Easy Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots: The Perfect Sweet & Tender Side Dish
Discover how to create truly irresistible brown sugar glazed carrots, a side dish so beloved it earns a spot on every table, from holiday feasts to simple weeknight dinners. With a mere four essential ingredients and a total preparation time of around 20 minutes, you’ll transform humble carrots into a culinary delight. These delicately crisp yet wonderfully tender carrots are simmered to perfection in a luscious, sweet, and buttery glaze, promising to be a crowd-pleaser every time.
Why This Glazed Carrots Recipe Is a Must-Try
Glazed carrots hold a special place as a traditional side dish for major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter dinner. However, their incredible versatility means they effortlessly complement a wide array of main courses throughout the entire year. What makes this recipe truly outstanding is its simplicity – it requires only a handful of ingredients, many of which you likely already have stocked in your pantry and refrigerator.
You might also know these delectable vegetables as candied carrots or, more specifically, brown sugar-glazed carrots. Regardless of the name, the outcome is always the same: perfectly tender carrots with a satisfying hint of crispness, beautifully caramelized after being gently simmered in a rich mixture of brown sugar and butter. We’ve explored numerous ways to prepare carrots – from classic roasted carrots and bacon-wrapped air fryer carrots to savory slow cooker balsamic carrots. Yet, time and again, these classic glazed carrots emerge as the undisputed favorite. They offer that perfect balance of a sweet, indulgent treat with the wholesome goodness of a vegetable, making them an ideal accompaniment to any dinner.
This recipe isn’t just easy; it’s foolproof. The process involves steaming the carrots first to achieve that ideal tender-crisp texture, then introducing the brown sugar and butter to create a silky, irresistible glaze. This method ensures the carrots absorb the sweet flavors without becoming mushy, while the glaze thickens beautifully to coat each piece evenly. The natural sweetness of the carrots is amplified by the brown sugar, and the butter adds a luxurious richness that ties all the flavors together. It’s a side dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need an impressive yet simple dish for entertaining.
Related Recipe – Brown Sugar Substitute
Key Ingredients for Sweet Glazed Carrots
To whip up this delightful side dish, you’ll need just a few staple ingredients. For precise measurements, a full list of ingredients, and comprehensive instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card available at the end of this post.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
Let’s dive deeper into the ingredients and how you can adapt them to your preferences or what you have on hand, ensuring your glazed carrots are always a success.
CARROTS – For this recipe, we opted for 2 lbs of fresh carrots, peeled and sliced diagonally to a thickness of 1⁄4”–1⁄2”. This diagonal cut offers a lovely presentation and a good surface area for the glaze. However, if you’re looking to minimize prep time, feel free to use baby carrots instead. The specific cut of your carrots isn’t as crucial as ensuring they are uniform in size. Uniformity is key to even cooking, preventing some pieces from becoming mushy while others remain too firm. If you choose to cut your carrots into larger pieces than recommended, simply extend the simmering time in water slightly, keeping a close eye on them until they begin to soften to your desired tenderness. You might need to add a little more water to the skillet if you’re simmering for an extended period.
BROWN SUGAR – Brown sugar is paramount for that classic rich, molasses-infused sweetness and beautiful caramelization in our glazed carrots. Its moist texture also contributes to a smoother glaze. If you prefer or need a substitute, you can swap brown sugar for equal parts honey or maple syrup. Both alternatives will lend a wonderful sweetness and slightly different flavor profiles; honey will offer a more floral note, while maple syrup provides an earthy, robust sweetness. Keep in mind that these liquid sweeteners might result in a slightly thinner glaze, but the flavor will still be fantastic.
BUTTER – Unsalted butter is recommended as it gives you control over the overall saltiness of the dish. Butter is crucial for creating the rich, velvety texture of the glaze and adding a depth of flavor that complements the sweet carrots and brown sugar beautifully. If you only have salted butter, simply omit or reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to prevent it from becoming too salty.
WATER – Water is used in the initial cooking phase to gently steam and soften the carrots before the glaze is introduced. This pre-cooking step ensures the carrots are tender all the way through without being overcooked once the sugar and butter are added. It helps achieve that perfect “tender-crisp” consistency. The water will mostly evaporate, leaving the carrots ready to absorb the sweet glaze.
SALT AND PEPPER – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the carrots and balancing the sweetness of the glaze. A pinch of salt brings out the best in vegetables, while freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and complexity. Season to taste, adjusting based on your preference and whether you used salted or unsalted butter.
OPTIONAL GARNISH – Finely chopped fresh parsley not only adds a pop of vibrant green color but also provides a fresh, herbaceous contrast that brightens the entire dish. Other garnishes like a sprinkle of toasted pecans or a hint of orange zest can also add extra texture and flavor dimension.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Glazed Carrots
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are provided to help you visualize each stage of making this delicious recipe. For a complete printable version, including all precise measurements and instructions, scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of this post. You can also Jump to Recipe now.
- Begin by preparing your carrots. Place the peeled and sliced carrots along with ½ cup of water into a large skillet. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat until the water comes to a rolling boil. At this stage, sprinkle the carrots generously with salt and pepper to season them early. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until all the water has completely evaporated from the skillet and the carrots have started to soften. This initial simmering step is crucial for achieving that tender-crisp texture before the glaze is added. Make sure the water is fully gone before moving to the next step to allow proper caramelization.
- Once the water has evaporated and the carrots are tender, add the butter and brown sugar directly into the skillet with the carrots. Stir continuously, allowing the butter to melt and the brown sugar to fully dissolve into it. This will create the base of your rich, sweet glaze. Ensure there are no clumps of brown sugar and that it’s fully incorporated into the melted butter.
