Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots (Easy Oven Recipe Inspired by Jamie Oliver)

This recipe is inspired by Jamie Oliver’s simple, flavour-forward cooking style. It is not an official Jamie Oliver recipe.

These maple glazed roasted carrots are sweet, caramelized, and beautifully tender. Roasting carrots with maple syrup in a hot oven intensifies their natural sweetness while creating golden, slightly crispy edges. It’s an easy side dish that feels special enough for a holiday table but simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

If you love roasted carrots with maple syrup, this method keeps things straightforward. A handful of pantry ingredients, one tray, and about 30 minutes is all you need.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs whole carrots, peeled and cut into even sticks
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Optional: 1 teaspoon honey (for extra glaze)
• Optional: splash of balsamic vinegar

Using real maple syrup makes a difference. It caramelizes naturally and creates a glossy glaze as the carrots roast.

How to Make Maple Glazed Roasted Carrots

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and slice the carrots into evenly sized sticks so they cook at the same rate.
3. In a large bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, maple syrup, sea salt, and black pepper.
4. Spread them in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20–30 minutes, tossing halfway through.

The carrots are ready when they are tender inside and beautifully caramelized on the outside, with slightly golden edges.

Best Oven Temperature & Cooking Time

The best temperature for oven roasted maple carrots is 400°F. High heat encourages caramelization while keeping the inside soft and tender.

Most carrots will roast in 20 to 30 minutes, depending on thickness. You’ll know they’re done when a knife slides in easily and the glaze looks sticky and lightly browned.

Tips for Perfect Caramelization

• Do not overcrowd the pan — space allows proper roasting.
• Cut carrots evenly for consistent cooking.
• Roast uncovered for the best glaze.
• Use pure maple syrup for deeper flavour.
• Add fresh thyme at the end for brightness.

These small adjustments help create beautifully caramelized carrots with lightly crispy edges.

Variations

This maple roasted carrots recipe is flexible and easy to customize:

• Honey maple roasted carrots: Add 1 teaspoon honey for extra sweetness.
• Balsamic maple carrots: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for tang.
• Spicy maple carrots: Sprinkle with chili flakes before roasting.
• Garlic & thyme version: Add minced garlic and fresh thyme for savory depth.

Make Ahead & Storage

You can prep the carrots and toss them with maple and olive oil several hours in advance. Store covered in the fridge, then roast just before serving.

Leftover maple glazed carrots keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve caramelized edges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature is best for roasting carrots?

400°F is ideal. It allows carrots to caramelize while becoming tender without drying out.

Can I use baby carrots?

Yes, but whole carrots tend to have better flavor and texture. If using baby carrots, reduce cooking time slightly.

Can I make maple glazed carrots ahead of time?

Yes. You can roast them earlier in the day and reheat gently before serving. They are especially popular as a holiday side dish.

How do you keep roasted carrots from getting soggy?

Make sure the carrots are spread in a single layer and not overcrowded. High oven heat and proper spacing ensure they roast instead of steam.

Are maple roasted carrots healthy?

Yes. Carrots are rich in beta carotene and fiber. This recipe uses minimal oil and natural maple syrup, making it a balanced side dish option.

Maple glazed roasted carrots are one of the easiest ways to transform simple carrots into a sweet, glossy side dish that feels elegant and comforting at the same time.