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Flavorful Maple Bourbon Roasted Carrots with Creamy Goat Cheese

maple bourbon roasted carrots - featured image

A simple yet special side dish featuring roasted carrots glazed with a sweet maple bourbon sauce and topped with creamy goat cheese, perfect for easy weeknight meals or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds (700 grams) carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or chunks
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon (e.g., Maker’s Mark)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 ounces (115 grams) creamy goat cheese, crumbled
  • Optional garnish: fresh parsley or chives

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Peel and cut carrots into uniform sticks about 3–4 inches long and ½ inch thick.
  3. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine maple syrup, bourbon, olive oil, and minced garlic. Warm gently for 3–4 minutes without boiling to meld flavors.
  4. Transfer carrots to a mixing bowl, pour warm glaze over them, and toss to coat evenly. Add thyme and season with salt and pepper.
  5. Spread carrots in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet, avoiding crowding.
  6. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until tender with caramelized edges.
  7. Remove from oven and immediately crumble goat cheese over hot carrots.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Warm the glaze gently to meld flavors without boiling. Flip carrots halfway through roasting for even caramelization. If carrots seem dry, brush with extra olive oil or glaze. Goat cheese adds creamy tang; can substitute with vegan cheese for dairy-free option. Bourbon can be replaced with brandy, apple cider, or vanilla extract.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted carrots, maple bourbon glaze, goat cheese, easy side dish, fall recipe, holiday side, vegetarian, gluten-free