Name: Oven‑Roasted Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs carrots, peeled and cut on the bias into 1/2-inch thick slices; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp ground black pepper; 2 tbsp vegan butter (or regular butter if not vegan); 3 tbsp brown sugar; 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground ginger; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love Oven‑Roasted Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots Recipe

• The carrots are caramelized to perfection with a sweet and slightly tangy glaze
• Uses simple pantry ingredients you likely already have on hand
• A crowd‑pleasing side dish that pairs beautifully with roasts, poultry, or grilled meats

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 pounds carrots
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh thyme
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley
3 tablespoons brown sugar
Optional garnish: pomegranate seeds, extra parsley, chopped walnuts or pecans

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Wash, peel, and trim the carrots, then cut them in half lengthwise.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, cinnamon, thyme, and parsley.
Pour the glaze over the carrots and toss well to coat. Spread the carrots on a large baking sheet.
Roast the carrots for 20 minutes, stirring once or twice during cooking to ensure even roasting.
Remove the carrots from the oven, sprinkle the brown sugar over the top, and stir to coat. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.
Serve warm, garnished with pomegranate seeds, extra parsley, or nuts if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves about 6–8 people
Prep time: about 10 minutes
Cook time: about 35 minutes

Variations

• Swap honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option or different sweetness
• Use rainbow carrots for added visual appeal
• Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a hint of heat
• Include roasted parsnips or sweet potatoes for a root vegetable medley
• Add orange zest or juice to the glaze for a citrusy twist

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave in short intervals. Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the carrots.

FAQs

How do I choose the best carrots for this recipe?

Choose large, evenly sized carrots so they roast evenly. If they’re very thick, cut them lengthwise or into smaller pieces.

Can I use baby carrots instead of large ones?

Yes, baby carrots can be used. They may cook slightly faster, so monitor them closely during roasting.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the carrots and glaze ahead of time. Store separately and combine just before roasting.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

You can use dried herbs in place of fresh. Use about one-third the amount listed for fresh herbs.

Do I need to peel the carrots?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on if thoroughly washed and tender.

Can I substitute maple syrup for honey?

Absolutely. Maple syrup works just as well and adds a slightly different, richer sweetness.

Is this recipe gluten free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are naturally gluten free.

How can I prevent the brown sugar from burning?

Add the brown sugar halfway through the roasting time to prevent burning and ensure a nice glaze.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, root vegetables like sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even beets work well when cut to similar sizes.

What can I serve with these glazed carrots?

They pair beautifully with roasted chicken, turkey, pork tenderloin, or vegetarian grain bowls.

Conclusion

This oven-roasted brown sugar honey glazed carrots recipe is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, enhanced with herbs and a touch of spice. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or preparing a simple weeknight meal, these glazed carrots are easy to make, beautifully presented, and full of comforting flavor.

Oven‑Roasted Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots