Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots – Sweet, Caramelized Perfection

Chef Emma here, and let me tell you about the Thanksgiving that changed how my family views vegetables forever. I was planning the menu, carefully balancing the turkey, stuffing, and all those classic sides, when my mother-in-law called and asked what I was making for vegetables. I panicked a little—honestly, vegetables were always an afterthought on our holiday table.

That’s when I remembered these gorgeous, golden honey glazed roasted carrots I’d tried at a friend’s dinner party months earlier. I grabbed some fresh carrots, tossed them with honey, olive oil, garlic, and herbs, and roasted them until they were tender, caramelized, and absolutely irresistible.

When I pulled that sheet pan out of the oven on Thanksgiving Day, the sweet aroma filled the kitchen, and my family gathered around like I’d just revealed the main event.

Those carrots—glistening with honey glaze, perfectly tender with crispy caramelized edges, and garnished with fresh thyme—stole the show.

My kids, who normally avoid vegetables like the plague, asked for seconds. My husband declared them “better than pie” (okay, maybe he was exaggerating, but still!). And my mother-in-law? She quietly asked for the recipe before she left that night.

Since that memorable Thanksgiving, these honey roasted carrots have become a staple at our family table—not just for holidays, but for Sunday dinners, weeknight meals, and any time we want something that feels special but takes minimal effort.

There’s something magical about how the heat of the oven transforms humble carrots into something sweet, savory, and utterly crave-worthy. The honey caramelizes beautifully, creating a glossy glaze that clings to every bite.

The garlic adds depth, the thyme brings freshness, and the result is a side dish so delicious it might just upstage your main course.

Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots – Sweet, Caramelized Perfection

Tender, caramelized carrots roasted with honey, garlic, and fresh herbs. A simple yet elegant side dish perfect for Thanksgiving, holidays, or any family dinner. Ready in 35 minutes!

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Servings: 4

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• For the Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots:
• – 1½ pounds fresh carrots peeled
• – 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• – 2 tablespoons honey plus extra for drizzling
• – 2 cloves garlic minced
• – 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or ½ teaspoon dried
• – ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• – ½ teaspoon black pepper
• – ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
• For Garnish Optional:
• – Fresh thyme sprigs
• – Chopped fresh parsley
• – Extra honey drizzle
• – Flaky sea salt
• – Crumbled feta cheese optional
• – Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts

Equipment

• Large Baking Sheet
• – Parchment paper or foil
• – Large mixing bowl
• – Measuring spoons
• – Knife and cutting board
• Vegetable peeler
• – Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
2. Peel carrots and cut larger carrots in half lengthwise, then into 3-4 inch sticks about ½ inch thick. Leave baby carrots whole. Ensure all pieces are similar size for even cooking.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, minced garlic, fresh thyme, salt, pepper, and cinnamon if using until well combined.
4. Add prepared carrots to the bowl and toss thoroughly until every piece is completely coated with the honey glaze.
5. Transfer glazed carrots to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them in a single layer with space between pieces. Don’t overcrowd.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping carrots halfway through (around 12-15 minutes), until fork-tender and beautifully caramelized with golden brown edges.
7. Test doneness by piercing with a fork—it should slide in easily. Carrots should be tender but not mushy, with caramelized edges.
8. Remove from oven and transfer to a serving platter. Drizzle with extra honey if desired and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

– Choose uniform-sized carrots for even cooking
– Don’t skip flipping halfway through for even caramelization
– Watch closely during last 10 minutes as honey can burn
– Use parchment paper for easy cleanup
– Fresh thyme is more aromatic than dried
– Cut carrots on diagonal for prettier presentation
– Store leftovers in airtight container up to 4 days
– Best enjoyed fresh from oven

Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 120 kcal
Protein: 1g
Total Carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 11g
Total Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 420mg
Vitamin A: 17033 IU
Vitamin C: 6mg
Potassium: 320mg

Recipe Yield: 4 servings

Summary

Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots feature fresh carrots cut into sticks or left whole, tossed in a mixture of olive oil, honey, garlic, and herbs, then roasted until tender and beautifully caramelized. This Thanksgiving side dish takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, with only 10 minutes of hands-on prep time.

Perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any time you want to elevate a simple vegetable, these carrots serve 4-6 people and pair beautifully with roasted meats, fish, or vegetarian mains. They’re naturally gluten-free, can be made dairy-free, and deliver sweet, caramelized flavor that both kids and adults adore.

