An easy air fryer appetizer with smoky bacon, caramelized sprouts, and a maple glaze.

These Harvest Maple Bacon Brussels Sprout Skewers taste like fall on a stick. The smoky bacon turns crisp in the air fryer while the Brussels sprouts caramelize into golden bites, and a drizzle of maple syrup adds just the right touch of autumn sweetness. Served warm, they’re the kind of appetizer that makes even sprout skeptics reach for seconds. Simple to make, fun to serve, and bursting with seasonal flavor, these skewers are destined to be the star of your fall table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It combines crispy Brussels sprouts with smoky bacon.
• The maple glaze adds the perfect touch of sweetness.
• These Harvest Maple Bacon Brussels Sprout Skewers are easy to make in the air fryer.
• They work as an appetizer, side dish, or party snack.
• The sweet and savory flavors make even Brussels sprout skeptics a fan.

Ingredient Notes

• Brussels sprouts – Look for sprouts that are small to medium in size so they cook evenly. Trim the ends and cut them in half for the best texture.
• Bacon – Par-cooking the bacon ensures it crisps up without burning in the air fryer. A classic thick-cut works well, but you can also use applewood-smoked bacon for extra flavor.
• Maple syrup – Pure maple syrup makes a big difference here. It adds sweetness and caramelization that pairs perfectly with the salty bacon.
• Olive oil – Just a light coating helps the Brussels sprouts crisp up beautifully.
• Optional toppings – Crushed pecans add crunch and nutty flavor, while flaky salt gives a gourmet touch. Both elevate the skewers for entertaining.

Before You Make

Do I need to par-cook the bacon first?
Yes, par-cooking is important because it ensures the bacon crisps up in the same time it takes the Brussels sprouts to cook. Otherwise, the sprouts might burn before the bacon is done.

Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
It’s best to use fresh Brussels sprouts for this recipe. Frozen sprouts hold too much water, which prevents them from crisping in the air fryer.

Do I have to soak wooden skewers?
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 10 minutes before threading to prevent burning in the air fryer.

Harvest Maple Bacon Brussels Sprout Skewers

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• Author: Taryn Camp

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 6–8 slices bacon, par-cooked until just starting to brown
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp maple syrup
• Optional: crushed pecans or flaky salt, for topping

Instructions

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes. Par-bake the bacon at 350°F for about 4 minutes, just until it begins to brown. Cut into 2-inch strips.
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Fold each bacon strip in half (like a mini hamburger shape) and thread onto skewers, alternating with Brussels sprouts. Continue until skewers are filled.
4. Place skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 380°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush skewers with maple syrup. Brush again immediately after removing them from the air fryer for extra flavor and to help the pecans stick.
6. Sprinkle with crushed pecans or flaky salt before serving warm.

FAQ

Can I make Harvest Maple Bacon Brussels Sprout Skewers in the oven instead of the air fryer?
Yes! Place the skewers on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway. Brush with maple syrup during the last few minutes.

What kind of bacon works best?
Thick-cut bacon holds up well on skewers and gives a hearty bite, but you can use regular bacon if that’s what you have.

How do I keep leftovers?
Store cooked skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispiness.

Can I prep these ahead of time?
Yes! You can par-cook the bacon and thread the skewers a few hours in advance. Store them covered in the fridge and cook just before serving.

Are these Harvest Maple Bacon Brussels Sprout Skewers gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your bacon and maple syrup are certified gluten-free.

Sprinkle of Fun

Freeze a batch of these Harvest Maple Bacon Brussels Sprout Skewers before a busy fall weekend, then reheat them when friends drop by or while the family is gathered around a football game. Pair them with a pitcher of apple cider (warm or sparkling) for the ultimate autumn appetizer moment that feels festive without the fuss.