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Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots – Sweet, Glazed & Perfectly Caramelized

There’s something magical about a simple dish that turns everyday ingredients into something extraordinary — and Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots are the perfect example. With their naturally sweet flavor, tender texture, and glossy caramelized coating, these carrots are a show-stopping side dish that fits any occasion, from weeknight dinners to festive holiday feasts. The secret to their irresistible flavor lies in the combination of olive oil, brown sugar, salt, and pepper — a blend that enhances the carrots’ natural sweetness while giving them a rich, golden glaze. When roasted at high heat, the sugars caramelize beautifully, creating slightly crispy edges and a melt-in-your-mouth interior. These carrots are proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients to make something delicious. Simple, elegant, and bursting with warmth, they pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or even vegetarian mains. Whether served for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday dinner, this recipe delivers every time — beautiful color, incredible aroma, and flavor that’s sweet, earthy, and deeply satisfying.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🥕 Main Ingredients
  • 2 lbs fresh carrots peeled and trimmed
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar light or dark
  • 2 tbsp olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • ½ tsp salt Kosher or sea salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper freshly ground
🌶️ Optional Spices
  • Pinch of cinnamon nutmeg, ginger, or red pepper flakes for added depth or heat
🌿 Optional Garnish
  • Fresh parsley thyme, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for finishing flavor and presentation
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Equipment

  • Before you begin, gather your kitchen essentials:
  • 1 Large baking sheet
  • Parchment paper (optional for easy cleanup)
  • 1 Mixing bowl
  • 1 Spatula or wooden spoon
  • 1 Vegetable peeler
  • 1 Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Peel the carrots and trim the ends. For large carrots, slice them lengthwise into halves or quarters for even roasting.
  3. Pat the carrots dry with a paper towel — moisture prevents caramelization.
💡 Tip: Try to keep your carrot pieces uniform in size to ensure even cooking and consistent browning.
    Step 2: Season and Toss
    1. In a large mixing bowl, combine carrots, olive oil, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
    2. Toss well until the carrots are evenly coated and glistening.
    3. If desired, sprinkle in optional spices like cinnamon or ginger for extra flavor.
    💡 Pro Tip: The olive oil helps the sugar adhere while encouraging that signature roasted crispiness.
      Step 3: Arrange and Roast
      1. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with oil.
      2. Spread the carrots in a single layer, making sure they’re not overlapping.
      3. Roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through for even browning.
      💡 Tip: For extra caramelization, roast on the top rack during the last 5 minutes.
        Step 4: Check for Doneness
        1. The carrots should be tender on the inside and slightly crispy on the outside.
        2. If using larger pieces, you may need an additional 5–10 minutes of roasting time.
        Step 5: Garnish and Serve
        1. Transfer the roasted carrots to a serving platter.
        2. Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh thyme.
        3. For a gourmet touch, drizzle with a bit of balsamic glaze before serving.
        4. Serve warm and watch these glossy, golden carrots disappear in minutes!

        Notes

        🧊 Storage & Reheating
        These brown sugar roasted carrots keep beautifully and taste just as sweet reheated!
        Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
        Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month (texture may soften slightly).
        Reheating:
        Oven: 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes.
        Air Fryer: 350°F (175°C) for 4–5 minutes.
        Microwave: 1 minute for quick reheats.
        💡 Tip: Add a drizzle of olive oil or a touch of honey when reheating to refresh their shine.
        🥄 Variations
        Want to make your roasted carrots extra special? Try one of these delicious twists:
        Maple Glazed Carrots: Replace brown sugar with pure maple syrup for deeper, natural sweetness.
        Garlic Butter Carrots: Add 1 tbsp melted butter and 2 minced garlic cloves before roasting.
        Spiced Holiday Carrots: Mix in ½ tsp cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for festive warmth.
        Zesty Citrus Twist: Drizzle with orange juice and sprinkle orange zest before serving.
        Honey Glazed Carrots: Swap brown sugar for 2 tbsp honey and roast the same way.
        Smoky Paprika Carrots: Add ½ tsp smoked paprika for a rich, earthy flavor.
        Savory Herb Roasted: Toss in thyme, rosemary, or sage for an aromatic side dish.
        Carrot Medley: Mix with parsnips, sweet potatoes, or beets for colorful variety.
        ❓ 10 FAQs
        1. Do I have to peel the carrots?
        No, as long as they’re scrubbed clean, you can roast them with the skins on for extra texture and nutrients.
        2. Can I use baby carrots?
        Yes! Baby carrots roast beautifully — reduce cook time by about 5 minutes.
        3. Why aren’t my carrots caramelizing?
        Make sure the oven is hot enough and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet — space allows the carrots to brown instead of steam.
        4. Can I make these ahead of time?
        Yes, you can roast them up to a day ahead and reheat before serving.
        5. Can I use white or purple carrots?
        Absolutely! They look stunning and add a colorful twist to your table.
        6. Can I skip the sugar?
        Yes, but the brown sugar enhances caramelization — you can reduce it or replace with maple syrup or honey.
        7. Can I make this vegan?
        It already is! No animal products required.
        8. How can I make it spicier?
        Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for gentle heat.
        9. What dishes pair best with roasted carrots?
        They’re amazing with roasted chicken, salmon, quinoa bowls, or holiday roasts.
        10. How can I add a restaurant-style finish?
        Drizzle with balsamic reduction or sprinkle toasted nuts like almonds or pecans before serving.
        🏁 Conclusion
        These Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots are everything a side dish should be — simple, flavorful, and full of soul. The natural sweetness of the carrots shines through, enhanced by the brown sugar’s caramelized glaze and balanced perfectly with a hint of salt and pepper.
        Whether you’re preparing them for a festive holiday meal or a casual weeknight dinner, these carrots bring warmth, color, and joy to every plate. They’re elegant enough for guests yet easy enough for everyday cooking.
        Each golden bite melts in your mouth, reminding you that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most memorable. Sweet, savory, and beautifully roasted — these carrots are sure to become a staple at your table.