Bacon Wrapped Maple Brussels Sprouts

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Wash and dry the Brussels sprouts. Trim the ends and cut any larger ones in half.

In a bowl, coat the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, and then sprinkle them with salt and pepper.

Cut the bacon slices in half lengthwise to create thinner strips.

Wrap each Brussels sprout with a strip of bacon, securing it with a toothpick. Soak the toothpicks in water for 10 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

Arrange the bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

In a small bowl, mix the maple syrup and balsamic vinegar.

After the initial 15 minutes of baking, drizzle the maple syrup and balsamic mixture over the Brussels sprouts.

Continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the Brussels sprouts are tender, basting occasionally with the maple mixture.

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.