Description

These Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are tender, buttery, and perfectly caramelized with a rich brown sugar glaze. This easy side dish brings elegance and warmth to any meal, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound medium carrots, peeled and cut into uniform pieces
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
¼ cup brown sugar (loosely packed)
½ cup water
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
2 minced garlic cloves (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Carrots: Wash, peel, and cut carrots into evenly sized pieces (about 1.75 inches). Uniform pieces ensure even cooking and caramelization.
Blanch the Carrots: Boil carrots in a pot of water for 4–5 minutes until nearly fork tender. Drain and shake off excess water.
Make the Glaze: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, salt, pepper, and cinnamon until sugar dissolves and glaze becomes smooth.
Add the Carrots: Transfer drained carrots to the glaze. Toss to coat evenly.
Caramelize: Increase heat to medium-high and cook for 2–3 minutes, tossing occasionally until glaze thickens and carrots develop glossy, caramelized edges.
Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while warm and glossy.

Notes

Blanching helps retain the carrots’ color and ensures perfect tenderness. For extra flavor, add garlic during the glaze stage or a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang. Honey or maple syrup can substitute brown sugar for natural sweetness.

Prep Time: 5-10 minutes
Cook Time: 18-25 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop & Caramelization
Cuisine: American / Holiday

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 130
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: brown sugar glazed carrots, glazed carrots, holiday side dish, easy vegetable recipe, buttered carrots