Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots are not just any side dish; they transform ordinary vegetables into a flavorful centerpiece. This delightful dish features the natural sweetness of carrots paired with the earthy tones of Brussels sprouts, all enveloped in a rich, caramelized maple glaze. The result? A beautiful contrast of crispy edges with tender interiors that you can enjoy during any meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, let’s dive into how to make this satisfying recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots

There are countless reasons to love this Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots recipe. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The combination of sweet maple syrup and savory spices creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that appeals to all palates. You’ll also appreciate that this dish is a healthy carrot side dish, packed with nutrients and fiber. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests at any gathering, particularly with the inclusion of crispy roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts. Lastly, it fits perfectly into a vegetarian diet, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious offering!

Ingredients for Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots

Gather these items:

1.5 lbs fresh Brussels sprouts
1.5 lbs carrots, medium
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (2 tbsp for initial toss, 2 tbsp for glaze)
0.5 tsp kosher salt
0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper
0.25 cup pure maple syrup (dark robust)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp onion powder
0.5 tsp smoked paprika
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or thyme (optional)
0.25 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional)
Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prep Vegetables: Wash and thoroughly dry Brussels sprouts and carrots. Trim and halve Brussels sprouts. Peel carrots and cut into uniform ¼-½ inch pieces (rounds or sticks).
Step 2: Season Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss prepped Brussels sprouts and carrots with 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, ½ tsp kosher salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper.
Step 3: Make Maple Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup pure maple syrup, 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, and ½ tsp smoked paprika until emulsified.
Step 4: Glaze Vegetables: Pour two-thirds of the maple glaze over the seasoned vegetables and toss to coat. Reserve the remaining one-third.
Step 5: Preheat Oven & Prepare Sheets: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line 1-2 large rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring vegetables can be spread in a single layer without overcrowding.
Step 6: First Roast: Spread glazed vegetables on baking sheets, with Brussels sprouts cut-side down. Roast for 15 minutes.
Step 7: Second Roast: Remove, flip vegetables, then continue roasting for 10-15 minutes until tender-crisp and browned.
Step 8: Final Glaze & Roast: Remove from oven. Drizzle with reserved glaze and toss. Return to oven for a final 5-10 minutes until deeply caramelized and crispy.
Step 9: Serve: Transfer to a platter, taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with optional fresh herbs, toasted nuts, or red pepper flakes. Serve hot immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots

Keep these in mind:

Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup, depending on your preference.
For added texture, consider experimenting with different nuts for topping based on your preferences.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; they make a fantastic addition to salads!
Using a high-quality maple syrup enhances the overall flavor of this dish significantly.

Best Ways to Serve Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots

These Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots can steal the show at any meal. Serve them alongside your favorite protein for a balanced dinner, or mix them into a quinoa salad for a refreshing lunch option. They pair beautifully with roasted meats and are a must-have for holiday gatherings, especially as Maple Carrots for Thanksgiving. Consider adding a sprinkle of feta cheese for a savory twist!

Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots: A Sweet Side Delight - Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots

To store your leftover Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots, simply place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for about 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps retain their crispiness!

Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots

What’s the secret to perfect Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots?

The secret lies in roasting them at a high temperature to achieve that crispy texture while keeping the insides tender. Be sure to space them out on the baking tray for even cooking!

Can I make Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the vegetables and glaze ahead of time, but for the best texture, it’s ideal to roast them just before serving. This way, they will be fresh and crispy.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots?

Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Make sure the carrots and Brussels sprouts are in a single layer for optimal crispiness.

Variations of Crispy Maple Glazed Carrots You Can Try

Feel free to mix and match ingredients to suit your taste! You can use different root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne or swap the maple syrup for honey in a Honey Maple Glazed Carrots version. You can also make these Vegan Maple Glazed Carrots by ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Saying Good page, or explore everything you need to know about cooking. If you’re interested in healthy eating, visit our healthy recipes section for more ideas!