Glazed carrots are a classic side dish that add color, flavor, and elegance to any meal. Tender carrots are simmered in a buttery glaze with brown sugar and honey until perfectly coated and lightly caramelized. The result is a sweet and savory dish that’s versatile enough for both weeknight dinners and festive holiday spreads.
This recipe is quick to prepare with just a handful of pantry staples. In under 30 minutes, you can serve carrots that are tender, glossy, and bursting with flavor. Whether paired with roasted turkey, baked chicken, or vegetarian mains, glazed carrots always add a touch of comfort and charm to the table.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs carrots, peeled and cut into sticks (or use baby carrots)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Boil Carrots
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add carrots and cook for 6–8 minutes until just tender.
- Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in brown sugar, honey, salt, pepper, and cinnamon if using.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes until mixture forms a shiny glaze.
Step 3: Coat the Carrots
- Add cooked carrots to the skillet.
- Toss gently to coat carrots evenly with glaze.
Step 4: Caramelize Slightly
- Continue cooking for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until carrots are glossy and lightly caramelized.
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer to serving dish, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Variations
- Orange Glazed Carrots: Add 2 tablespoons orange juice and zest for citrus brightness.
- Maple Twist: Replace honey with pure maple syrup for deeper flavor.
- Savory Style: Add garlic and fresh thyme instead of cinnamon for a less sweet version.
- Spiced Holiday Carrots: Stir in nutmeg, ginger, or cloves for a warm seasonal touch.
Cooking Notes
- Don’t overcook carrots—keep them tender but not mushy.
- Baby carrots save prep time, but sliced whole carrots deliver a more rustic look.
- Serve immediately for the shiniest glaze; it thickens as it cools.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roasted meats like turkey, ham, or chicken.
- Pair with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic holiday plate.
- Add to vegetarian dinners for a colorful, nutrient-rich side.
💡 Tips
- Roll carrots in glaze until every piece is coated evenly.
- For richer flavor, add a final knob of butter before serving.
- Make ahead: cook carrots and glaze separately, then combine and reheat before serving.
- Double the recipe for large gatherings.
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, 6 servings)
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
❓ FAQs
Q1: Can I roast the carrots instead of boiling?
- Yes, roast at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, then toss with glaze in a skillet.
Q2: Can I make glazed carrots dairy-free?
- Yes, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter.
Q3: How long do glazed carrots last?
- Store in the fridge up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet to refresh the glaze.
Q4: Can I freeze glazed carrots?
- They’re best fresh, but you can freeze and reheat with extra glaze.
Q5: Do I need both honey and brown sugar?
- They balance each other—brown sugar caramelizes, while honey adds shine and depth.
Conclusion
Glazed carrots are an easy yet elegant side dish that combines tender vegetables with a buttery-sweet glaze. With just a few ingredients and under 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that pairs beautifully with both everyday dinners and festive feasts. Bright, flavorful, and versatile, these carrots are sure to become a family favorite.