Honey-Glazed Carrots Recipe
If you’re looking for a vegetable side that bursts with natural sweetness and a touch of savory charm, these Honey-Glazed Carrots are exactly the dish to make. The way the butter and honey come together with fragrant rosemary and garlic powder creates a luscious glaze that perfectly coats tender, roasted carrots. This recipe brings out the best in this humble veggie, transforming it into a vibrant, crave-worthy side that brightens any meal with its glossy finish and delicate balance of flavors. Honey-Glazed Carrots are simple to prepare but impressively elegant in taste, making them a favorite on weeknight tables and special occasions alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet crucial, each adding a layer of flavor and texture that makes the Honey-Glazed Carrots shine. From creamy butter to fragrant rosemary, every element prepares the carrots for roasting and glazing perfection.
- Butter: Using 1/4 cup of butter melts into a silky base that helps the honey adhere while adding rich flavor.
- Honey: Just 2 tablespoons add natural sweetness and create that signature glossy glaze.
- Dried rosemary: Half a teaspoon infuses the glaze with an aromatic, woody note that complements the carrots perfectly.
- Garlic powder: A simple 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder brings subtle savory warmth without overpowering the sweetness.
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning, it balances the flavors and enhances the carrots’ natural sweetness.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle hint of spice and complexity to the glaze.
- Carrots: Two pounds of peeled and halved carrots provide the perfect canvas for this delightful glaze.
- Fresh thyme (optional): A sprinkle at the end adds a fresh herbal fragrance and pretty garnish.
How to Make Honey-Glazed Carrots
Step 1: Prepare the Glaze
Start by melting the butter over low heat in a small saucepan. Once melted, stir in honey, rosemary, and garlic powder, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This gentle warming melds the flavors beautifully, creating a fragrant, luscious glaze that will cling to every carrot.
Step 2: Coat the Carrots
Place your peeled and halved carrots on a large baking sheet in a single layer to ensure even roasting. Pour the warm butter-honey glaze over them, then toss gently with a spatula or your hands until every carrot is evenly coated, ensuring that every bite will be bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Roast Until Tender and Glazed
Pop the baking sheet into a 400º oven and roast the carrots for 35 to 40 minutes. The roasting caramelizes the natural sugars of the carrot and honey, giving you those irresistible golden-brown edges and a beautifully sticky coating. Make sure to stir once or twice during cooking to baste the carrots with the glaze as they roast.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once the Honey-Glazed Carrots come out of the oven, sprinkle them with fresh thyme leaves if you like. This adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh woody aroma that elevates the dish further. Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
How to Serve Honey-Glazed Carrots
Garnishes
Fresh thyme is a classic garnish, lending a subtle herbal brightness that balances the sweet glaze. Alternatively, a few chopped toasted pecans or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can add delightful texture and contrast.
Side Dishes
Honey-Glazed Carrots pair beautifully with roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef, as their natural sweetness complements savory mains perfectly. They also work well alongside grains like quinoa or wild rice for a wholesome vegetarian meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider arranging these carrots on a platter with a drizzle of extra glaze and a scattering of fresh herbs for an inviting centerpiece. For a casual touch, pile them in a rustic bowl. You can even toss the roasted carrots into a warm salad with kale, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette for a creative twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Honey-Glazed Carrots, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 4 days, making them a convenient and delicious make-ahead side.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your carrots, allow them to cool completely first. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll maintain the best texture for up to 2 months when frozen. Keep in mind that freezing may slightly soften their roasted texture upon reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the carrots into a 350º oven for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly crisp again. You can also gently heat them on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra butter if needed to keep the glaze smooth and shiny.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried rosemary?
Absolutely! Fresh rosemary brings a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Use about one teaspoon of finely chopped fresh rosemary in place of dried and add it to the glaze at the same time.
What type of carrots work best for this recipe?
Firm, young carrots that are similar in size roast most evenly. Baby carrots can work too, but adjusting roasting time might be necessary because they’re smaller and cook faster.
Is it possible to make Honey-Glazed Carrots vegan?
Yes! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan margarine or coconut oil, and you’ll still achieve a wonderfully rich glaze with the honey. For a fully vegan option, replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Can I add other spices or flavors to the glaze?
Definitely! A pinch of cinnamon or ground ginger adds warmth, while a little lemon zest can brighten the glaze. Feel free to experiment to suit your personal taste.
How do I prevent the carrots from sticking to the baking sheet?
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat before adding the glazed carrots. This not only prevents sticking but also helps with easier cleanup.
Final Thoughts
Honey-Glazed Carrots are the perfect side dish to lift any meal with their gorgeous color, silky texture, and delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors. Whether you’re serving family on a busy weeknight or impressing guests at a holiday feast, this simple recipe brings warmth and joy to every plate. So next time you want a vegetable that feels a little special, give Honey-Glazed Carrots a try—you might just find yourself making them again and again!
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Honey-Glazed Carrots Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Sweet and savory honey-glazed carrots roasted to perfection with a buttery honey glaze infused with rosemary and garlic powder. This easy side dish offers a caramelized finish and makes a delightful addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Glaze Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Vegetables
- 15 carrots (about 2 pounds), peeled and halved lengthwise
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh thyme sprigs
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Glaze: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter completely. Stir in the honey, dried rosemary, and garlic powder, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix until well combined and smooth.
- Coat Carrots: Arrange the peeled and halved carrots evenly on a large baking sheet. Pour the warm honey-butter glaze over the carrots and toss them thoroughly so that each piece is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Roast Carrots: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the carrots for 35 to 40 minutes. Roast until they are tender and well caramelized with a shiny honey glaze. Check occasionally to ensure even roasting and to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the glazed carrots from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Optionally, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving to add a fragrant herbal note and a pop of color.
Notes
- Use fresh carrots for the best texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a stronger rosemary taste, increase the dried rosemary to 1 teaspoon or substitute with fresh rosemary sprigs.
- These carrots can be prepared in advance and reheated gently in the oven before serving.
- For a vegan option, substitute butter with a plant-based margarine or olive oil.
- Keep an eye on the carrots during roasting to avoid overcooking which can make them mushy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (about 140g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: honey glazed carrots, roasted carrots, easy side dish, carrot recipes, honey butter carrots
