Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries Recipe

Introduction

Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries is a simple, flavorful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the warm taste of maple syrup and the tartness of dried cranberries. Perfect for holiday meals or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe adds a festive touch to your table.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds of carrots, peeled and sliced into sticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ½ tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the sliced carrots and olive oil. Toss well to ensure all the carrot sticks are evenly coated with the oil.
3. Step 3: Add the maple syrup to the bowl and continue to toss until the carrots are coated.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and ground cinnamon over the carrots. Toss again to distribute the spices evenly.
5. Step 5: Spread the prepared carrots onto the lined baking sheet in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
6. Step 6: Roast in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the carrots are tender and caramelized on the edges.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the dried cranberries over the hot carrots. Toss the mixture gently on the baking sheet.
8. Step 8: Transfer the carrots and cranberries to a serving dish and garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a nuttier flavor, add toasted pecans or walnuts just before serving.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper with the cinnamon.
• Use fresh cranberries instead of dried for a more tart and juicy bite; toss them in with the carrots before roasting.
• To keep carrots uniform in size, cut them into sticks of similar thickness for even cooking.

Storage

Store leftover roasted carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave until warmed through. For best texture, avoid overcooking during reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh carrots for roasting to achieve the right texture and sweetness. Frozen carrots may release extra water and become mushy under high heat.

Is maple syrup necessary, or can I substitute it?

Maple syrup adds a unique sweetness and depth of flavor, but you can substitute honey or agave syrup if needed. Avoid using plain sugar, as it won’t provide the same rich taste.

Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries Recipe

---

★★★★★

4.8 from 96 reviews

• Author: Naomi
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

Description

These Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries offer a deliciously sweet and savory side dish that’s easy to prepare. Roasting the carrots caramelizes their natural sugars, while the addition of pure maple syrup, warm cinnamon, and tart dried cranberries creates a perfect balance of flavors. Garnished with fresh parsley, this recipe makes an elegant and healthy accompaniment for any meal.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 1 ½ pounds of carrots, peeled and sliced into sticks

Seasonings and Oils

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Sweeteners

• 1 ½ tablespoons pure maple syrup

Additions and Garnish

• ½ cup dried cranberries
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley for garnish

---

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy cleanup.
2. Coat Carrots with Oil: In a large bowl, combine the sliced carrots and olive oil. Toss well to ensure all the carrot sticks are evenly coated with the oil, which promotes even roasting and crisp edges.
3. Add Maple Syrup: Add the pure maple syrup to the bowl and continue tossing the carrots so the sweet glaze covers each piece thoroughly, enhancing caramelization.
4. Season Carrots: Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, and ground cinnamon over the carrots. Toss again to distribute these spices uniformly, giving the carrots a warm, balanced flavor.
5. Arrange Carrots: Spread the prepared carrots out evenly on the lined baking sheet in a single layer. This ensures they roast uniformly without steaming.
6. Roast: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring halfway through cooking to promote even browning. Roast until the carrots are tender and caramelized on the edges.
7. Add Cranberries: Remove the roasted carrots from the oven and immediately sprinkle the dried cranberries over the hot carrots. Toss gently on the baking sheet to combine while maintaining the shape and texture of the cranberries.
8. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the carrots and cranberries to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley to add color and a fresh herbal note before serving.

Notes

• For best results, slice carrots uniformly to ensure even cooking.
• You can substitute dried cherries or raisins for cranberries if desired.
• Adjust the amount of cinnamon and maple syrup to taste for a sweeter or spicier profile.
• If you prefer a vegan option, confirm that your maple syrup is pure and unprocessed.
• This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Maple roasted carrots, roasted carrots with cranberries, holiday side dish, roasted vegetables, healthy carrot recipe, sweet roasted carrots