Roasted Carrots With Honey

Name: Roasted Carrots With Honey
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Collection

I absolutely love how roasted carrots with honey bring out the natural sweetness of this vibrant vegetable. Combining the earthy flavors of the carrots with a touch of honey transforms a simple side dish into something extraordinary. The caramelization that occurs during roasting adds depth and richness, making these carrots a favorite at my dinner table. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also elevates any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

Created by

Nola Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:41:36.696Z

When I first tried roasting carrots with honey, I was blown away by how the flavors mingled beautifully. I decided to experiment with different seasonings and discovered that a sprinkle of cinnamon accentuates the sweetness of the honey, making the dish even more delightful. The key is to roast them at a higher temperature, which allows the carrots to caramelize perfectly while maintaining their natural crunch.

This recipe quickly became a go-to for family dinners. I love to prepare them alongside roasted meats. The way the honey glazes the carrots creates a stunning presentation, making them feel like a celebratory dish while still being easy enough for a weeknight meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The natural sweetness of carrots enhanced by honey
Simple preparation that yields gourmet results
Perfect balance of caramelization and crunch

The Role of Honey

Honey not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the caramelization process, creating a delightful glaze on the carrots. When roasted, the sugars in honey caramelize, intensifying the natural flavors of the carrots. This reaction starts around 320°F (160°C), so ensuring your oven is at the right temperature is key to achieving that beautiful color and taste.

For a variation, consider using different types of honey, such as wildflower or clover, which have distinct flavor profiles. You can also adjust the quantity of honey based on your preference for sweetness. Just keep in mind that reducing honey might alter the caramelization slightly, leading to a different, less sticky finish.

Perfecting the Roast

Roasting at a high temperature helps to soften the carrots while developing a crispy exterior. When you spread the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet, make sure they are not overcrowded; this allows them to roast evenly without steaming. You should aim for lightly browned edges and a tender texture, which usually takes about 25-30 minutes.

While roasting, give the carrots a good stir halfway through to ensure even cooking and caramelization. If they still appear a bit firm towards the end of cooking, continue roasting them for an additional 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them for that perfect golden-brown finish without burning.

Serving Suggestions

These roasted carrots with honey can be served as a warm side dish or as part of a cold salad. Try adding them to a grain bowl with quinoa or farro, and toss in some feta cheese and nuts for added depth. This combination not only adds texture but also contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the carrots.

For make-ahead convenience, roast the carrots, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, gently reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which helps maintain their flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious roasted carrots with honey:

Ingredients

1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create flavorful roasted carrots with honey:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that delicious caramelization.

Prepare the carrots

In a large bowl, toss the sliced carrots with olive oil, honey, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon until well-coated.

Roast the carrots

Spread the carrots evenly on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are tender and caramelized.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your sweet, caramelized roasted carrots as a delightful side dish!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try drizzling a bit of balsamic vinegar over the carrots before roasting. It balances the sweetness beautifully.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to adjust the flavor profile, consider replacing honey with maple syrup for a different natural sweetness. Maple syrup works similarly in roasting, providing a sticky, flavorful coating that caramelizes beautifully. You can also omit the cinnamon entirely for a more straightforward flavor or use a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.

For those looking for a savory twist, try adding garlic cloves or fresh thyme to the carrots before roasting. These additions will complement the earthiness of the carrots without overpowering their natural sweetness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your carrots are not caramelizing as expected, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer. Roasting them at too low a temperature can result in steaming instead of roasting. Always preheat the oven thoroughly to achieve that sought-after texture and flavor.

In case the carrots become overly soft or mushy, it could be due to cutting them too thin. To prevent this, slice the carrots into uniform sizes, aiming for about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and maintain a pleasant crunch.

Storage Tips

After preparing your roasted carrots, it's key to store them properly to extend freshness. Let the carrots cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, preserving their flavor and texture.

If you're interested in freezing leftovers, lay the carrots out on a baking sheet to freeze them individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. This method prevents them from clumping together, allowing you to grab portions easily when you need them.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?

Yes, baby carrots work well too. Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as they tend to cook faster.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a vegan-friendly version.

→ What can I serve with roasted carrots?

Roasted carrots pair well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even as a topping for salads.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.