Nothing completes a holiday spread or weeknight dinner quite like these Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots. With just five simple ingredients, you can transform ordinary carrots into a sweet, buttery, and slightly caramelized side dish that everyone will love. This dish is perfect for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or anytime you want to add a touch of comfort to your table.

A Classic Side Dish with Sweet History

Glazed carrots have been a favorite in kitchens for generations, with their roots in traditional European cooking where root vegetables were often sweetened to balance hearty meals. The addition of brown sugar brings a rich, molasses-like depth of flavor, while butter adds silkiness. Together, they turn humble carrots into a dish that’s both rustic and elegant.

Why Brown Sugar Works So Well in This Recipe

Brown sugar isn’t just for desserts—it works wonders in savory dishes too. Its natural caramel notes pair beautifully with the earthy sweetness of carrots. When combined with butter, the sugar melts into a glossy glaze that clings to every slice. You can also enhance the flavor with optional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or add a splash of orange juice for brightness. This flexibility makes glazed carrots an easy side dish that suits both casual dinners and festive feasts.

The Perfect Sweet and Savory Side

These carrots are more than just a side—they’re a crowd-pleaser. Kids love their sweetness, while adults appreciate their balance of flavors. They pair beautifully with roasted chicken, turkey, ham, or even vegetarian mains. Best of all, they’re quick to make in just 20 minutes, which means you can whip them up last minute and still impress your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• Optional: pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg
• Optional: 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots

Peel and slice the carrots into ¼-inch thick rounds. Cook them in boiling water for 5–7 minutes, or until tender. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. If you’d like, stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, or orange juice for extra flavor.

Step 3: Coat the Carrots

Add the cooked carrots to the skillet. Toss them gently until they’re fully coated in the glaze. Let them cook for 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the carrots.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy warm. These sweet and savory glazed carrots are ready to brighten up any meal!

Recipe Timing

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 180
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Sodium: 290 mg
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 14 g

Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots

Q1: Can I use baby carrots instead of sliced carrots?

Yes! Baby carrots work perfectly and save time since you don’t need to peel or slice. Just adjust the cooking time, as baby carrots may take a few minutes longer to soften.

Q2: Can I make glazed carrots ahead of time?

Absolutely. Cook and glaze the carrots, then store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or microwave until warm, adding a splash of water if needed.

Q3: Can I make these carrots healthier?

For a lighter version, reduce the butter to 2 tablespoons and substitute honey or maple syrup for the brown sugar. You’ll still get a deliciously glazed carrot dish with a natural sweetness.

Q4: What main dishes pair best with glazed carrots?

These carrots pair beautifully with roasted turkey, ham, pork tenderloin, baked chicken, or vegetarian mains like stuffed squash or lentil loaf.

Q5: Can I freeze glazed carrots?

Yes, though the texture may soften slightly after thawing. Freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove for best results.