If you’re looking for a vibrant, sweet-savory side that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish marries naturally sweet, tender carrots with the bright tartness of dried cranberries and the rich, subtle warmth of cinnamon and pure maple syrup. Roasting brings out the carrots’ deep caramel notes while the cranberries add a burst of color and flavor, making it a show-stopping side any time of year, especially during holiday feasts or simple weeknight dinners that deserve a little extra love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple but each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of taste and texture in this recipe. From sweet maple syrup to aromatic cinnamon, everything is designed to enhance the natural flavors while adding a touch of festive cheer.
- Carrots (1 1/2 pounds): Peeled and cut into sticks or coins for even roasting and a tender bite.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Provides the perfect base for roasting and helps caramelize the carrots beautifully.
- Pure maple syrup (2 tablespoons): Adds natural sweetness and a glossy finish that’s absolutely irresistible.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Introduces a warm spice that elevates the dish without overpowering it.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick and complexity.
- Dried cranberries (1/2 cup): Bring tart brightness and a chewy contrast to the roasted carrots.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, optional): A pop of fresh green color and a mild herbaceous note when garnishing.
How to Make Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Carrots
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This setup ensures your carrots roast evenly without sticking, setting the stage for perfectly caramelized edges and tender centers.
Step 2: Toss the Carrots with Flavors
In a large bowl, combine the peeled and cut carrots with olive oil, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything well until the carrots are coated evenly, which is key to unlocking those sweet, spiced caramelized notes once roasted.
Step 3: Roast the Carrots
Spread the carrots out in a single layer on your parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping once halfway through. This flipping helps every side get nicely browned and tender, creating that delicious texture contrast that makes roasted carrots so addictive.
Step 4: Add the Cranberries
When your carrots have about five minutes left in the oven, sprinkle the dried cranberries on top. The residual heat will warm them just enough to release their lovely tartness while keeping their chewiness intact, perfectly balancing the dish.
Step 5: Final Touch and Serve
Once roasted, transfer your vibrant carrots and cranberries to a serving dish. If you like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an inviting pop of color and a fresh herbal lift. Serve warm to enjoy the full range of flavors and textures.
How to Serve Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice, bringing bright green color and a clean, mild flavor. For some extra crunch, toasted pecans or walnuts can be sprinkled on top, enhancing both texture and taste with a nutty twist.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats like turkey or chicken, adding a naturally sweet and tart contrast. It also complements grain bowls or a hearty quinoa salad, making it versatile enough for any mealtime scenario.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these carrots atop a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside a smear of herbed goat cheese for a rustic-yet-elevated presentation. For a festive flair, sprinkle pomegranate seeds or a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making your second helping just as delightful as the first.
Freezing
This Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries Recipe freezes well. Place cooled carrots and cranberries in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw gently in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 12 minutes to warm through and revive some of the crisp roasted edges. Microwaving is a quicker option but may soften the texture more.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries are much more tart and have a higher moisture content, so they would need to be cooked longer or softened separately. The dried cranberries provide that perfect chewy burst without excess moisture that could affect roasting.
Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan, using no animal products, making it a perfect side dish for plant-based eaters without compromising on flavor.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, chopped pecans or walnuts add wonderful crunch and a nutty depth that pairs amazingly with the sweet and tart elements of the dish. Toast them lightly before adding for best flavor.
How do I adjust the sweetness?
You can tweak the maple syrup amount to your taste. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce it to 1 tablespoon, or increase slightly for a glossier, sweeter finish.
What other spices work well with this dish?
In addition to cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger can add warm complexity. For a savory twist, a hint of smoked paprika or a splash of balsamic vinegar amps up the flavor in a delicious way.
Final Thoughts
This Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries Recipe is a heartfelt celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Its vibrant flavors and cozy aroma will brighten any table and warm any heart. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try and watch it become your go-to favorite side dish for every season.
Print
Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries is a delicious and festive side dish featuring tender carrots glazed with pure maple syrup, cinnamon, and a hint of black pepper. Roasted to caramelized perfection and topped with sweet dried cranberries, this vibrant dish is perfect for holiday meals or any weeknight dinner. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and easy to prepare, offering a wonderful balance of natural sweetness and savory spice.
Ingredients
Carrots and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 pounds carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or coins
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings and Garnish
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Toss Carrots: In a large bowl, combine the peeled and cut carrots with olive oil, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until all the carrot pieces are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Arrange Carrots: Spread the coated carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space for even roasting.
- Roast Carrots: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Flip the carrots once halfway through the cooking time to ensure they become tender and develop a slight caramelization on all sides.
- Add Cranberries: About 5 minutes before the carrots finish roasting, sprinkle the dried cranberries evenly over the top so they warm gently without burning.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the carrots from the oven once tender and caramelized. Transfer to a serving dish, and if desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunchy texture.
- For a savory variation, drizzle a splash of balsamic vinegar over the carrots before roasting.
- This dish works wonderfully as a festive holiday side or a flavorful, healthy weeknight vegetable option.
