Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots recipe is the perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavor, making it an irresistible side dish for any meal. The carrots are tender and coated in a luscious glaze made from brown sugar and honey, creating a caramelized finish that’s both rich and comforting. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or a special holiday gathering, these glazed carrots will be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

• 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces

• 2 tablespoon unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoon brown sugar

• 2 tablespoon honey

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by preparing the carrots. Peel and cut them into 1-inch pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.

3. Once the butter has melted, add the brown sugar and honey. Stir until the mixture starts to bubble and thicken.

4. Add the carrots to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the glaze.

5. Season with salt, pepper, and cinnamon (if using). Continue to cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender and the glaze has thickened into a syrupy consistency.

6. Once the carrots are cooked through and glazed, remove from heat and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add herbs: Try incorporating fresh thyme or rosemary for an herbal twist to the glaze.

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give the carrots a little heat.

• Nuts: For added texture, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the finished carrots.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the carrots in a skillet over low heat with a tablespoon of butter, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use baby carrots for this recipe?

Yes, baby carrots work perfectly for this recipe! Just slice them into rounds for even cooking.

2. Can I make the glazed carrots ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

3. Can I substitute the brown sugar with something else?

You can use white sugar or maple syrup as alternatives, but the flavor might differ slightly.

4. How can I make the carrots softer?

For extra tender carrots, you can blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes before adding them to the glaze.

5. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter if preferred.

6. How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

Be sure to cook on medium heat and stir frequently to prevent the glaze from burning.

7. Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?

Fresh carrots are preferred for the best texture, but if using frozen, make sure they are thawed and drained before cooking.

8. Can I double the recipe for a large crowd?

Yes, you can double or even triple the recipe. Just make sure you have a large enough skillet to accommodate the carrots.

9. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, roasted sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even butternut squash can be great additions to this dish.

10. Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

To make it vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and ensure the honey is replaced with maple syrup or agave nectar.

Conclusion

These Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots are a sweet and savory side dish that's easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking time, they are a great way to elevate your dinner table. Whether you're serving them at a family meal or a special holiday feast, they are sure to become a favorite!