Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots are a simple, sweet, and colorful side dish that brightens up any meal. The carrots get tender and caramelized in the oven, while the honey adds a gentle sweetness that makes each bite just a little bit special. A touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt help bring out their natural flavor, making these carrots a favorite for both kids and adults.
I love making these carrots whenever I want something easy but still impressive on the dinner table. They come together quickly, and the smell of roasting honey and carrots fills the kitchen with warmth. Sometimes I add a little fresh thyme or a dash of cinnamon to mix things up. It’s such a simple recipe, yet the flavors always feel like a cozy hug.
My favorite way to serve these honey glazed carrots is alongside roasted chicken or a hearty grain bowl. They add a nice pop of color and a sweet touch that balances savory dishes perfectly. Plus, they taste even better the next day if you have leftovers, making them great for meal prep or a quick snack.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Carrots: Small, tender carrots roast evenly and caramelize well. If unavailable, regular carrots cut into similar-sized sticks work fine. Just peel and trim to ensure even cooking.
Honey: Honey provides natural sweetness and a sticky glaze. Maple syrup or agave syrup can be used instead for a different but still sweet flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is optional but adds a nice tang that balances the sweetness. You can skip it or try apple cider vinegar for a milder bite.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a savory punch. Mince finely so it blends well with the glaze without burning during roasting.
Butter: Adds richness if you want a more luxurious taste. Use vegan butter or olive oil for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Get Perfectly Caramelized and Tender Roasted Carrots?
Roasting carrots to get a soft inside and slightly crisp, caramelized outside is key. Here’s how:
- Coat carrots evenly with oil and honey mixture to help with browning and flavor.
- Spread carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet to avoid steaming.
- Roast at a high temperature (425°F) so the natural sugars caramelize quickly without drying out.
- Turn carrots halfway during roasting to ensure even color and texture on all sides.
- Check tenderness by piercing with a fork at the end; carrots should be soft but not mushy.
- If adding butter, toss carrots in melted butter right after roasting for extra flavor and shine.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I suggest a rimmed sheet to keep juices in and make tossing easy.
- Mixing bowl – great for stirring the honey glaze and coating the carrots evenly.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for precise amounts of honey, oil, and vinegar.
- Spatula or tongs – helps you turn the carrots during roasting without breaking them.
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper – keeps cleanup quick and prevents sticking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the glaze for warm spice notes that go well with the sweetness.
- Include a splash of orange juice or zest in the glaze for a fresh citrus twist.
- Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts after roasting for crunch and added flavor.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different, deeper sweetness with a hint of caramel.
Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Carrots and Glaze:
- 1 lb baby carrots, peeled and washed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional for a tangy touch)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra richness)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 35 to 40 minutes in total. It takes 5-10 minutes to prepare the carrots and glaze, plus 25-30 minutes roasting time until tender and caramelized. Then, just a quick toss with butter if you like, and you’re ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Glaze:
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to get it nice and hot. In a large bowl, mix olive oil, honey, balsamic vinegar (if using), minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth, sweet glaze.
2. Coat the Carrots:
Add the peeled baby carrots to the bowl. Toss gently but thoroughly, making sure each carrot is evenly coated with the honey glaze mixture. This will help them caramelize beautifully in the oven.
3. Roast the Carrots:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a roasting pan. Arrange the carrots in a single layer so they roast evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, use tongs or a spatula to gently turn the carrots for even caramelization. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender inside and have a little crisp on the outside.
4. Add Butter and Garnish:
If you’re using butter, melt it while the carrots finish roasting. Once out of the oven, toss the carrots in the melted butter for extra richness. Finally, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely, fragrant touch. Serve warm and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture. This helps them roast better without steaming.
How Should I Store Leftover Honey Glazed Carrots?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving to maintain their texture.
Can I Substitute Honey with Another Sweetener?
Absolutely! Maple syrup or agave syrup are great alternatives that will still give a sweet, sticky glaze with a slightly different flavor.
What Can I Serve with Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots?
These carrots pair beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or alongside grain dishes like quinoa or rice. They also work well as a side for holiday meals!