Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots — Sweet, Buttery & Irresistible Side Dish

Adam

Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots — Sweet, Buttery & Irresistible Side Dish

Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are the ultimate blend of sweet and savory — tender carrots coated in a glossy, buttery glaze that melts in your mouth. Whether served at Sunday dinner, Thanksgiving, or an ordinary weekday meal, this recipe adds elegance and warmth to any table. The secret lies in the butter-brown sugar glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it coats each slice, creating a dish that’s both simple and spectacular. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these sweet carrots are proof that comfort food can also be quick and refined.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

🥕 Main Ingredients

2 lb carrots peeled and uniformly sliced

🍯 Glaze Mixture

¼ cup brown sugar packed, dark or light
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp olive oil
¼ tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp salt

Equipment

Large skillet or sauté pan
Medium saucepan (if boiling carrots)
Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Strainer
Knife and cutting board

Method

Step 1 – Prepare the Carrots

Peel the carrots and cut them into even-sized slices, about ¼ inch thick, so they cook evenly. Uniform pieces ensure the perfect tender-but-firm texture.

Step 2 – Boil Until Tender

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the sliced carrots and cook for 6–8 minutes, just until fork-tender. Drain immediately and set aside.

Step 3 – Melt the Butter

In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and 1 teaspoon olive oil over medium heat. The olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning while enhancing the glaze’s shine.

Step 4 – Add Brown Sugar and Spices

Stir in ¼ cup brown sugar, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Mix well until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture forms a glossy glaze (about 1–2 minutes).

Step 5 – Glaze the Carrots

Add the drained carrots to the skillet. Toss gently to coat every piece with the glaze. Cook for 5–7 minutes over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the carrots look shiny and slightly caramelized.

Step 6 – Adjust and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning — add a pinch more salt for balance or a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth. Serve immediately while hot, with a drizzle of the extra glaze from the pan.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months; reheat gently before serving.

Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a small splash of water or butter over low heat until glossy.

🥄 Variations

Honey Glazed Carrots: Replace half the brown sugar with 1 tablespoon honey for a richer flavor.

Maple Cinnamon Carrots: Add 1 tablespoon maple syrup for a touch of autumn sweetness.

Savory Twist: Add a pinch of black pepper or a dash of garlic powder for balance.

Nutty Carrots: Sprinkle toasted pecans or almonds on top for crunch.

Herbed Finish: Add fresh thyme or parsley right before serving for freshness.

Creamy Version: Stir in a tablespoon of cream or Greek yogurt for a velvety texture.

❓ 10 FAQs

1. Can I use baby carrots?
Yes, they work perfectly — just increase the boiling time to 10–12 minutes.

2. Can I roast instead of boil the carrots?
Absolutely. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes, then toss in the glaze.

3. What type of brown sugar is best?
Either dark or light — dark yields a deeper molasses flavor.

4. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat in a skillet before serving to restore shine.

5. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, use 2 tablespoons instead of ¼ cup for a lighter sweetness.

6. How do I prevent the glaze from crystallizing?
Cook over low heat and stir constantly until smooth.

7. Are these good for holiday meals?
Yes — they’re a Thanksgiving and Christmas favorite.

8. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce added salt to a pinch.

9. Can I add herbs?
Fresh parsley or thyme makes a great finishing touch.

10. Do kids like this recipe?
Definitely! It’s naturally sweet and a great way to get kids to eat veggies.

🏁 Conclusion

These Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are a side dish that truly shines. Sweet, buttery, and lightly spiced, they elevate any meal — from everyday dinners to festive celebrations.

Each bite bursts with caramelized flavor and tender texture, perfectly balancing natural sweetness with a hint of salt. Easy to make and always loved, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite for your family table.

Serve them warm, glistening, and full of comfort — a reminder that sometimes the simplest dishes are the most unforgettable.