Roasted Carrots with Honey Glaze

Name: Roasted Carrots with Honey Glaze
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 pound of carrots, peeled and cut into sticks; 2 tablespoons of honey; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 1 teaspoon of salt; 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper; Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Favorites

I absolutely love making Roasted Carrots with Honey Glaze, as they bring out such a wonderful sweetness from the vegetables. Every time I prepare this dish, the kitchen fills with a delightful aroma that raises everyone's anticipation for dinner. The combination of honey and roasted carrots creates a perfect balance of flavors, enticing both children and adults alike. I find that using fresh herbs really elevates the dish, making it a vibrant addition to any meal. Plus, it's incredibly easy to prepare, which makes it one of my go-to recipes for gatherings.

Created by

Seraphina Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:18:46.254Z

When I first decided to make roasted carrots, I didn't expect them to turn out this tasty. I discovered that roasting enhances their natural sweetness and adds a delightful caramelized exterior. It was a game changer!

I also learned that a splash of honey elevates the flavor profile. This addition not only amplifies the sweetness but also creates a beautiful glaze that makes the carrots shine on the plate. It’s a fantastic trick that I now use for various roasted vegetables!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Natural sweetness from perfectly roasted carrots
A delicious honey glaze that caramelizes beautifully
Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up for any occasion

      

The Sweet Science of Roasting

Roasting carrots brings out their natural sugars, creating a deeper flavor profile that enhances any meal. When you expose the carrots to high heat, the outside caramelizes, forming a sugary crust while the inside stays tender. This is the magic of Maillard reaction, which transforms simple vegetables into a flavorful side dish. To achieve the best texture, make sure your carrots are uniform in size—this ensures even cooking and prevents some from becoming mushy while others are underdone.

In this recipe, the honey not only sweetens the dish but also aids in the caramelization process. As the honey heats, it transforms into a rich glaze that clings beautifully to the carrots. If you're looking to add a twist, feel free to explore different types of honey. Clover honey offers a mild sweetness, while wildflower can introduce a more robust flavor profile, enhancing complexity in each bite.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

While this dish is delightful on its own, the addition of fresh thyme adds a fragrant herbaceous note that complements the sweet carrots wonderfully. Simply sprinkle the thyme leaves over the roasted carrots just before serving to maintain their vibrant color. You could also consider tossing in a few crushed garlic cloves along with the carrots before roasting for an extra layer of flavor. Garlic becomes sweet and mellow in the oven, harmonizing perfectly with the honey's sweetness.

For an exciting presentation, consider serving your roasted carrots atop a bed of creamy goat cheese or a dollop of yogurt to balance the flavors. The tangy creaminess contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the carrots and adds a touch of sophistication to your dish. This presentation is particularly appealing for dinner parties or family gatherings, transforming a simple side dish into a highlight of the meal.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 pound of carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
2 tablespoons of honey
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Fresh thyme for garnish (optional)

Once you have everything, you are ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly roasted carrots:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare the Carrots

In a large bowl, combine the carrot sticks, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss until the carrots are well coated.

Roasting the Carrots

Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are tender and caramelized.

Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove the carrots from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme if desired. Serve warm.

Your delicious Roasted Carrots with Honey Glaze are ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper before roasting. Additionally, using different varieties of carrots can bring unique flavors to the dish.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning ahead, you can prep the carrots earlier in the day. After cutting and coating them in olive oil and honey, place the mixture in an airtight container and refrigerate. This not only saves time but can also allow the flavors to meld, enhancing the final dish. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before roasting; this will help ensure they roast evenly and caramelize beautifully.

For those hosting larger gatherings, consider doubling the recipe. Roasted carrots can easily scale up without losing their charm. Simply use additional baking sheets to ensure there is enough space for the carrots to roast evenly. A crowded pan can result in steaming rather than roasting, leading to less desirable texture.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover roasted carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They make for a delicious addition to salads, grain bowls, or even as a sandwich topping. If you find yourself with extras, don’t let them go to waste! Just reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their texture, or toss them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and slightly crispy.

While reheating, you might consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to revive their flavors. This can brighten the dish and keep the carrots from tasting too sweet after refrigeration. I often find a little acidity helps balance the richness of the honey glaze, making your leftovers just as delightful as when they were freshly roasted.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use baby carrots instead?

Yes, baby carrots work well too. Just adjust the cooking time as they might roast faster.

→ Which other herbs can I use?

In addition to thyme, rosemary or parsley can complement the flavors nicely.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can replace honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.