The BEST Maple Glazed Carrots (2024)

These are the best roasted carrots you will ever eat! These easy maple glazed carrots require minimal prep time and tending to, making them the perfect easy side dish for any holiday table or Sunday dinner- from Thanksgiving, Christmas or Easter- these glazed carrots compliment every feast.

Slender carrots are the perfect choice, preferably with their green tops still attached, but large carrots will also work. Just skip the baby carrots on this one. Maple syrup brings out the root vegetable's natural sweetness and a pinch of sea salt and squeeze of lemon balance the flavors.

These roasted carrots pair amazingly well with this roasted leg of lamb, or this one pot roast chicken. And if you need some more side dishes to pair with this, then the roasted broccoli and cauliflower is perfect along with these gratin potatoes.

🧾 Ingredient notes and substitutions

A highlight of essential ingredients and suggested substitutes for dietary needs or personal preferences. For precise measurements, refer to the recipe card below.

• Carrots: Choose fresh, firm carrots for the best texture and flavor. Organic carrots can have a sweeter, more pronounced flavor. *Skip baby carrots- they won't give the result we're looking for.
• Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup provides a richer, more authentic flavor than artificial maple-flavored syrups. *Dark maple syrup has more flavor and light maple has more sweetness. Most maple syrup comes from Quebec and has 4 classifications ranging from golden to very dark. I always opt for dark or amber, but this recipe works great with all of them.
• Butter or Vegan Butter: Adds a rich, creamy dimension to the glaze. Vegan butter ensures the dish is plant-based.
• Lemon Juice: A splash of acidity to brighten the flavors and cut through the sweetness.
• Fresh Thyme or Rosemary (Optional for Garnish): Adds an aromatic touch and elevates the dish's presentation.
• Flaky Sea Salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots and balances the flavors in the dish.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Offers a subtle heat and depth, complementing the sweetness of the syrup and carrots.

See recipe card for quantities.

👩🏻‍🍳 Maple glazed carrots in 4 easy steps

• Prep your baking tray and preheat your oven
  • Line your tray with foil for easy cleanup: Roasting maple syrup can be messy, so using foil instead of parchment ensures a hassle-free clean-up.
  • Roast in a single layer and monitor closely: Arrange carrots in a single layer for even cooking and crispy edges, and keep an eye on them to prevent over-caramelization; a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of sea salt at the end perfectly balance the sweetness.

• Preparing the glaze and carrots for roasting
  • Create the perfect maple glaze: Mix pure maple syrup and melted butter or a vegan alternative to achieve a rich, creamy, sweet glaze. Tailor the sweetness by adjusting the maple syrup to your liking. Toss the carrots in the glaze, being sure to coat the carrots evenly.
  • Roasting to golden brown perfection: Lay the glazed carrots flat on your baking tray for uniform cooking. Roast until they're tender and golden brown, typically 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally for even caramelization.
  • Finishing touches for serving: Remove them from the oven once the carrots are roasted to perfection. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with flaky sea salt to balance the sweetness. For added flavor and visual impact, garnish with fresh herbs like chopped rosemary or thyme.

🍯 Storing and reheating leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F to maintain texture and flavor.
• Not recommended for freezing.

❓Recipe FAQ's

Meet the Chef!

Hi, I'm Debs. Cordon Bleu trained chef and recipe developer. I help you get incredible dinners on the table fast with fool-proof recipes and step-by-step instructions along with tips and tricks that I've learned over a 10-year career in professional kitchens.

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