Save This dish features tender carrots roasted to caramelized perfection with a sweet and aromatic glaze made from maple syrup, olive oil, and cumin. The combination creates a harmonious balance of sweetness and spice, enhanced further by optional smoked paprika and fresh herbs. Roasting concentrates the natural sugars in the carrots, adding richness and depth. This vibrant side complements many meals and suits vegetarian and gluten-free diets. Simple to prepare and bake, it elevates everyday vegetables into a delightful accompaniment.
The first time I made these glazed carrots, my kitchen smelled like a cozy autumn evening, with earthy cumin mingling with sweet maple syrup. My skeptical roommate took one bite and immediately asked for the recipe, now they are a regular rotation at our dinner parties.
I served these alongside a simple roasted chicken last Sunday, and my guests kept reaching across the table to grab just one more carrot. The platter was empty before anyone touched the main dish.
Ingredients
- Carrots: Whole small carrots develop lovely charred spots, while larger carrots cut into sticks cook more evenly and soak up the glaze beautifully
- Pure maple syrup: Real maple syrup adds a deep natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the warm spices, avoid pancake syrup which tastes artificial
- Olive oil: Helps the glaze cling to the carrots and promotes even roasting, use a good quality extra virgin for the best flavor
- Ground cumin: This earthy aromatic spice is the secret ingredient that gives these carrots their distinctive warm flavor profile
- Smoked paprika: Optional but highly recommended, it adds a subtle smoky depth that makes the dish taste more complex and interesting
- Fresh herbs: A final sprinkle of parsley or cilantro adds a bright fresh contrast to the rich sweet glaze
Instructions
- Get your oven ready:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, the high heat is what creates those gorgeous caramelized edges.
- Prep the carrots:
- Arrange your peeled carrots on the baking sheet, keeping them in a single layer so they roast evenly instead of steam.
- Whisk the glaze:
- In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended.
- Coat the carrots:
- Pour the glaze over your carrots and use your hands or tongs to toss everything until each piece is evenly coated.
- Roast to perfection:
- Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the carrots are tender when pierced and have golden brown caramelized spots.
- Finish and serve:
- Transfer the hot carrots to a serving platter and scatter with fresh herbs, then serve immediately while they are still warm and fragrant.
Save My niece who usually pushes vegetables around her plate actually asked for seconds, calling them candy carrots. Sometimes the simplest preparations are the ones that win hearts.
Choosing the Best Carrots
I have learned that smaller younger carrots tend to be sweeter and more tender, while larger carrots can have a woody core. If you find large carrots with a thick core, simply cut them into thinner sticks to ensure even cooking.
Making It Your Own
Once I added a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze and the subtle heat was incredible. You can also try ground coriander or a dash of cinnamon instead of cumin for a completely different flavor profile that still works beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can prep the carrots and whisk the glaze several hours ahead, then keep everything separate in the refrigerator until ready to roast. Leftovers reheat beautifully in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.
- The glaze thickens in the fridge, so let it come to room temperature before tossing with the carrots
- Avoid microwaving leftovers as it makes the carrots rubbery instead of tender
- These carrots actually taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop
Save There is something deeply satisfying about taking a humble vegetable and turning it into a dish that everyone reaches for first.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I ensure the carrots roast evenly?
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Arrange the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet and turn them halfway through roasting to promote even caramelization.
- → Can I substitute maple syrup with another sweetener?
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Yes, honey works well as a substitute but note it’s not vegan. Adjust sweetness to taste.
- → What does cumin add to the glaze?
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Cumin provides a warm, earthy aroma that complements the sweetness of maple syrup, enhancing flavor complexity.
- → Is smoked paprika necessary in the glaze?
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Smoked paprika is optional but adds a subtle smoky depth that enriches the overall taste.
- → How can I add a bit of heat to the dish?
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A pinch of chili flakes stirred into the glaze brings subtle spiciness that balances the sweetness.
- → What herbs work best as garnish?
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Fresh parsley or cilantro chopped and sprinkled on top brightens the dish with herbal freshness.
