Autumn Bliss Maple Dijon Roasted Apples and Carrots Recipe – Fall Side Dish Favorite

When the leaves start turning and the air carries that cozy autumn chill, it’s time for a side dish that fits the season perfectly. This Autumn Bliss Maple Dijon Roasted Apples and Carrots Recipe brings together tender carrots and crisp apples, all caramelized under a sweet-maple and tangy-Dijon glaze that makes your kitchen smell like fall. It’s an effortless dish that delivers big flavor with minimal fuss—ideal for weekday dinners, holiday spreads, or simply when you want something comforting and warm. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet family meal, this side dish adds color, flavor, and festive charm in one.

For another fall-friendly salad: Cinnamon-Spiced Apple and Red Grape Salad. Looking for something lighter? Check our Easy Tuna Salad

Add a festive appetizer: Christmas Cranberry Meatballs

Pair with a savoury starter: Christmas Stuffed Mushrooms

What Is / Why It’s Special

This recipe pairs the natural sweetness and texture of apples and carrots with a bold glaze of maple syrup and Dijon mustard. The result? A beautifully caramelized side dish that hits sweet, savory, and slightly tangy notes all at once.

Why it’s special

• The maple Dijon combo adds depth beyond standard roasted veggies.
• Apples give a crisp contrast to soft carrots for texture variety.
• Visually stunning bright orange carrots, golden-brown apples create a fall aesthetic.
• Make ahead friendly: pre-prep, roast when ready.
• Perfect for autumn dinner, holiday side dish, or cozy Sunday meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Produce & Core

• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into 2″ pieces
• 2 firm apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), cored and sliced into wedges
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves or chopped rosemary (optional)

Glaze

• 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for warm fall flavor)
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• Salt & pepper to taste

Optional Crunch & Garnish

• ½ cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts (adds texture, budget-friendly)
• A drizzle of extra maple syrup before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Preheat & Prep

Pre-heat oven to 400 °F (200 °C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment for easy clean-up.

Step 2 – Toss Apples & Carrots with Glaze

In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, cinnamon, nutmeg, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add carrot pieces and apple wedges; toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 3 – Arrange for Even Roasting

Spread the glazed apples and carrots in a single layer on the parchment-lined sheet. Make sure the pieces are not overcrowded, so they roast rather than steam.

Step 4 – Roast until Tender

Roast for about 25-30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until carrots are tender and apples are caramelized with golden edges.

Step 5 – Add Crunch & Serve

Remove from oven, sprinkle the toasted pecans over top for texture, and if desired, drizzle a bit more maple syrup. Serve warm immediately.

Tips / Variations / Why You’ll Love It

⭐ Tips

• Match apple and carrot sizes for even cooking.
• Use parchment lining to avoid sticking.
• Add pecans near end to keep crunch fresh.
• Use olive oil or avocado oil for better caramelization.

⭐ Variations

• Kid-Friendly version: Use honey instead of maple and skip nutmeg.
• Budget version: Use standard apples like Gala and skip pecans (add seeds instead).
• Holiday upgrade: Add pomegranate arils or balsamic glaze.
• Make ahead: Toss veggies with glaze the evening before and roast day of.

⭐ Why You’ll Love It

It’s vibrant, simple, full of fall flavor, and versatile. Whether you’re serving for a fancy dinner or a relaxed evening at home, this side dish impresses without stress.

🌟 Budget-Friendly Autumn Side Dish

When it comes to seasonal cooking, simplicity and cost-effectiveness matter. By choosing everyday apples and carrots and using pantry staples like maple syrup and mustard, this dish keeps your budget happy while appearing gourmet. Skip pricey root vegetables and still get impressive results. For a big gathering, double the recipe carrots and apples roast well in large batches, making it ideal for fall potlucks or holiday dinners.

🌟 Kid-Friendly Cooking Station & Veggie Fun

Get your little helpers involved! Set up a fun “Autumn Roasting Station” where kids toss apple wedges and carrot sticks with the glaze, sprinkle pecans, and help arrange the roasted pieces on the platter. They’ll love seeing their handiwork served on the table. It’s a great way to introduce seasonal veggies in a fun way, and kids are more likely to eat what they helped make.

❓ FAQs

🎁 Conclusion

This Autumn Bliss Maple Dijon Roasted Apples and Carrots Recipe brings together fall’s best flavors in a side dish that’s beautiful, tasty and effortless. From cozy weeknight dinners to holiday spreads, it delivers warmth, color and crowd-pleasing appeal. Try it soon and you’ll see why it becomes a seasonal favourite.