Sweet & Savory Maple Dijon Roasted Apples and Carrots

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I’ve always had a soft spot for roasted vegetables, but the moment I added apples into the mix, everything changed. This Sweet & Savory Maple Dijon Roasted Apples and Carrots recipe brings out the best of both worlds—earthy, tender carrots meet sweet, slightly tart apples, all wrapped in a glossy, tangy maple-Dijon glaze. It’s a side dish that doesn’t just accompany a meal—it steals the show.

Whether I’m preparing a holiday spread or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe always finds its way onto the table. It’s easy, it’s vibrant, and the balance of sweet and savory flavors is simply irresistible. If you’re looking for something that feels comforting yet a little elevated, this is it.

Why You’ll Love This Sweet & Savory Maple Dijon Roasted Apples and Carrots Recipe

This dish is the perfect blend of hearty and fresh. The carrots roast to caramelized perfection, while the apples soften just enough to become juicy without falling apart. The maple syrup and Dijon mustard create a glaze that’s both comforting and bold, with just the right amount of tang. Fresh thyme ties everything together with an herby touch.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe is a reliable go-to. It’s naturally gluten-free, vegetarian, and easily adaptable for vegan diets. It also looks beautiful on any plate, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

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What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

I recommend using firm, sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala. These varieties hold their shape well during roasting and balance beautifully with the savory Dijon and sweet maple glaze. Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious—they’ll break down too much and become mushy.

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Options for Substitutions

• Carrots: You can use baby carrots or slice whole carrots into sticks. Rainbow carrots also add visual flair.
• Apples: Swap in pears for a softer, more floral flavor.
• Maple Syrup: Honey or agave syrup can work as alternatives, depending on your dietary needs.
• Dijon Mustard: A coarse grain mustard will add texture, while yellow mustard will give a milder tang.
• Fresh Thyme: Substitute with rosemary or sage for a deeper, woodsy note.

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Ingredients for this Sweet & Savory Maple Dijon Roasted Apples and Carrots Recipe

• Carrots: The hearty base of this dish. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and gives them a satisfying bite.
• Apples: Adds a juicy, slightly tart sweetness that pairs perfectly with the glaze and softens beautifully in the oven.
• Maple Syrup: Provides rich, deep sweetness and caramelization when roasted.
• Dijon Mustard: Gives the dish a tangy kick and balances the sweetness of the maple.
• Olive Oil: Helps the glaze coat the vegetables and promotes even roasting.
• Fresh Thyme: Lends an earthy, aromatic note that complements both the sweet and savory flavors.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of all the ingredients.

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Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven ensures the carrots and apples caramelize properly without turning soggy.

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Step 2: Prepare the Carrots and Apples

Peel the carrots and slice them diagonally into 2-inch pieces. Core and slice the apples into wedges (no need to peel unless you prefer it that way). Uniform sizes help everything roast evenly.

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Step 3: Make the Maple Dijon Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. This glaze should be smooth and well combined, with a shiny consistency.

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Step 4: Toss Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, toss the carrots and apples with the maple Dijon glaze until they’re thoroughly coated. Make sure every piece is well covered for the best flavor.

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Step 5: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Spread the coated carrots and apples in a single layer on a large parchment-lined baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, so use two sheets if necessary.

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Step 6: Roast to Perfection

Roast in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Flip the pieces halfway through to ensure even caramelization. The carrots should be fork-tender, and the apples lightly golden with crisp edges.

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Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh thyme before serving. Serve warm as a side dish, or let it cool slightly and add it to a salad or grain bowl.

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How Long to Prepare the Sweet & Savory Maple Dijon Roasted Apples and Carrots Recipe

Prep Time: Most of your time here will go into peeling and slicing the carrots and apples, which takes about 10–15 minutes. Making the glaze is quick and only takes a couple of minutes more.

Cook Time: Once everything is prepped, the roasting process takes about 25–30 minutes at 400°F. Flipping the veggies halfway through ensures even caramelization and perfect texture.

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Tips for Perfect Sweet & Savory Maple Dijon Roasted Apples and Carrots

• Cut carrots and apples into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t skip flipping the pieces halfway through roasting—this helps avoid burning on one side.
• Line your baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup and better caramelization.
• Use fresh thyme at the end rather than roasting it with the veggies—it keeps the flavor vibrant.
• Taste before serving and add a pinch more salt if needed—it sharpens the sweetness.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the pan: This traps steam and prevents the caramelization you want.
• Using mealy apples: They’ll turn mushy and won’t hold their shape well.
• Skipping the glaze mix: Pouring ingredients directly on the pan can lead to uneven coating.
• Under-seasoning: The glaze is flavorful, but salt and pepper are essential to round out the taste.
• Roasting too long: Apples can break down if roasted beyond the suggested time.

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What to Serve With Sweet & Savory Maple Dijon Roasted Apples and Carrots?

1. Herb-Roasted Chicken

The sweet and tangy flavors pair beautifully with a juicy, savory roast chicken.

2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

A creamy, buttery side adds a nice contrast to the roasted texture.

3. Quinoa or Farro Bowl

Use the carrots and apples as a warm topping over grains for a vegetarian main.

4. Pork Chops or Pork Tenderloin

Pork and apples are a classic match—this dish elevates the combo.

5. Warm Couscous Salad

Add the roasted veggies to a couscous salad with feta and greens for a vibrant side.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerating: Let the roasted carrots and apples cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave in short bursts, but the texture is better preserved with oven reheating.

Freezing: Not recommended, as the apples may become watery and lose their structure after thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~160
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 16g
• Sodium: 170mg
• Cholesterol: 0mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of apples hold up best when roasted?

Firm varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji are ideal—they keep their shape and don’t turn to mush.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can roast the dish up to a day ahead and reheat in the oven before serving.

Is this dish suitable for vegans?

Yes, just make sure your Dijon mustard doesn’t contain honey.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely, just be sure to use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.

How do I keep the apples from browning before roasting?

Toss the apple slices in a little lemon juice if you’re prepping ahead to slow down oxidation.

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Conclusion

Sweet & Savory Maple Dijon Roasted Apples and Carrots is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of flavor and texture. The roasted carrots bring heartiness, the apples add a juicy contrast, and the maple-Dijon glaze pulls everything together in perfect harmony. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or an easy weeknight dinner, this dish brings warmth and depth to any table. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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