Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
These carrots are simmered until tender, then coated in a buttery brown sugar glaze that makes them caramelized, shiny, and full of flavor. They make the perfect side dish for weeknight meals, holiday dinners, or alongside roasted meats.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings:4
Ingredients
500g (1 lb) carrots, peeled and sliced into sticks or rounds
3 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp cinnamon or nutmeg
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook carrots:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Add carrots and cook 6–8 minutes until just tender. Drain well.
Make the glaze:
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Stir in brown sugar, salt, pepper, and optional spice until melted and bubbly.
Glaze carrots:
Add carrots to the skillet. Toss to coat and cook for 4–5 minutes until the glaze thickens and carrots are glossy.
Serve:
Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm.
Notes & Tips
Use baby carrots for a quick shortcut (no chopping needed).
Add a squeeze of orange juice for a citrusy twist.
For a savory-sweet balance, sprinkle with a little sea salt before serving.
Can be made ahead—just reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I roast the carrots instead?
Yes—roast at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes, then toss with the butter-sugar glaze in the skillet.
Q: Can I make them less sweet?
Simply reduce the brown sugar to 1–2 tbsp, or swap half for honey or maple syrup.
Q: Do they work well for meal prep?
Yes—they reheat beautifully and stay glossy for 3–4 days in the fridge.
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~140 kcal
Carbs: 19g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 3g