These maple glazed carrots are sweet, colorful, and easy to make! Tossed in a lovely blend of maple syrup and butter, they turn tender and glossy in no time.
Who knew carrots could taste so good? I love serving them as a side dish because they always steal the spotlight at dinner. Plus, they add a cheerful splash of color to my plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: These are super convenient as they’re already washed and ready to go. If you’re using regular carrots, just peel and cut them into sticks. You can also use other root veggies like parsnips or sweet potatoes for a twist!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is the star here, bringing a unique sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, honey or agave syrup are good substitutes, but they’ll change the flavor a bit. Choose wisely!
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds a lovely herbal note. If you don’t have fresh thyme on hand, dried thyme can work too—just use less since it’s more concentrated. Feel free to skip it if herbs aren’t your thing!
What’s the Best Way to Roast Carrots for Perfect Tenderness?
Roasting helps bring out the natural sweetness of carrots, but there are a few tricks to get them just right.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for a crispy finish.
- Make sure to spread the carrots in a single layer on your baking sheet. Crowding them can cause steaming rather than roasting.
- Tossing the carrots halfway through allows for even cooking and caramelization.
- Check for tenderness by poking a carrot with a fork towards the end of roasting. If it goes in easily, they’re ready!
By following these tips, you’ll get beautiful, glazed carrots every time. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Maple Glazed Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb baby carrots (or regular carrots peeled and cut into sticks)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- Pinch of garlic powder (optional)
- Coarse sea salt or flaky salt for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this delightful dish is around 30-35 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and another 20-25 minutes roasting the carrots to perfection. Easy to make and quick to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is perfect for roasting the carrots to get that lovely caramelization.
2. Prepare the Maple Butter Mixture:
In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in the maple syrup, salt, black pepper, and if you want, a pinch of garlic powder. Mix it all together until well combined and the ingredients are nice and smooth.
3. Arrange the Carrots:
Take a baking sheet or an oven-safe skillet and arrange the baby carrots (or the cut regular carrots) in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly.
4. Coat the Carrots:
Now, pour the maple butter mixture evenly over the carrots. Use your hands or a spatula to toss them, ensuring each carrot gets a generous coat of the sweet mixture.
5. Roast to Perfection:
Place the carrots in the preheated oven and roast them for about 20-25 minutes. Be sure to stir them halfway through! You’re looking for them to be tender and glazed. They should look deliciously shiny!
6. Add Thyme for Flavor:
If you’re using fresh thyme, sprinkle it over the carrots during the last 5 minutes of roasting. This will add a wonderful herb flavor to your dish.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the carrots are done roasting, take them out of the oven. Carefully transfer them to a serving dish, pouring over any leftover glaze from the pan. For an extra touch, sprinkle coarse sea salt or flaky salt on top just before serving.
8. Final Touch:
Serve the maple glazed carrots warm as a delightful side dish. They’re sweet, savory, and full of flavor, making them a great addition to any meal!
Enjoy your deliciously sweet and savory carrot dish—it’s bound to impress!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw them first and pat them dry to remove excess moisture. You might need to adjust the roasting time slightly, so keep an eye on them to ensure they cook through.
Can I Make These Carrots in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare and roast the carrots ahead of time. Just reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Drizzle with a bit of additional maple syrup or butter if they seem dry!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Maple Glazed Carrots?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a pan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Omit the Butter or Substitute It?
Yes! If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, you can substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor, but the dish will still be delicious!