Carrot Fries

Did you know if you call something a “fry” toddlers are 457% more likely to eat it? I made that up, but it really could be true. These easy Carrot Fries are proof. 

Me: “Do you want carrots?”

Toddler: “No, thank you.”

Me: “Carrot fries?”

Toddler: “Okay!”

These “fries” are an easy way to get kids excited about vegetables, and let’s be real, it works for adults, too.  They’re quick to prep, easy to customize, and ready in under 30 minutes. They’re the perfect side dish or quick healthy snack.

If you love carrots, you won’t want to miss these Maple Roasted Carrots or this super moist Vegan Carrot Cake. 

Looking for more delicious vegan snacks? Try these Crispy Polenta Fries, Air Fried Black Beans, Crunchy Baked Chickpeas, or Buffalo Cauliflower Wings. 

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

• Simple ingredients – Carrots, a little oil, and spices. That’s it. You could try homemade taco seasoning, or keep it simple with salt and pepper. The possibilities are endless.
• Multiple cooking methods – Make larger batches in the oven, or smaller batches using the air fryer!
• Toddler approved – Call something a fry and they’ll want it more. Gotta beat them at their own game.

 Ingredients

• Carrots – I like to start with full-sized carrots, but you could also chop baby carrots or buy pre-sliced carrots for this recipe.
• Olive oil – Any oil of your choice works here. Avocado oil or vegetable oil are great options.
• Spices – I stick with smoked paprika and garlic powder usually, but you can definitely add other spices. Onion powder, dried herbs, or even nutritional yeast would be great additions. 
• Optional: Add 1/4 teaspoon salt and/or black pepper

Helpful Equipment

​In addition to measuring cups and spoons, the following equipment is helpful for this recipe:

• Baking sheet or Air fryer
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Large bowl
• Parchment paper

How to Make Carrot Fries

​This is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to make this recipe including photographs. For the quick version, skip ahead to the recipe card below!

Preheat your oven (or air fryer) to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Prep the Carrots

Wash, and peel your carrots. Remove the ends. Chop carrots into fry-like shapes. I like to do this by cutting them in half or into thirds depending on how long they are, and then cutting each section length-wise into quarters. Try to make the sizing somewhat consistent so they will cook evenly.

Mix in the Seasonings

Toss the chopped carrots into a large mixing bowl. Add in your olive oil and spices and stir until all pieces are evenly mixed.

(I’m interrupting this regularly scheduled broadcast to announce that my THREE year old took the picture that you see above! He always wants to “say cheese” to whatever I am working on. This day it was “Say cheese carrots?” and I’m glad I said yes!)

Crispy Baked Carrot Fries

To bake the carrot fries, space the coated carrots in a single layer on a prepared baking tray. Place them in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes. They should be tender and golden brown once finished.

Air Fryer Carrot Fries

If you are making this recipe in the air fryer, you will follow the same steps, but exclude the parchment paper. The cooking time in the air fryer will differ based on your model. I suggest starting at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes, stirring the fries, then checking again every 5 minutes until they are crispy.

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, topped with fresh parsley, or vegan parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

How to Store 

• Fridge: These carrots are crispiest when served right away. Any leftovers will store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Reheat: If you have one, I recommend using the air fryer to reheat these so they keep their crispiness.

More Tips

• Not Vegan? Use melted butter instead of oil, or top with cheese in the last 5 minutes of baking or air frying.
• Want some heat? Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper to the spice mix.