Air Fryer Honey Garlic Carrots (Caramelized & Tender)

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

• 1 lb (450g) baby carrots (or regular carrots cut into thick sticks)

• 1½ tablespoons olive oil

• 1½ tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, adds warmth)

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)

• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness at the end)

🔪 Prep

1. Wash & Dry:
   Rinse carrots and pat completely dry (this helps them roast instead of steam).

2. If using large carrots:
   Peel and cut into even sticks about ½-inch thick so they cook evenly.

🥣 Seasoning Mix

In a large bowl, combine:

• Olive oil

• Honey

• Garlic

• Salt

• Pepper

• Paprika

Whisk until well combined.

Add carrots and toss thoroughly so every piece is coated.

🔥 Air Fryer Instructions

1. Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.

2. Place carrots in the basket in a single layer (slightly overlapping is okay, but avoid overcrowding).

3. Cook for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

4. For extra caramelization, cook an additional 2–3 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

Carrots are done when:

• Tender when pierced with a fork

• Edges are golden and slightly blistered

✨ Optional Finishing Touch

• Toss with 1 tablespoon butter while hot for glossy richness.

• Sprinkle fresh thyme or parsley.

• Add a squeeze of lemon juice if you want brightness.

🍽 Flavor Variations

Savory Version

• Skip honey

• Add ½ tsp cumin + ¼ tsp chili flakes

Sweet Holiday Style

• Add ½ tsp cinnamon

• Sprinkle chopped pecans before serving

Spicy-Sweet

• Add ½–1 tsp sriracha or cayenne

🧊 Storage

• Store in airtight container up to 4 days.

• Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.