Sweet Caramelized Carrot Sticks (Printable)
Tender carrot sticks roasted with smoky spices, caramelized for a sweet, savory side or snack.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
→ Oils & Seasonings
02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
03 - 1/2 tsp sea salt
04 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
05 - 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
06 - 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
→ Garnish
07 - 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
# How-To Steps:
01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a large bowl, toss carrot sticks with olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
03 - Spread the seasoned carrots in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
04 - Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until carrots are golden, tender, and crisp on the edges.
05 - Remove from the oven, transfer to a serving platter, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- They're naturally sweet without any added sugar, and the roasting brings that out in the most satisfying way.
- Takes barely 10 minutes of hands-on time, then you can forget about them while the oven does the heavy lifting.
- Works as a side dish, a snack, or even sneaked into lunch boxes without anyone complaining.
02 -
- Don't crowd the pan—if your carrots are piled on top of each other, they'll steam instead of roast, and you'll miss out on those caramelized edges.
- Turning them halfway isn't just a suggestion; it's the secret to even browning and that restaurant-quality finish.
03 -
- If your carrots are really thick, cut them lengthwise first to thin them out—this prevents that situation where the outside is done but the center is still hard.
- A light spray of cooking oil on the baking sheet keeps the parchment from sticking and gives the bottom of the carrots a chance to caramelize properly.