Equipment for Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots

You’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools:

• Large baking sheet – Preferably rimmed to contain the glaze
• Parchment paper or foil – For easy cleanup and prevents sticking
• Large mixing bowl – For tossing carrots with the glaze
• Measuring spoons – For accurate honey and oil amounts
• Knife and cutting board – For prepping carrots and garlic
• Vegetable peeler – To peel the carrots
• Oven – Preheated to 400°F

Ingredients for Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots

For the Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots:

• 1½ pounds fresh carrots, peeled
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey (plus extra for drizzling)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh thyme sprigs
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Extra honey drizzle
• Flaky sea salt
• Crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts

Directions for Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. This also prevents the honey from sticking and burning on the pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Carrots

Peel the carrots thoroughly using a vegetable peeler. For uniform cooking, try to choose carrots that are similar in size. Cut larger carrots in half lengthwise, then into 3-4 inch sticks about ½ inch thick. If using baby carrots or small carrots, you can leave them whole—they look beautiful and cook evenly. The key is ensuring all pieces are roughly the same size so they roast at the same rate.

Step 3: Make the Honey Glaze

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, minced garlic, fresh thyme, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon if using. The honey might be thick, so stir vigorously until everything is well combined and the garlic is evenly distributed. This sweet and savory glaze is what transforms ordinary carrots into something extraordinary!

Step 4: Coat the Carrots

Add the prepared carrots to the bowl with the honey glaze. Using your hands or a large spoon, toss the carrots thoroughly until every piece is completely coated with the glaze. Don’t rush this step—you want that honey mixture clinging to every surface for maximum caramelization and flavor.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Transfer the glazed carrots to your prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer. This is crucial! If the carrots are crowded or overlapping, they’ll steam instead of roast, and you won’t get those beautiful caramelized edges we’re after. Leave a little space between each carrot piece.

Step 6: Roast the Carrots

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, flipping the carrots halfway through cooking (around the 12-15 minute mark). You’ll know they’re done when they’re fork-tender, golden brown around the edges, and caramelized to perfection. The exact time depends on the thickness of your carrots—thinner pieces will cook faster, while thicker carrots may need the full 30 minutes or even slightly longer.

Step 7: Check for Doneness

Test the carrots by piercing one with a fork—it should slide in easily without resistance, but the carrot shouldn’t be mushy. You want them tender but still with a slight bite. The edges should be beautifully browned and caramelized, with some darker spots where the honey has created a gorgeous glaze.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove the carrots from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter while they’re still hot. If desired, drizzle with a little extra honey for added sweetness and shine. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs or chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm—these carrots are at their absolute best straight from the oven!

Tips and Variations

Chef Emma’s Pro Tips:

• Choose uniform carrots: Similar-sized carrots ensure even cooking—no raw centers or burnt edges
• Don’t skip the flip: Turning carrots halfway through ensures caramelization on all sides
• Watch the honey: Honey can burn quickly at high heat, so keep an eye on the carrots during the last 10 minutes
• Room temperature matters: Take carrots out of the fridge 15 minutes before roasting for more even cooking
• Use parchment: This makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticky burnt honey on your pan
• Fresh herbs win: Fresh thyme is significantly more aromatic than dried, but dried works in a pinch
• Cut on the diagonal: Angle your knife for prettier, more elegant carrot pieces

Delicious Variations:

• Maple Glazed Carrots: Substitute honey with pure maple syrup for deeper, richer sweetness
• Balsamic Honey Carrots: Add 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar to the glaze for tangy complexity
• Spicy Honey Carrots: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a sweet-heat combination
• Brown Butter Version: Use melted brown butter instead of olive oil for nutty richness
• Citrus Twist: Add 1 teaspoon orange zest and 1 tablespoon orange juice to the glaze
• Herb Garden: Mix in fresh rosemary, oregano, or sage along with the thyme
• Ginger Spice: Add ½ teaspoon freshly grated ginger for warm, spicy notes
• Garlic Butter Carrots: Use melted butter instead of oil and increase garlic to 4 cloves
• Parmesan Crusted: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese during the last 5 minutes of roasting

Serving Suggestions:

• Perfect alongside roasted turkey, chicken, or beef roast
• Pairs beautifully with glazed ham or roasted salmon
• Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete holiday spread
• Add to grain bowls or salads for extra roasted vegetable flavor
• Wonderful with grilled lamb chops or pork tenderloin
• Great in a vegetarian spread with quinoa and roasted Brussels sprouts

Storage and Reheating:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Not recommended—roasted carrots become mushy when frozen and thawed
• Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes until warmed through, or microwave for 1-2 minutes
• Make Ahead: You can peel and cut carrots up to 2 days ahead; store in water in the fridge
• Best Fresh: These carrots are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when they’re at peak caramelization

Nutrition Facts for Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots

Note: Nutrition facts are estimates based on standard ingredients. Values may vary based on specific brands, carrot sizes, and modifications.

