Maple Glazed Carrots Recipe: Sweet & Savory Side Dish

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As the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving dishes that bring warmth and comfort to the table.

These maple glazed carrots have become a staple in my kitchen, especially during fall dinners or holiday gatherings.

The natural sweetness of carrots pairs beautifully with the rich, caramel-like flavor of maple syrup, creating a side dish that’s both simple and elegant.

I love how this recipe transforms humble carrots into something special with just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort.

It’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with family or friends.

Whether you’re hosting a big Thanksgiving feast or just want to elevate a weeknight dinner, these carrots are sure to impress.

Maple Glazed Carrots Recipe | Elegant & Easy Side for Special Occasions

Why You’ll Love This Maple Glazed Carrots Recipe

This maple glazed carrots recipe is a crowd-pleaser that checks all the boxes: it’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and versatile enough for any occasion.

The combination of sweet maple syrup and savory butter creates a glossy glaze that clings to tender carrots, making every bite irresistible.

It’s a fantastic way to get kids and picky eaters to enjoy their veggies, and it pairs beautifully with everything from roasted meats to vegetarian mains.

Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, so you can whip it up even on busy evenings.

Quick and Easy: Minimal prep and cook time make this perfect for weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavorful: The sweet and savory glaze elevates the natural taste of carrots.
Versatile: Complements a wide range of main dishes, from turkey to tofu.
Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike for its sweet, buttery goodness.
Seasonal Appeal: Perfect for fall and holiday menus, with warm, cozy flavors.

Ingredients For Maple Glazed Carrots

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that let the carrots shine. You likely have most of these in your pantry already, making it a budget-friendly side dish.

2 lbs (900g) carrots, peeled and sliced into ½-inch (1 cm) rounds or sticks
¼ cup (60ml) maple syrup, pure
2 tbsp (30g) butter, unsalted, melted
1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
½ tsp (2.5g) salt
¼ tsp (1g) black pepper
1 tsp (5g) fresh thyme leaves, chopped (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
Optional: 1 tbsp (15g) chopped parsley for garnish

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy tools to make these maple glazed carrots, just a few kitchen basics to get the job done.

Large skillet or sauté pan
Cutting board
Chef’s knife for peeling and slicing carrots
Measuring cups and measuring spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Small bowl for mixing glaze
Tongs for serving

Read Also: Lentil and Vegetable Soup Recipe

Maple Glazed Carrots Recipe | The Perfect Kid-Friendly Vegetable Dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

These steps are designed to be clear and easy to follow, even if you’re new to cooking. The key is to keep an eye on the carrots as they cook to ensure they’re tender but not mushy.

1. Prepare the Carrots

Peel the carrots using a vegetable peeler, then slice them into ½-inch (1 cm) rounds or sticks on a cutting board with a chef’s knife.

Try to keep the pieces uniform so they cook evenly. If your carrots are very thick, you can cut them in half lengthwise before slicing into sticks for faster cooking.

2. Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup (60ml) maple syrup, 2 tbsp (30g) melted butter, 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil, ½ tsp (2.5g) salt, ¼ tsp (1g) black pepper, and 1 tsp (5g) chopped fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried).

Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This glaze is what gives the carrots their signature sweet and savory flavor.

3. Cook the Carrots

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced carrots and about ¼ cup (60ml) of water to the skillet.

Cover and let the carrots steam for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re just starting to soften.

This step helps the carrots cook through without getting too brown before they’re tender.

4. Add the Glaze

Uncover the skillet and pour the glaze mixture over the carrots. Stir gently with a wooden spoon to coat the carrots evenly.

Increase the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes.

The glaze will thicken and start to caramelize, coating the carrots in a shiny, sticky layer.

Keep an eye on the skillet to prevent burning, and reduce the heat if the glaze thickens too quickly.

5. Check for Doneness

Test a carrot piece with a fork—it should be tender but still have a slight bite (al dente).

If the carrots aren’t tender yet, lower the heat to medium and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.

If the glaze gets too thick, add a teaspoon of water to loosen it up.

6. Garnish and Serve

Once the carrots are tender and well-coated, remove the skillet from the heat.

If desired, sprinkle 1 tbsp (15g) of chopped parsley over the carrots for a pop of color and freshness.

Use tongs to transfer the carrots to a serving dish, making sure to drizzle any remaining glaze from the skillet over the top.

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Oven Roasted Maple Glazed Carrots | Sweet, Caramelized & Delicious

Tips for Success

To make sure your maple glazed carrots turn out perfectly every time, keep these pointers in mind.

Choose fresh, firm carrots for the best texture and flavor.
Cut carrots evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
Use pure maple syrup for authentic flavor; avoid pancake syrup.
Don’t skip the steaming step—it helps the carrots cook evenly.
Stir frequently while glazing to prevent the syrup from burning.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving; add a pinch more salt if needed.

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Serving Suggestions

The Best Maple Glazed Carrots Recipe for a Cozy Fall Side Dish

These maple glazed carrots are a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of mains, from hearty roasts to light vegetarian dishes.

Their sweet and savory profile makes them a great addition to both casual and festive meals.

Serve alongside BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches for a comforting weeknight meal.
Pair with Grilled Salmon with Dill Sauce for an elegant dinner.
Complement a vegetarian spread with Chickpea and Spinach Curry.
Add to a holiday table with Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers.
Enjoy with Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry for a balanced, colorful plate.

Read Also: Healthy Shepherds Pie Recipe

Variations to Try

Switch things up with these creative twists on the classic recipe.

Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for a warm, spiced flavor.
Toss in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts during the last 2 minutes of cooking for crunch.
Swap thyme for fresh rosemary for a different herbal note.
Use honey instead of maple syrup for a slightly different sweetness.
Add a splash of orange juice to the glaze for a citrusy kick.

Read Also: Healthy Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Storage and Reheating

These carrots store well, making them great for meal prep or leftovers.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to revive the glaze, about 5 minutes.
Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
Avoid overcooking when reheating to maintain the carrots’ texture.

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Nutritional Facts

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: 120 kcal
Fat: 6g (3g saturated)
Carbohydrates: 18g (12g sugars, 3g fiber)
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 250mg
Vitamin A: 180% DV
Vitamin C: 10% DV

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Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Carrots and maple syrup aren’t just delicious—they’re packed with nutrients that make this dish a wholesome choice.

This recipe is a great way to enjoy a veggie-packed side that feels indulgent but is good for you too.

Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health and immunity.
Maple Syrup: Contains antioxidants and minerals like manganese and zinc.
Butter: Provides healthy fats when used in moderation, aiding nutrient absorption.
Thyme: Offers anti-inflammatory properties and adds flavor without extra calories.
Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat with monounsaturated fatty acids.

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FAQs

1. Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?

Yes, baby carrots work great in this recipe. They’re already peeled and bite-sized, so you can skip the prep step. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may soften faster—check after 4-5 minutes of steaming.

2. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or extra olive oil. Ensure your maple syrup is vegan, as some brands may use non-vegan processing methods.

3. Can I prepare maple glazed carrots ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these a day in advance. Cook as directed, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to refresh the glaze before serving.

4. What can I use instead of maple syrup?

If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or agave nectar are great substitutes. They’ll provide a similar sweetness, though the flavor will be slightly different.

5. Can I roast these carrots instead of cooking them on the stovetop?

Yes, for a roasted version, toss the carrots with the glaze ingredients and spread them on a baking sheet. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway, until tender and caramelized.

Read Also: Vegan Fall Recipes