Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots are a simple and delightful side dish that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots with a shiny, sugary glaze. The carrots get tender in the oven while the honey caramelizes just enough to add a lovely golden color and a bit of extra flavor. They’re easy to make but feel special enough for a family dinner or holiday meal.
I really enjoy making these when I want something quick but tasty on the side. The best part is how the honey and a little bit of butter or olive oil work together to give the carrots a nice, soft texture and just the right amount of sweetness. I like to sprinkle a tiny pinch of salt or some fresh herbs on top to balance the flavors and keep things interesting.
These roasted carrots go perfectly with a variety of main dishes, from roasted chicken to pork or even a cozy meatloaf night. I often make an extra batch because they’re so good as leftovers, either cold in a salad or warmed up. They’re one of those dishes that even picky eaters tend to love, probably because the honey gives them a friendly, comforting taste that everyone can enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are quick and easy, but regular carrots work just fine if peeled and sliced evenly. This helps them roast evenly and get that sweet glaze.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice flavor and helps the carrots roast well. If you want a milder taste, use vegetable or canola oil instead.
Honey: Honey gives the glaze its sweetness and shine. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be good substitutes if you want a different kind of sweetness or need a vegan option.
Thyme: Fresh thyme is best for the bright herbal note, but dried thyme works well too. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or oregano can also pair nicely with carrots.
How Do You Get the Perfect Honey Glaze on Roasted Carrots?
Coating the carrots evenly and getting that sticky, shiny glaze can be tricky. Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix carrots thoroughly in the bowl with oil, honey, and seasoning. Make sure every piece is well coated.
- Arrange carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet—crowding them can cause steaming instead of roasting.
- Turn carrots halfway through roasting. This helps all sides caramelize evenly and the honey glaze to develop a nice shine.
- Watch the time closely; roasting too long can burn the honey, so a gentle golden brown is what you want.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I like it because it gives the carrots space to roast evenly and get that nice caramelization.
- Mixing bowl – helps toss the carrots with olive oil, honey, and herbs so everything is coated well.
- Measuring spoons – ensures you add just the right amount of honey, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – keeps the carrots from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweet flavor and a vegan option.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar before roasting for a tangy twist that enhances the sweetness.
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts on top after roasting for extra crunch.
- Mix in sliced red onions or garlic cloves with the carrots for more layers of flavor.
Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound baby carrots (or regular carrots peeled and cut into sticks)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to roast, so around 35-40 minutes total. The roasting time gives the carrots a lovely tender texture with a sweet, glossy honey glaze.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot for roasting your carrots.
2. Coat the Carrots:
In a large bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, honey, thyme, salt, and pepper until every piece is coated evenly. This mix will help the carrots roast perfectly with a tasty glaze.
3. Arrange and Roast:
Spread the carrots out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes. Be sure to turn the carrots halfway through so they get caramelized evenly on all sides.
4. Serve Warm:
Once the carrots are tender and have a shiny honey glaze, take them out of the oven. Transfer to a serving dish and add a few fresh thyme leaves on top if you like. Enjoy them warm as a sweet and savory side dish!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry first to avoid extra moisture. This helps them roast evenly and get that lovely caramelized glaze.
Can I Substitute Honey with Another Sweetener?
Absolutely! Maple syrup or agave nectar work well as alternatives and can also make the recipe vegan-friendly. Just use the same amount as the honey called for.
How Should I Store Leftover Roasted Carrots?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep them tender and flavorful.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can toss the carrots with the oil and honey mixture ahead and refrigerate for a few hours before roasting. Just bring them to room temperature before putting them in the oven for even cooking.
