Name: Sweet Honey Roasted Carrots Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound carrots (about 1 large or 2 medium bunches, cut into 2-inch barrels); 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil; 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup; ½ teaspoon sea salt; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

When you’re looking for a simple yet delightful way to elevate your veggies, this Sweet Honey Roasted Carrots Recipe is an absolute winner. Tender, caramelized carrots kissed with honey and fresh parsley—this side dish will quickly become your kitchen go-to.

On a white plate with a thin brown rim, there are about twenty pieces of roasted carrot slices, each piece showing a bright orange color with some darker browned edges showing they are cooked. The carrot pieces are cut in thick strips with a slightly rough texture from cooking, sprinkled lightly with small green parsley flakes and black pepper. Near the bottom right of the plate, a silver spoon with a wooden handle is holding a few pieces of the roasted carrot slices. Beneath the plate, a white and navy striped cloth is partially visible, and the overall setting is on a white marbled surface, adding a clean and bright contrast to the warm colors of the carrots. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Sweet Honey Roasted Carrots Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Sweet Honey Roasted Carrots Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Sweet Honey Roasted Carrots Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Honestly, I never thought carrots could taste this good roasted with just a hint of honey. It’s a simple method that brings out a naturally sweet, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with almost any main dish.

Super easy: Requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal hands-on time.
All natural sweetness: Honey enhances the carrots’ natural sugars without overpowering them.
Healthy and wholesome: This side is packed with nutrients and only lightly seasoned for clean flavor.
Versatile garnish: Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbal finish that really elevates the dish.

Ingredients & Why They Work

These ingredients are straightforward to find and work harmoniously to create the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors. Choosing fresh, firm carrots is key for this recipe to roast evenly and turn out tender yet slightly caramelized.

Flat lay of fresh whole unpeeled orange carrots, a small white bowl with golden extra-virgin olive oil, a small white bowl with amber honey, a small white bowl of coarse sea salt crystals, a small white bowl with freshly ground black pepper, and a small bunch of bright green chopped fresh parsley, all arranged in perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Carrots: Fresh and firm carrots are essential for even roasting and that buttery, tender texture.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps the carrots caramelize beautifully in the oven.
Honey or maple syrup: Just a touch to bring out the sweet, natural flavor of the carrots.
Sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall depth of flavor.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
Chopped fresh parsley: A generous sprinkle on top adds freshness and a pop of color.

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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

The beauty of this Sweet Honey Roasted Carrots Recipe is how easy it is to customize to your taste and mood. Whether you want to amp up the sweetness, add some warmth with spices, or brighten it with citrus, there’s room to make this simple side dish truly your own.

Smoky Spice Twist: I’ve loved adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika before roasting—it gives the carrots a subtle smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the honey’s sweetness.
Citrus Brightness: A quick squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving really lifts the flavors and adds a fresh zing that’s perfect for spring and summer meals.
Maple Syrup Swap: If you want a richer, earthier sweetness, try swapping the honey for pure maple syrup. It creates a lovely caramelization that’s equally delicious.
Herb Variations: While fresh parsley is classic, feel free to experiment with fresh thyme or rosemary for a woodsy, aromatic note.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Sweet Honey Roasted Carrots Recipe

A clear glass bowl filled with bright orange carrot pieces that are cut into medium-sized chunks, some pieces showing light ridges and a smooth texture. Two woman's hands hold the bowl and wooden spoon, mixing the carrots. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface with a small round dish of coarse salt, a bottle of olive oil, a glass jug of honey with a spoon, and a wooden pepper grinder arranged around it. A blue and white striped cloth is partially visible under the bowl. The lighting is soft and natural, highlighting the vibrant colors and details of the carrots. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit—this high heat is key to getting those carrots tender on the inside and nicely caramelized on the outside. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step saves cleanup time and keeps the carrots from sticking or burning.

Step 2: Toss Those Carrots

Grab a large bowl and add your 1 pound of carrots, cut into 2-inch barrel shapes for even cooking. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil and 1 teaspoon of honey (or maple syrup if you prefer). Season with ½ teaspoon sea salt and a few grinds of freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything well until each carrot piece is beautifully coated—this ensures every bite has that lovely balance of savory and sweet.

Step 3: Spread and Roast

Transfer your carrots to the prepared baking sheet, making sure to spread them out in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly and get that perfect caramelization. Pop the pan into the oven and roast for 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end—the carrots should be fork-tender and lightly browned but not mushy. If your carrots are smaller or cut thinner, they might cook faster, so adjust timing as needed.

Step 4: Season and Garnish

Once the carrots are roasted to perfection, take them out and give them a quick taste. Add a pinch more salt or pepper if you feel they need it. Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor that brightens the whole dish. Serve warm and enjoy that wonderful balance of sweet, savory, and fresh!

Top Tip

These tips will help you nail the perfect balance of tender and caramelized in your Sweet Honey Roasted Carrots Recipe every time.

Uniform Cutting: Cutting your carrots into evenly sized 2-inch barrels ensures they roast evenly, so no piece is undercooked or overly soft.
Honey Application: Toss the carrots with honey before roasting rather than after—it helps the natural sugars caramelize beautifully for that sweet, glossy finish.
Use High Heat: Roasting at 425°F creates a nice caramelization without making the carrots mushy. Keep a close eye near the 25-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
Don’t Overcrowd: Spread the carrots in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding traps moisture and prevents that lovely roasted texture.

How to Serve Sweet Honey Roasted Carrots Recipe

The image shows one layer of roasted carrot pieces scattered unevenly on a white marbled textured surface. Each carrot piece is orange with some pieces having a slightly darker, caramelized texture and small blackened spots from roasting. A thin coating of oil gives them a slight shine, and roasted brown marks from the cooking process are visible beneath and around the carrot pieces. The carrots vary in size and shape, some flat and some curved, arranged in no particular order. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley is classic and adds a lovely pop of color and freshness. For a bit more flair, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, chopped toasted walnuts, or a zest of lemon to brighten the flavors.

Side Dishes

These sweet, tender carrots pair perfectly with roasted chicken or turkey, grilled fish, or a holiday ham. Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes, quinoa salads, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Sweet Honey Roasted Carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days without losing their tender texture and sweetness.

Freezing

While freezing roasted carrots isn't ideal because of texture changes, you can freeze them if needed. Place cooled carrots in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to bring back some crisp edges. You can also warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, but oven reheating helps preserve their best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of carrots for this recipe?

Absolutely! Orange carrots are classic, but you can use purple or rainbow carrots for added color and flavor. Just be sure to cut them uniformly into 2-inch barrels for even roasting.

What if I don’t have honey? Can I substitute?

Yes! Maple syrup works beautifully as a natural sweetener and adds its own unique flavor. You can also try agave nectar or a splash of brown sugar dissolved in a bit of water.

How do I know when the carrots are done roasting?

The carrots should be fork-tender and lightly browned on the edges. Depending on your carrot size, roasting should take about 25 minutes at 425°F. Check at 20 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Can I add extra spices or herbs?

Definitely! Adding smoked paprika gives a lovely smoky depth, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors wonderfully. Fresh thyme or rosemary are also great options.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Honey Roasted Carrots Recipe is a simple little side that’s so much more than the sum of its parts—naturally sweet carrots, a touch of honey, and a quick roast come together to create a dish that effortlessly complements any meal. It’s healthy, easy, and always leaves everyone asking for seconds. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do!