Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots

Name: Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 pound young carrots, peeled; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Elevate your side dish game with these irresistibly sweet and savory Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots. Perfectly cooked young carrots are coated in a luscious mixture of brown sugar and honey, creating a delightful glaze that caramelizes beautifully. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday meals, bringing a colorful and flavorful touch to your dining table.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-25T09:50:38.591Z

This recipe is a family favorite, combining the natural sweetness of young carrots with the rich flavors of brown sugar and honey.

The Perfect Side Dish

Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots are an ideal side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. The sweetness of the glaze complements savory meats such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even glazed ham, adding a warm and inviting element to your meal. Their vibrant color and glossy finish also make them a feast for the eyes, ensuring they stand out on any dining table.

Not only are these carrots delicious, but they are also a healthier alternative to heavier side dishes. With their natural sweetness enhanced by brown sugar and honey, they are sure to please both children and adults alike. These glazed carrots can help introduce more vegetables into a child's diet in a fun and flavorful way.

Customization Options

While this recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors, feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices to make the dish your own. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile, adding warmth and complexity. You can also swap out the honey for maple syrup for a unique twist that brings a different sweetness to the dish.

For a touch of freshness, consider adding citrus zest or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving. This addition will brighten the dish, cutting through the sweetness and creating a more balanced flavor. Additionally, try incorporating other vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for variety on your plate.

Cooking Tips

When preparing the carrots, uniformity is key. Cutting them into equal pieces ensures they cook evenly, preventing some from becoming mushy while others remain undercooked. Selecting young carrots also makes a significant difference as they tend to be sweeter and more tender than their mature counterparts.

Monitor the cooking time carefully when boiling the carrots. You want them tender but still crisp, maintaining a slight bite. If you're uncertain, it's better to undercook them slightly, as they will continue to cook when tossed in the hot glaze. This technique ensures your carrots are perfect every time.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots

1 pound young carrots, peeled
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon honey
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients come together to create an irresistible glaze.

Instructions

Prepare the Carrots

Start by peeling the carrots and cutting them into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking.

Cook the Carrots

In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the carrots for about 5-7 minutes until tender but still crisp.

Make the Glaze

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter, then add the brown sugar and honey. Stir until combined.

Glaze the Carrots

Drain the carrots and add them to the skillet. Toss to coat the carrots evenly with the glaze.

Serve

Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

Enjoy your deliciously glazed carrots!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing, ensure they are fully cooled before sealing to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess. Reheating them is simple; just place them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to help steam them back to their original texture.

For best results, avoid reheating them in the microwave, as this can make the carrots mushy. Instead, using a skillet helps retain their firmness and ensures the glaze remains flavorful and appealing when served again.

Nutritional Benefits

Carrots are a fantastic source of vitamins and nutrients, particularly vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision and immune function. They also contain antioxidants that help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. By preparing them with a glaze of brown sugar and honey, you can enjoy these benefits while treating yourself to a delicious side dish that's not only wholesome but also indulgent.

Additionally, incorporating more vegetables into your meals can improve overall health and increase dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting satiety. This recipe is a delightful way to ensure you and your loved ones experience the myriad benefits of carrots in a tasty format.

Serving Suggestions

To make your dining experience even more special, consider serving these Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots alongside a festive grain like wild rice or quinoa, adding a hearty element to your plate. They also complement well with creamy dishes such as mashed potatoes or cheesy casseroles, balancing the textures and flavors throughout the meal.

For a seasonal twist, serve the carrots at Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner to create a colorful side that not only tastes amazing but also evokes feelings of warmth and celebration. Their sweet glaze and bright orange color make them an instant holiday favorite!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?

Fresh carrots are recommended for the best flavor and texture, but if using frozen, adjust cooking time as needed.