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Sweet Savory Glazed Cauliflower

Category: Perfect Partners for Every Meal

Enjoy golden roasted cauliflower florets coated in a glossy blend of maple syrup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and aromatic spices. The cauliflower bakes until tender with crisp edges, then finishes with a sweet and tangy glaze that's caramelized to perfection. Hints of garlic and ginger add depth, while optional sesame seeds and green onions provide a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve warm for a satisfying bite that's both comforting and full of flavor, perfect as a main or easy side for weeknight meals or gatherings.

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Updated on Mon, 21 Jul 2025 21:49:03 GMT
A pan of cooked cauliflower with sauce. Save
A pan of cooked cauliflower with sauce. | sweetbyemma.com

Sweet and Savory Glazed Baked Cauliflower is a dish I whip up anytime I crave a healthy side that manages to feel like a treat. The golden roasted florets get tossed in a sticky glaze that is just the right mix of salty, sweet, and tangy. If you want a veggie that even picky eaters will reach for, this is it.

Ingredients

  • Cauliflower florets: A large head broken into even pieces makes sure every bite roasts up crisp and tender Purchase a tight firm cauliflower with pale creamy color and no brown patches
  • Olive oil: Helps crisp the edges and gives a subtle richness Choose extra virgin for the best flavor
  • Salt and pepper: Brings out the natural flavors in the cauliflower Use freshly cracked pepper for a bigger punch
  • Maple syrup: Gives that sticky caramelized shine and a gentle sweetness Use pure maple syrup or swap for honey if you like
  • Soy sauce: Provides deep umami and balances the sweetness Go with low sodium or tamari for a gluten free version
  • Apple cider vinegar: Adds a little kick and bright acidity Raw unfiltered is my favorite for a nuanced flavor
  • Garlic powder or minced garlic: Adds aromatic depth Fresh cloves will be stronger and more intense
  • Ginger powder or grated fresh ginger: Adds warmth and zing Try fresh for brighter notes
  • Sesame seeds and green onions: Add crunch and color as an optional garnish Always slice green onions just before serving for freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven and Pan:
Set your oven to 425 F and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper This prevents sticking and saves cleanup
Coat the Cauliflower:
In a big bowl toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil salt and pepper Toss thoroughly so every piece is lightly coated
Roast Until Golden:
Spread the florets in a single layer Give them breathing room for the best browning Roast for 20 to 25 minutes turning halfway through so all sides get color
Mix the Glaze:
While the cauliflower roasts whisk together the maple syrup soy sauce apple cider vinegar garlic powder and ginger powder Mix until you see no streaks and it is glossy
Glaze and Caramelize:
Take the roasted cauliflower from the oven Drizzle the glaze all over and gently toss until every floret has a good coating Return to the oven and roast for 5 to 7 minutes until the glaze is bubbling and clings to the florets
Garnish and Serve:
Right out of the oven scatter sesame seeds and green onions over the hot cauliflower Serve while warm for the best experience
A plate of food with a sauce on it. Save
A plate of food with a sauce on it. | sweetbyemma.com

I am always amazed at how the maple glaze brings out cauliflower sweet earthy undertones One time my daughter asked for seconds and insisted we make it for her birthday

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days This dish reheats beautifully in the oven or air fryer If you want to keep the florets crisp avoid microwaving

Ingredient Substitutions

Honey works in place of maple syrup for a non vegan option Coconut aminos can replace soy sauce for a soy free dish If you have fresh ginger or garlic it is worth grating them in

Serving Suggestions

Serve this glazed cauliflower as part of a grain bowl or pile it over steamed rice It makes a flavorful side for simple proteins like roasted tofu chicken or salmon I have even tossed leftovers in a salad or stuffed them in wraps

A Bit of Context

Glazed vegetables are a classic in many cuisines but glazing cauliflower with sweet and tangy Asian inspired flavors is a modern twist You get all the comfort of sticky takeout style veggies without any deep frying

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of sweetener can I use?

Maple syrup offers a rich sweetness, but honey works nicely if vegan is not required. Both pair well with soy sauce in the glaze.

→ How do I keep the cauliflower from becoming soggy?

Spread the florets in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roasting at high temperature ensures caramelized, crisp-tender results.

→ Can this be made gluten-free?

Yes, simply use tamari in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free version of the glaze.

→ Is fresh or powdered garlic preferred?

Both options work. Powdered garlic blends in smoothly, while fresh minced garlic brings an extra punch of flavor.

→ What garnishes work best for serving?

Sesame seeds and chopped green onions add crunch and fresh flavor, enhancing both texture and presentation.

→ Can I prepare the glaze ahead?

Yes, the glaze can be mixed in advance and kept refrigerated until ready to use with freshly baked cauliflower.

Sweet Savory Glazed Cauliflower

Oven-roasted cauliflower tossed in a glossy maple-soy glaze with hints of garlic and ginger.

Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
30 min
Total Time
40 min
By: Emma

Category: Side Dishes

Skill Level: Easy

Cuisine: Fusion

Yield: 4 Servings (1 large roasted cauliflower, approximately 4 servings)

Dietary Preferences: Vegan, Vegetarian, Dairy-Free

What You'll Need

→ Cauliflower

01 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
02 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Glaze

04 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey (for non-vegan option)
05 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option)
06 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
07 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 2 cloves minced garlic
08 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder or fresh grated ginger
09 Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, optional, for garnish

How to Make It

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 02

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.

Step 03

Spread the cauliflower in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender, turning halfway through cooking.

Step 04

While the cauliflower is roasting, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and ginger powder in a small bowl until combined.

Step 05

Remove the roasted cauliflower from the oven and drizzle the glaze over the florets. Toss gently to coat evenly, then return to the oven for another 5-7 minutes.

Step 06

Once the glaze is caramelized and bubbly, remove the cauliflower from the oven. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired, and serve warm.

Tools Required

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Parchment paper
  • Baking sheet

Allergen Information

Double-check each ingredient for allergens and reach out to a healthcare professional if you're unsure.
  • Soy (if using soy sauce)
  • Gluten (if not using tamari)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

These nutrition details are provided as a guide and are not a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Calories: 120
  • Fats: 5.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15.5 g
  • Proteins: 2.3 g