- Continue to cook the carrots in the glaze for approximately 5 minutes longer. During this time, the carrots will become wonderfully fork-tender, and the rich brown sugar and butter mixture will reduce down to form a thick, glossy glaze that evenly coats each carrot piece. The glaze should be bubbling gently and clinging to the carrots, signifying it has reached the perfect consistency.
- Once the carrots are perfectly glazed and tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. For a beautiful finish and a hint of freshness, garnish your brown sugar glazed carrots with finely chopped fresh parsley just before serving. Enjoy this delightful side dish hot!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Glazed Carrots
Storing leftover brown sugar glazed carrots is simple. Allow them to cool completely to room temperature first. Then, transfer them into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh and delicious for about 5-6 days. Properly sealing them prevents them from drying out and absorbing other odors in the fridge.
There are a few easy ways to reheat glazed carrots while maintaining their flavor and texture. The quickest method is to microwave them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until they are thoroughly heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat on the stovetop. If the carrots seem a little dry or the glaze has solidified, you can always add a small amount of butter to the pan to help re-create the luscious sauce. If you feel they’ve lost some of their sweetness, a dash of honey or a tiny sprinkle of brown sugar can be added to the skillet while reheating to bring back that delightful candied flavor.
Absolutely! Glazed carrots are an excellent make-ahead side dish, especially useful for holiday meal prep. You can prepare them completely up to 1-2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and then reheat using one of the methods mentioned above just before serving. They taste just as good, if not better, the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.
While regular carrots, peeled and sliced diagonally, offer the best texture and flavor absorption, baby carrots are a convenient alternative if you’re short on time. For a gourmet touch, consider using heirloom carrots of various colors for a visually stunning dish. The key is to ensure uniform sizing for even cooking.
If you prefer a thicker glaze, you can cook it for an extra minute or two, stirring constantly, after adding the butter and brown sugar. The longer it cooks, the more it will reduce and thicken. If you find your glaze too thick, or if it solidifies slightly upon cooling, you can thin it out by adding a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth while reheating, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency.
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan. Simply substitute the unsalted butter with a high-quality plant-based butter alternative. Most vegan butter brands perform exceptionally well in this recipe, yielding a similarly rich and delicious glaze.
Perfect Pairings & Serving Suggestions
These glorious brown sugar glazed carrots are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a wide variety of main courses. Their delightful sweet and savory profile makes them a welcome addition to virtually any meal, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a grand holiday gathering.
For a classic combination, serve them alongside roasted chicken, a succulent pork loin, or a festive holiday ham. The sweetness of the carrots provides a wonderful contrast to the savory richness of these meats. They also complement beef dishes exceptionally well, such as a hearty pot roast or tender prime rib. During the holidays, these glazed carrots are a natural fit for your Thanksgiving turkey or Christmas spread, adding a touch of vibrant color and a burst of flavor that even picky eaters will adore.
Beyond traditional holiday meals, consider pairing them with everyday favorites like meatloaf, pan-seared fish, or even a vegetarian quiche. The hint of sweetness they bring can elevate a simple meal, making it feel more special. For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary, or a tiny grating of orange zest to complement the natural sweetness of the carrots and brown sugar.
More Irresistible Side Dish Recipes
Looking to round out your meal with more delicious and easy-to-make sides? Here are some fantastic recipes that complement these glazed carrots perfectly:
- Perfectly Roasted Asparagus
- Creamy Broccoli Casserole
- Classic Baked Mac and Cheese
- Cheesy Bacon Chive Twice Baked Potatoes
- Crispy Roast Potatoes with Rosemary
- Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts
- Zesty Lemon Herb Couscous
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Glazed Carrots
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 2 lbs carrots peeled and sliced diagonally to 1⁄4”-1⁄2” thickness
- ½ cup water
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup light brown sugar packed
- salt and pepper to taste
- finely chopped parsley optional as garnish
Things You’ll Need
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Large skillet
Before You Begin
- I used about 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper and 1⁄2 teaspoon salt while cooking the carrots and then garnished with another sprinkle of each. Be careful not to add too much salt, particularly if you use salted butter instead of the unsalted butter. Always taste and adjust seasoning to your preference.
- We like our glazed carrots tender-crisp, meaning they have a soft bite but still retain a slight firmness. If you prefer very soft carrots, add a little more water to the skillet during the initial simmering phase and cook them longer until your desired softness is achieved. Remember to drain any excess water thoroughly before proceeding to add the butter and brown sugar for the glaze.
- Store any leftover brown sugar glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 5-6 days, making them an excellent option for meal prepping or enjoying throughout the week.
Instructions
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Place the prepared carrots and ½ cup of water into a large skillet. Heat over medium-high heat until the water comes to a boil. Once boiling, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook, stirring frequently, until all the water has completely evaporated from the skillet and the carrots have softened to a tender-crisp consistency.
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Add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and ¼ cup of light brown sugar to the skillet with the softened carrots. Stir continuously, allowing the butter to fully melt and the brown sugar to completely dissolve into the butter, creating a smooth, rich glaze.
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Continue to cook for approximately 5 minutes longer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. During this time, the carrots will become wonderfully fork-tender, and the sauce will reduce and thicken into a luscious, glossy glaze that beautifully coats each carrot piece.
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Remove the skillet from the heat. Taste the glazed carrots and season further with additional salt and pepper if desired. Garnish generously with finely chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness before serving immediately.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.