Looking for a side dish that combines sweet, savory, and crispy goodness all in one? These Maple-Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Carrots are a perfect choice. This dish takes tender roasted carrots and wraps them in smoky, crispy bacon, finished with a delicious maple glaze. It’s a great side for holiday dinners, potlucks, or even a special weeknight treat. The combination of flavors and textures will leave everyone wanting more—whether they’re veggie lovers or bacon enthusiasts!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Instructions
3. Cook Notes & Tips
4. Recipe Variations
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients

• 12 medium-sized carrots, peeled (try to choose similar sizes)
• 12 slices of bacon
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top if you have one (this helps the bacon crisp up all around).
2. Wrap the Carrots
   • Wrap each carrot tightly with a slice of bacon, starting at one end and working your way to the other. Place the wrapped carrots on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Prepare the Maple Glaze
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Brush and Bake
   • Brush the maple glaze generously over each bacon-wrapped carrot.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the bacon is crispy and caramelized. Halfway through baking, brush the carrots with additional glaze for extra flavor.
5. Serve
   • Once done, remove from the oven and let the carrots cool slightly. Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if desired and serve warm.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Carrot Size: Choose carrots that are similar in size to ensure even cooking. If using thicker carrots, you may need to bake them longer to achieve tenderness.
• Bacon Crispiness: If you prefer your bacon extra crispy, place the bacon-wrapped carrots on a wire rack while baking. This allows the heat to circulate more evenly.
• Extra Glaze: For an extra glossy finish, brush the carrots with the remaining maple glaze right before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the maple glaze for a bit of heat.
• Honey Glaze: Replace the maple syrup with honey for a slightly different flavor profile.
• Herb Butter Finish: Brush the carrots with melted herb butter right before serving for a richer flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots? A: Yes, you can use baby carrots, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them. You may need to use half a slice of bacon per carrot depending on their size.

Q: How do I prevent the bacon from unwrapping during baking? A: To prevent the bacon from unwrapping, you can secure the ends with toothpicks. Just be sure to remove them before serving.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the bacon-wrapped carrots and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Brush with the glaze just before baking.

These Maple-Glazed Bacon-Wrapped Carrots are the perfect combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or simply want to elevate your dinner sides, this recipe is sure to impress. The tender carrots and crispy bacon with that touch of maple sweetness make a delightful pairing that everyone will love. Enjoy this unique twist on a classic side dish and watch as it becomes a staple in your meal rotations!