Maple glazed carrot fries have become a regular feature in my kitchen because they’re an easy way to turn humble carrots into something crave-worthy. I love how the natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by the maple syrup, and the edges get just the right amount of caramelization in the oven.

These fries are my go-to when I want a lighter side dish that still feels satisfying. I often serve them alongside roast chicken or as a snack with a tangy yogurt dip. The aroma of roasting carrots and maple is warm and inviting, and the fries come out tender inside with crisp, slightly sticky edges.

What makes this recipe special is how little effort it takes for such a big payoff. The glaze comes together in a minute, and the oven does the rest. It’s a practical way to use up carrots, and the result always disappears fast at my table.

Quick Facts

Why You’ll Love It

If you’re looking for a simple side that’s both family-friendly and a little different, these maple glazed carrot fries fit the bill. They’re easy to prep, use basic ingredients, and offer a satisfying mix of sweet, salty, and savory flavors. The texture is just right—soft inside with caramelized, crisp edges.

• Naturally sweet and savory flavor
• Minimal prep and hands-off cooking
• Great way to use up extra carrots
• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
• Pairs well with many mains
• Vegan and gluten-free

Ingredients

You only need a handful of pantry staples and fresh carrots for this recipe. Maple syrup brings out the carrots’ sweetness, while olive oil helps them roast up nicely. Smoked paprika and black pepper add a subtle depth, but you can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.

• 1 1/2 pounds carrots (about 6-8 medium), peeled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

These carrot fries are straightforward to make. Just cut the carrots into sticks, toss them with the glaze, and roast until the edges are golden and crisp. For best results, spread them out well on the baking sheet and flip halfway through.

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Trim and peel the carrots. Cut them into fries about 1/2-inch thick and 3 to 4 inches long.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
4. Add the carrot fries to the bowl and toss well to coat evenly.
5. Spread the carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t crowded.
6. Roast for 15 minutes, then use a spatula to flip the fries.
7. Continue roasting for another 12-15 minutes, until the edges are deeply golden and the fries are tender.
8. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Chef Tips

A few simple tricks can help you get the best texture and flavor from your carrot fries. Don’t skip the parchment paper, and be sure to cut the fries evenly for consistent cooking. Here are some more tips:

• Cut carrots into uniform sticks for even roasting.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—use two sheets if needed.
• Flip the fries halfway for even caramelization.
• For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
• Garnish with fresh herbs or flaky salt before serving.
• Serve immediately for best texture.

Substitutions

This recipe is flexible, so you can swap out ingredients based on what you have. The maple syrup and olive oil are key, but other options work well too. Here are some easy substitutions:

• Use honey or agave instead of maple syrup.
• Swap olive oil for avocado or canola oil.
• Replace smoked paprika with regular paprika or chili powder.
• Try parsnips or sweet potatoes in place of carrots.
• Add a pinch of cayenne for heat.
• Use dried thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

Storage & Reheating

If you have leftovers, carrot fries store and reheat well. They’re best fresh but can be revived with a quick reheat. Here’s how to keep them tasting their best:

• Cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a 400°F oven for 5-8 minutes to restore crispness.
• Avoid microwaving, as fries may become soggy.
• Freeze for up to 1 month, then reheat from frozen.

Perfect Pairings

These maple glazed carrot fries are versatile and pair well with a variety of mains and sides. I like to serve them with something savory to balance the sweetness. Here are a few ideas:

• Grilled or roast chicken
• Lamb burgers or veggie burgers
• Garlicky yogurt or tahini dip
• A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or dry cider

FAQs

Carrot fries are simple, but a few common questions come up. Here are answers to help you get the best result every time:

Nutritional Note

Each serving is approximately 120 calories, with most coming from the carrots and olive oil. This is an estimate and will vary based on portion size and ingredient brands.