alternative such as allulose syrup.
• Nut-free: This recipe already avoids nuts – no modifications needed!
• Lower sodium: Use reduced-sodium kosher salt or skip the Aleppo pepper garnish.
• Extra protein: Add toasted nuts or seeds on top for a nutrient boost.

Our Team’s Tips for the Best Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts

• Cut sprouts evenly: Uniform sizes ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Shake the basket: This helps the sprouts cook evenly for maximum crispness.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Work in batches for the best crispy texture.
• Reheat leftovers quickly: Pop them back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F to regain their crispness.
• Taste your glaze: Adjust the sweetness or heat to personal preference before tossing with the Brussels sprouts.

Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts FAQs

How do I make these crispy Brussels sprouts in the air fryer?

Tossing sprouts with oil and cooking them in batches creates the best results. Shake the basket halfway through cooking for evenly crispy edges.

Can I make this sweet and spicy Brussels sprouts recipe keto?

Yes! Substitute maple syrup with a keto-approved sweetener like allulose syrup to keep it low-carb friendly.

What is the best oil to use for this recipe?

We recommend olive oil for its flavor and health benefits, but avocado oil works well too and has a high smoke point.

Are these air fryer Brussels sprouts vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients like maple syrup and olive oil.

Can I freeze cooked Brussels sprouts?

We don’t recommend freezing due to potential texture changes, but they store well in the fridge for 3-4 days.

These air fryer Brussels sprouts are bound to become a household favorite. Whether you’re meal-prepping, hosting a dinner, or just craving a healthy side dish, give this recipe a try – we’d love to hear how you make it your own! What are your favorite ways to enjoy Brussels sprouts? Let us know in the comments below!