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

Scale

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)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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.