Glazed Carrots

Sweet, tender baby carrots coated in a buttery brown sugar glaze—what’s not to love? As the sugar simmers, it melts into the butter, creating a rich, glossy sauce that clings to the carrots, elevating them from a simple side dish to something special. Whether you’re serving glazed carrots alongside a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, they’ll bring a touch of elegance and irresistible flavor to any meal.

Ingredients for Glazed Carrots

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• Baby carrots: The carrots provide the dish’s natural sweetness and tender texture after cooking. You can use fresh, frozen or canned whole baby carrots.
• Butter: Rich butter adds creaminess and helps the glaze cling to the carrots.
• Brown sugar: Brown sugar melts into the butter, creating a sweet, caramel-like glaze that coats the carrots beautifully.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the carrots

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Place the carrots in a medium saucepan with enough water to just cover them. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer until the carrots are tender, 10 to 12 minutes. Drain the water, and set the carrots aside.

Step 2: Prepare the glaze

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In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and cook until the sugar fully dissolves and forms a smooth glaze, three to five minutes.

Step 3: Add the carrots

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Add the cooked carrots back to the saucepan and toss them in the glaze until they’re evenly coated. Heat for an additional two to three minutes, until the carrots are warmed through. Serve immediately.

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Glazed Carrot Variations

• Add a hint of citrus: Stir a tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice or orange juice into the glaze for a bright, tangy flavor.
• Sprinkle in some herbs: Toss the glazed carrots with freshly chopped parsley, thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
• Incorporate spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg or ground ginger to the brown sugar mixture to give the dish a warm, spiced aroma.
• Include a touch of heat: Stir in a small amount of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a sweet-and-spicy balance.
• Make it maple: Swap out the brown sugar for pure maple syrup to create a deeper, more complex sweetness.
• Add crunch: Sprinkle toasted nuts, such as pecans or slivered almonds, over the glazed carrots just before serving for added texture and flavor.
• Glaze with honey: Replace the brown sugar with honey for a lighter, floral sweetness that pairs well with the butter.

How to Store Glazed Carrots

To store glazed baby carrots, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to three days.

Can you freeze glazed carrots?

Yes, you can freeze glazed carrots, but it’s best to slightly undercook them before freezing to preserve their texture. Let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can you make this glazed baby carrots recipe ahead of time?

Yes, glazed carrots can be made in advance. Cook and glaze the carrots as directed, then let them cool and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve them, reheat them gently in a saucepan or microwave.

How do you reheat glazed carrots?

To reheat glazed carrots, place them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until they’re heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each to ensure even heating.

Glazed Carrot Tips

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What can I serve with glazed carrots?

Glazed carrots pair wonderfully with roast chicken, turkey or pork. They also complement vegetarian dishes such as lentil loaf or rice bowls, adding a touch of sweetness and color to the plate.

Can I make this glazed carrots recipe with regular-size carrots?

Absolutely! If you’re using regular carrots, simply peel and cut them into uniform pieces before cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re tender.

Should I use salted or unsalted butter for the glaze?

Unsalted is best because you can control the seasoning. Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to adjust any additional salt to avoid the dish being too salty. The salted butter can add an extra layer of richness to the glaze.

How do I prevent the carrots from becoming too soft?

To prevent overly soft carrots, keep a close eye on them while cooking, and test for doneness early. You want them to be tender but still hold their shape, which usually takes 10 to 12 minutes when simmering.