Introduction

If you’re looking to bring a surprising twist to your fall side dishes, Air Fryer Carrots with Parmesan and Pumpkin Spice Glaze are the perfect solution. This recipe balances the sweetness of a fall-inspired pumpkin spice glaze with the salty, umami flavor of Parmesan cheese, turning simple carrots into a unique and delightful dish. The air fryer ensures the carrots are perfectly roasted and caramelized on the outside, while the inside remains tender.

The combination of Parmesan and pumpkin spice might seem unconventional, but it works beautifully. The warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves complement the natural sweetness of the carrots, while the Parmesan adds a savory depth that keeps the dish from being too sweet. Whether you’re serving these carrots as a holiday side dish or a weeknight treat, they’ll be a standout addition to your fall menu.

Ingredients:

• For the air fryer carrots:
  • 1 lb (450g) carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• For the pumpkin spice glaze:
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
• For garnish:
  • Fresh parsley or thyme (optional)
  • Extra Parmesan for sprinkling (optional)

Preparation:

Step 1: Prep the carrots

Start by prepping the carrots. Peel them and cut them into even-sized sticks or rounds, ensuring uniform thickness for even cooking. If the carrots are small, you can simply halve them lengthwise.

Step 2: Season and air fry the carrots

Toss the carrots in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well-coated. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned carrots in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer). Air fry the carrots for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The carrots should be slightly crisp on the outside and tender inside.

Step 3: Make the pumpkin spice glaze

While the carrots are cooking, prepare the pumpkin spice glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup (or honey), cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, melted butter, apple cider vinegar, and salt. The glaze should be smooth and fragrant with a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.

Step 4: Toss carrots with glaze and Parmesan

Once the carrots are done cooking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the pumpkin spice glaze over the carrots and gently toss to coat them evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the glazed carrots, ensuring that every piece gets a little cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Transfer the glazed and Parmesan-coated carrots to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color, and sprinkle extra Parmesan on top if desired. Serve immediately while the carrots are warm and flavorful.

Cooking Note:

• Air fryer tips: For best results, make sure the carrots are spread out in a single layer in the air fryer. Overcrowding the basket will result in uneven cooking. If necessary, cook the carrots in batches.
• Pumpkin spice variations: If you’re not a fan of pumpkin spice, you can reduce the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to a more subtle level or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
• Parmesan options: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. Pre-grated Parmesan can be used in a pinch, but it won’t melt and coat the carrots as nicely.

Serving Suggestions:

• As a side dish: These air fryer carrots pair wonderfully with roasted meats, chicken, or a vegetarian main course like quinoa-stuffed acorn squash.
• Holiday table: The sweet and savory flavors of this dish make it perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, offering something unique yet familiar.
• Snack or appetizer: Serve these carrots as a fun snack or appetizer at fall gatherings, especially if you’re looking for a healthier alternative to fries or chips.

Tips:

• Prep ahead: You can peel and cut the carrots ahead of time, storing them in a bowl of water in the refrigerator. This makes it easy to throw them in the air fryer when you’re ready to cook.
• Glaze options: For a more savory glaze, try swapping the maple syrup with balsamic vinegar and reducing the amount of pumpkin spice.
• Crunchy finish: For added texture, sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds or crushed pecans over the top of the carrots before serving.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

15-18 minutes

Total Time:

25-30 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 190
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 490mg
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 9g

Conclusion

Air Fryer Carrots with Parmesan and Pumpkin Spice Glaze offer a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them a standout dish on any fall table. The air fryer brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots, while the Parmesan adds a savory bite and the pumpkin spice glaze delivers a warm, cozy sweetness that embodies the essence of autumn.

This recipe is incredibly simple to make, yet feels gourmet thanks to the unexpected pairing of Parmesan and pumpkin spice. Whether you’re making them as a quick weeknight side or adding them to your holiday menu, these carrots are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, using the air fryer makes this dish both quick and healthy, with minimal effort required. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious, fall-inspired flavors!

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