Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb fresh carrots (peeled and sliced into rounds or batons)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Preparation Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and peel your carrots thoroughly. Slice the carrots diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces to ensure they cook evenly. If you are using baby carrots, you can leave them whole. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy cleanup later.
- Step 2: Seasoning and Glazing In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, olive oil, ground cinnamon, sea salt, and black pepper. Add the sliced carrots to the bowl and toss them vigorously. Make sure every single carrot piece is fully coated in the maple-cinnamon mixture. This coating is what creates those delicious caramelized bits during roasting.
- Step 3: Roasting to Perfection Spread the carrots out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this causes the vegetables to steam rather than roast. Place the tray in the center rack of the oven. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes. At the halfway mark, use a spatula to toss the carrots so they brown evenly on all sides.
- Step 4: Plating Remove the carrots from the oven when they are fork-tender and the edges look slightly charred and bubbly. Transfer the carrots to a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining glaze from the baking sheet over the top. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or an extra pinch of cinnamon if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
- Cook Time: 35 minutes