Name: Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon melted butter; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional); 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or parsley, chopped

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There is something truly magical about the way simple ingredients can be transformed into a dish that delights every sense. The Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe is exactly that kind of dish—each carrot piece becomes tender and caramelized, coated in a luscious honey glaze that perfectly balances sweetness with warm spices and a savory hint. Whether you’re looking for an easy side or a vibrant addition to your dinner table, this recipe brings together simplicity and flavor in a truly irresistible way that I promise you’ll want to make again and again.

Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a handful of everyday ingredients that come together to create something exceptional. Each one is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color—making your roasted carrots sing with every bite.

2 lbs carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces: Fresh carrots provide sweetness and the perfect canvas for roasting.
3 tablespoons honey: Adds rich sweetness and helps achieve that beautiful glazed finish.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Imparts a silky texture and aids in caramelization.
1 tablespoon melted butter: Brings additional richness and a touch of indulgence.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to balance the sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Gives a cozy warmth, perfect for autumnal vibes.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A savory contrast that deepens the overall taste profile.
1 teaspoon fresh thyme or parsley, chopped: Fresh herbs add brightness and color as a final touch.
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar (optional): Offers a tangy depth that elevates the glaze beautifully.

How to Make Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or apply a light grease to prevent sticking. This simple step sets the stage for perfectly roasted carrots with no fuss cleaning afterward.

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Peeling and cutting the carrots into uniform 2-inch pieces ensures they roast evenly. If you prefer a more rustic touch, whole baby carrots work wonderfully too. Consistent size is key to cooking them to tender perfection without over or under-roasting.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

Whisk together honey, olive oil, melted butter, salt, black pepper, cinnamon (if you’re using it), garlic powder, and balsamic vinegar in a small bowl. This blend is the star of the recipe, crafting a rich and nuanced glaze that will kiss the carrots with flavor during roasting.

Step 4: Toss and Coat

Place your carrot pieces in a large mixing bowl, then pour the honey glaze over them. Toss everything thoroughly, making sure every single carrot is evenly coated. This step guarantees that luscious caramelization happens all over when the carrots roast.

Step 5: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Spread the glazed carrots out in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. It’s tempting to cram them all on, but giving them space is crucial—this prevents steaming and encourages those slightly crisp, caramelized edges that make this dish unforgettable.

Step 6: Roast to Perfection

Roast the carrots for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through baking. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden and caramelized, while the insides remain tender and luscious. The aroma alone will have your mouth watering in no time.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once roasted, transfer the carrots to a beautiful serving dish and sprinkle freshly chopped thyme or parsley on top. These fresh herbs add a lovely pop of color and lift the dish with their herbal brightness. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect blend of textures and flavors.

How to Serve Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley are classic choices, but feel free to get creative with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or a light dusting of smoked paprika. These garnishes not only add visual appeal but also introduce new layers of flavor that complement the honey glaze beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, especially roast chicken or pork. It also brightens up a vegetarian plate as a sweet-savory vegetable side or as part of a festive holiday spread. The versatility of the Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe means it can adapt to almost any meal effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, arrange the glazed carrots over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or sprinkle them around a savory grain like quinoa or wild rice. You can also serve them chilled on a salad for a delicious contrast of textures and temperatures. The vibrant color and aroma make any plate pop with charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover roasted honey glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delightful as fresh.

Freezing

If you want to stash some for later, freezing is an option though the texture may soften slightly upon thawing. Place cooled carrots in a freezer-safe container and try to use them within 2 months for the best quality.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the carrots in a skillet over medium heat to restore caramelized edges or briefly roast them in a hot oven. Avoid the microwave if you want to preserve that perfect roast texture—going slow and steady is the way to go.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots instead of regular ones?

Absolutely! Baby carrots work beautifully and can be roasted whole, giving a lovely rustic look and sweeter bite. Just adjust cooking time slightly if needed.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All ingredients in this Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe are naturally gluten-free, so it’s safe for gluten-sensitive diets without any substitutions.

Can I substitute maple syrup for honey?

You can swap honey for maple syrup to create a slightly different but equally delicious glaze. Maple syrup adds a subtle earthiness that pairs nicely with the spices.

How do I make this dish less sweet?

Simply reduce the amount of honey or add a splash of fresh lemon juice to balance the sweetness with a bit of brightness.

What other spices can I experiment with?

Cumin, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of nutmeg make excellent additions for new flavor twists. Feel free to play around and find your favorite combo.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting and satisfying about roasting carrots until they turn golden and glazing them with honey that you just have to try it to believe it. The Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe is an effortless way to elevate a simple vegetable into a celebration of flavor, texture, and color. I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a whirl and bring its warmth and sweetness to your table—happy roasting!

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Roasted Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 11 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These roasted honey glazed carrots are a deliciously sweet and savory side dish, perfectly caramelized with honey, olive oil, and a hint of warm spices. Roasted to tender perfection and garnished with fresh herbs, they add a vibrant pop of color and flavor to any meal.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Carrots: Trim and peel the carrots, then cut them into even 2-inch pieces for consistent cooking. If using baby carrots, leave them whole.
Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, melted butter, salt, black pepper, cinnamon (if using), garlic powder, and balsamic vinegar to create a rich and flavorful glaze.
Toss and Coat: Place the carrots in a large bowl and pour the glaze over them. Toss well to ensure each piece is fully coated for even caramelization.
Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding to prevent steaming.
Roast to Perfection: Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the carrots halfway through cooking. The edges should be golden and caramelized, and the centers tender.
Garnish and Serve: Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley. Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor.

Notes

Start with fresh, firm carrots for better roasting and sweetness.
Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; give carrots space to roast properly.
Adjust the amount of honey if you prefer less sweetness, or add a splash of lemon juice to balance flavors.
Experiment with spices like cumin, paprika, or nutmeg for different flavor variations.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American