Vibrant, caramelized carrot sticks with maple and sea salt
These roasted carrot sticks are the ultimate holiday side dish - vibrant, flavorful, and ready in 25 minutes. The maple glaze adds natural sweetness while the sea salt balances it perfectly.
Whether you're hosting a Christmas dinner or a festive gathering, these carrots add a pop of color and festive flavor. Their tender-crisp texture and caramelized edges make them a crowd-pleaser for both vegetarians and carnivores.
With just three main ingredients and one sheet pan, this recipe is ideal for holiday hosting when you need a reliable side that's easy to prepare and stunning to serve.
The maple glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a glossy finish that's both festive and delicious. The sea salt adds a subtle crunch and enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots.
Perfect for pairing with beef tenderloin, prime rib, or a hearty vegetarian main course, these roasted carrots are a must-have for your holiday table.
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Quick Preparation
Ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for last-minute holiday prep. No complicated techniques or special equipment required.
💰 Minimal Ingredients
Only three main ingredients needed: carrots, olive oil, and maple syrup. The sea salt is optional but enhances the flavor significantly.
👥 Versatile Pairing
These carrots complement both meat-based and vegetarian main courses. Their vibrant orange color makes them visually appealing on any holiday platter.
🌟 Festive Presentation
The glossy maple glaze and caramelized edges create a visually stunning side dish that adds a festive touch to your holiday table.
Simple Roasted Carrot Sticks
Vibrant holiday side with maple glaze
🛒 Ingredients
- - 2 lbs carrots (about 8-10 medium carrots), peeled and cut into 2-inch sticks
- - 3 tbsp olive oil
- - 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- - 1 tsp sea salt
- - Pinch of black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
Prep Carrots: Wash and peel carrots. Cut into 2-inch sticks for even roasting. Place on a large baking sheet.
💡 Tip: Use a mandoline for uniform slices, but hand-cutting works too.
Season: Drizzle olive oil over carrots, then sprinkle with sea salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
💡 Tip: For extra flavor, add 1/2 tsp smoked paprika.
Roast: Spread carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes.
💡 Tip: Rotate the pan halfway for even browning.
Glaze: Remove from oven and drizzle with maple syrup. Toss to coat, then return to oven for 5 minutes until glossy and caramelized.
💡 Tip: For a thicker glaze, mix 1 tbsp maple syrup with 1 tsp olive oil before drizzling.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Carrots
Choose firm, bright orange carrots for best results. Baby carrots work too, but adjust roasting time by 5-7 minutes.
Substitute: Sweet potatoes or parsnips for a different flavor profile.
Olive Oil
Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. It helps the maple glaze adhere to the carrots.
Substitute: Avocado oil or melted butter.
Maple Syrup
Pure maple syrup adds natural sweetness and creates a beautiful glaze. Avoid pancake syrup for best results.
Substitute: Honey or brown sugar dissolved in a little water.
Sea Salt
Coarse sea salt adds texture and enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots. You can also use kosher salt.
Substitute: Fine table salt, using 3/4 tsp instead of 1 tsp.
Pro Tips for Perfect Carrot Sticks
🍁 Flavor Enhancement
Add 1/2 tsp smoked paprika or 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon to the seasoning mix for extra depth.
🔥 Cooking Technique
Use a wire rack on the baking sheet for even caramelization and crispier edges.
🧂 Seasoning Tips
Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy kick that complements the sweetness.
📸 Presentation
Arrange the finished carrots in a single layer on a wooden board for optimal visual appeal.
Variations & Customizations
Spiced Carrots
Add 1/2 tsp ground cumin and 1/4 tsp turmeric for a warm, earthy flavor profile.
Citrus Zest
Mix in the zest of 1 orange with the maple syrup for a bright, refreshing twist.
Herb Infusion
Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary over the carrots during roasting for aromatic flavor.
Sweet & Savory
Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped pistachios for a festive holiday presentation.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Beef tenderloin with herb crust - The richness of the beef pairs perfectly with the sweet carrots
- Herb-roasted potatoes - Complementary textures and colors
- Grilled salmon - Adds protein balance to a vegetarian meal
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a spiced red such as Pinot Noir. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling apple cider complements the sweetness.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the carrots up to 24 hours in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Refrigerator Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Best when reheated to restore crispiness.
Freezer Storage
Freeze cooked carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and slightly crisp again.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: How to prevent burning?
A: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking and keep an eye on the last 5 minutes. If browning too quickly, reduce oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
Q: Can I use frozen carrots?
A: Yes, but thaw completely first and pat dry. Frozen carrots will need an additional 5-7 minutes roasting time.
Q: How to make them crispier?
A: Use a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow air circulation. You can also preheat the rack for 5 minutes before adding the carrots.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but use two baking sheets to maintain even cooking. Avoid overcrowding which can lead to steaming instead of roasting.
Final Thoughts
These simple roasted carrot sticks are a game-changer for holiday meals. Their vibrant color and festive presentation make them a standout side dish that's both beautiful and delicious.
With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is perfect for both experienced cooks and beginners. The maple glaze adds a touch of sweetness that complements both meat and vegetarian dishes equally well.