Nutritional Highlights

These honey glazed roasted carrots are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious! Carrots are famously rich in beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A—essential for healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. Just one serving of these roasted carrots provides over 300% of your daily vitamin A needs! That bright orange color is nature’s way of telling you these vegetables are packed with powerful antioxidants.

Roasting carrots actually makes their nutrients more bioavailable, meaning your body can absorb and use them more efficiently. The addition of olive oil helps your body absorb those fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A and E. Carrots also provide fiber for digestive health, potassium for heart health and blood pressure regulation, and various B vitamins that support energy metabolism.

While honey adds natural sweetness and some antioxidants of its own, it does contribute to the sugar content. However, at about 11 grams of sugar per serving (much of which comes naturally from the carrots themselves), this is still a relatively healthy side dish—especially compared to many holiday options! The garlic provides immune-boosting compounds, and the herbs add phytonutrients and anti-inflammatory properties.

Dietitian Tips for Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots

• Increase fiber: Leave the skin on if your carrots are organic and well-washed—the skin contains extra fiber and nutrients
• Reduce sugar: Cut the honey in half or use just 1 tablespoon if you’re watching sugar intake—the carrots’ natural sweetness still shines through
• Boost healthy fats: Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil before serving to enhance vitamin absorption
• Add protein: Top with toasted nuts or seeds like pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for added protein and crunch
• Portion awareness: While vegetables are nutritious, honey and oil add calories—stick to reasonable portions
• Balance your plate: Pair these sweet carrots with lean protein and additional non-starchy vegetables for a balanced meal
• Antioxidant boost: The combination of carrots, garlic, and olive oil provides powerful antioxidants that fight inflammation

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?
Absolutely! Baby carrots work wonderfully in this recipe and save you prep time since they’re already peeled and sized. However, true baby carrots tend to have slightly less flavor than regular carrots. For best results, use “baby-cut carrots” (which are actually trimmed regular carrots) or small whole carrots left whole or halved lengthwise.

Why did my carrots burn instead of caramelize?
Honey can burn quickly at high temperatures. Make sure you’re roasting at 400°F (not higher) and that your carrots are evenly coated with both honey AND oil—the oil helps prevent burning. Also check that your oven temperature is accurate, as some ovens run hot. If your carrots start browning too quickly, tent them loosely with foil for the remaining cooking time.

How do I know when the carrots are done?
The carrots should be fork-tender (a fork pierces easily with little resistance) but not mushy or falling apart. They should have golden brown, caramelized edges with some darker spots. Depending on the thickness of your carrots, this typically takes 25-30 minutes at 400°F. Thicker carrots may need up to 35 minutes.

Can I make honey glazed roasted carrots ahead of time?
You can peel and cut the carrots up to 2 days ahead and store them in a container of water in the refrigerator. However, these carrots are best roasted fresh and served immediately when they’re hot and caramelized. If you must reheat them, use a 350°F oven for 10 minutes rather than the microwave to maintain their texture.

What can I substitute for honey?
Maple syrup is the best 1:1 substitute and provides a deeper, more complex sweetness. Agave nectar also works but is sweeter, so use about 1½ tablespoons instead of 2. For a refined sugar-free option, try date syrup. Brown sugar mixed with a little water can work in a pinch, though it won’t provide the same glossy glaze.

Are honey glazed roasted carrots suitable for special diets?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian. It’s also vegan-friendly if you substitute maple syrup or agave for the honey. For paleo diets, honey works perfectly. The recipe is nut-free and can easily fit into most dietary patterns. Just be mindful of the added sugars if you’re following a strict low-carb or diabetic diet.

Conclusion for Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots

These Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots are proof that the simplest recipes can create the most memorable moments at your table. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can transform ordinary carrots into a side dish that’s worthy of your holiday spread, elegant enough for dinner guests, yet easy enough for busy weeknight meals. The combination of sweet honey, aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and perfectly caramelized edges creates a flavor and texture that turns vegetable skeptics into enthusiastic fans.

Whether you’re planning your Thanksgiving menu, need a colorful side for Sunday dinner, or just want to make vegetables exciting again, these roasted carrots deliver every single time. My family requests them constantly, and I’m always happy to oblige because they’re as easy to make as they are delicious to eat. The best part? Watching even the pickiest eaters reach for seconds.

So grab a bunch of fresh carrots, drizzle them with honey and olive oil, and let your oven work its magic. These golden, caramelized beauties might just steal the spotlight at your next meal—and that’s perfectly okay! Here’s to making vegetables the star of the show!

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