Maple glazed carrots are sweet and tasty! These colorful veggies are cooked to a tender perfection and then coated in a yummy maple syrup glaze that brings out their natural sweetness.
Every bite is like a little party in your mouth! I love serving these at dinner; they add a nice touch to any meal. Plus, they’re super easy to make—who doesn’t love that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are sweet, tender, and perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find them, regular carrots cut into sticks work just as well. Choose colorful varieties like purple or orange for a fun twist!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is the star here, adding rich sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, honey or agave syrup can make a good alternative, though the flavor will be different.
Butter: Unsalted butter helps to balance the sweetness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or vegan butter will do nicely without altering the taste too much.
Herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme are lovely garnishes. If you don’t have fresh herbs, try dried versions or simply skip the herb altogether for a clean flavor.
How Do You Roast Carrots for the Best Flavor?
Roasting carrots is simple but requires a few steps for max flavor and tenderness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to preheat your oven properly to 400°F for even cooking.
- Toss the carrots in melted butter and maple syrup thoroughly—this helps them caramelize nicely.
- Arrange the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure they roast, not steam. Crowding can lead to uneven cooking.
- Turn the carrots halfway through roasting to get that perfect golden-brown color all over.
- Check for tenderness with a fork; they should be easy to pierce but not mushy.
Following these tips will ensure your maple glazed carrots turn out delicious every time!
How to Make Maple Glazed Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds whole baby carrots, peeled (or regular carrots cut into sticks)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley or thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Flaky sea salt, for finishing (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe requires about 10 minutes of preparation time, plus 25-30 minutes for roasting in the oven. In total, you’ll spend around 40 minutes to create these deliciously sweet, caramelized maple glazed carrots!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your carrots roast beautifully and get that nice caramelization.
2. Prepare the Carrots:
In a large bowl, toss the peeled baby carrots with the melted unsalted butter, pure maple syrup, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure the carrots are well coated for maximum flavor!
3. Arrange for Roasting:
Spread the coated carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. It’s important not to overcrowd them; they need space to roast properly.
4. Roast the Carrots:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Roast the carrots for about 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking. They should be tender when pierced with a fork and beautifully caramelized on the outside.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Once roasted, take the carrots out of the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Drizzle any delicious glaze left on the baking sheet over the top. If you like, sprinkle with flaky sea salt and some fresh chopped herbs for extra flavor and a lovely pop of color.
6. Enjoy Your Dish:
Serve these warm as a fantastic side dish for roasted meats, or pair them with other awesome holiday dishes. Enjoy the sweet, tender, and glossy goodness of your maple glazed carrots!
This recipe is a perfect addition to any meal and is sure to impress your family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
While fresh carrots are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen carrots if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before tossing them with the glaze to ensure they roast properly.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Glaze?
If you prefer a sweeter glaze, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup. Conversely, if you want it less sweet, reduce the syrup slightly and add a bit more butter for richness instead.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can mix in other vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for a more colorful and diverse dish. Just cut them into similar sizes to ensure even roasting.