Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots are a simple but delicious way to enjoy sweet, tender carrots with a beautiful golden glaze. The honey adds a natural sweetness that caramelizes during roasting, making the carrots soft on the inside with slightly crisp and sticky edges. It’s one of those easy dishes that instantly makes any meal feel a little more special.
I love making this as a quick side for dinner because it comes together so fast, yet everyone seems to love the sweet and savory balance. Sometimes, I add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a pinch of cinnamon to give it a little twist, but honestly, the honey and olive oil do most of the magic. Plus, roasting carrots brings out their natural sugars even more, which makes it a hit especially with kids.
For serving, I like to pile these carrots right on the plate next to roasted chicken or grilled steak. They’re also great cooled down in a salad or chopped into a grain bowl. It’s a recipe I keep coming back to again and again when I want something bright, warm, and just a little bit special with minimal effort.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Carrots: Baby carrots are great for quick roasting, but regular carrots work well too—just peel and cut them evenly for even cooking. I like using orange carrots, but colorful carrots add a fun twist.
Honey: Honey gives the carrots a natural sweetness and beautiful glaze. If you want a different flavor, try maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute—they both work great.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps the carrots roast nicely and adds a subtle richness. You can swap with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if preferred.
Seasonings: Salt and pepper are essential for balancing flavors. Garlic powder is optional but I add it for a nice savory touch. Fresh herbs like parsley brighten the dish at the end.
How Do You Get Perfectly Glazed, Tender Roasted Carrots?
The key to this recipe is coating the carrots evenly and roasting them just right. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix the carrots with the honey, oil, and seasonings in a large bowl, making sure every piece is well covered.
- Spread the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet—crowding slows cooking and prevents caramelization.
- Roast at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway to brown all sides.
- Look for glossy, caramelized edges and tender insides. If they aren’t tender yet, roast a few minutes more.
- Finish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I use a rimmed sheet to hold all the carrots and prevent spills.
- Parchment paper or lightly greased baking sheet – keeps the carrots from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Mixing bowl – helps you toss the carrots evenly with honey, oil, and seasonings.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate measurements of honey, oil, and seasonings.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – for tossing the carrots without breaking them apart.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap honey with maple syrup for a deeper, richer sweetness.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar before roasting for tangy, sweet glaze.
- Include chopped fresh thyme or rosemary to give a fragrant herbal note.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over the carrots just before serving for a creamy touch.
Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Roasted Carrots:
- 1 1/2 pounds baby carrots (or regular carrots peeled and cut into uniform pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the carrots and mixing the glaze. Then, the carrots roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized. Altogether, this tasty side dish takes around 35-40 minutes to make.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Carrots:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the baby carrots with olive oil, honey, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder if you like. Make sure every carrot is nicely coated with the glaze for the best flavor.
2. Roast the Carrots:
Spread the coated carrots out evenly in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the carrots for 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, stir them around so they cook and caramelize evenly. Look for tender carrots with a shiny, sweet glaze.
3. Garnish and Serve:
When the carrots are done, transfer them to a serving dish. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a bright and fresh flavor. Serve warm as a delicious side dish. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but be sure to thaw and drain them well first to avoid extra moisture that can prevent caramelization. Pat them dry with paper towels before tossing with the glaze.
Can I Make Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Roast the carrots in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving. You might want to drizzle a little extra honey or olive oil when reheating to refresh the glaze.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you don’t have honey, maple syrup or agave nectar make great alternatives and provide a similar sweetness and glossy finish. Just swap in an equal amount.
How Do I Store Leftover Roasted Carrots?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.
