Brown Sugar Butter Glazed Carrots are a classic side dish that adds the perfect touch of sweetness and shine to any meal. Tender carrots are simmered until perfectly cooked, then tossed in a glossy glaze made from butter and brown sugar a simple yet irresistible combination that transforms everyday vegetables into something special.
This dish is ideal for family dinners, holiday spreads, or even busy weeknights when you want something quick, colorful, and full of flavor. The buttery caramelized glaze enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots while a touch of salt keeps each bite perfectly balanced.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs carrots, peeled and cut into ½-inch thick slices
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prepare the carrots
Peel and slice the carrots into ½-inch thick rounds for even cooking. For a more elegant presentation, you can also cut them into thin diagonal slices or use baby carrots, adjusting the cook time slightly.
Step 2: Cook until tender
Place the sliced carrots in a medium saucepan and add just enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for 6–8 minutes until the carrots are fork-tender but not mushy. Drain well and set aside.
Step 3: Make the glaze
In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and salt, cooking for 2–3 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture forms a glossy, bubbling glaze. The scent of caramelized butter and sugar will fill your kitchen that’s when you know it’s ready.
Step 4: Add the carrots
Add the cooked carrots back into the pan with the glaze. Toss well until all the pieces are coated evenly and the glaze begins to cling to the carrots. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the glaze thicken slightly and soak into the carrots.
Step 5: Garnish and serve
Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving bowl, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a burst of color, and serve warm. They pair beautifully with roasted meats, poultry, or other traditional holiday dishes.
Expert Tips for Success
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Use fresh carrots: Fresh, firm carrots give the best texture and flavor. Avoid older carrots that might turn mushy when cooked.
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Don’t overcook: Simmer the carrots just until tender overcooked carrots can break apart or become overly soft once glazed.
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Balance sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the brown sugar to 3 tablespoons or add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavor.
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Make-ahead option: You can cook the carrots and prepare the glaze separately, then reheat together right before serving.
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Add depth with spices: A pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger adds a subtle warmth that pairs perfectly with brown sugar.
Tasty Variations to Try
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Honey Butter Carrots: Replace the brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of honey for a lighter, floral sweetness.
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Maple Glazed Carrots: Substitute maple syrup for brown sugar to create a deep, rich maple flavor perfect for fall and holiday meals.
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Savory twist: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of balsamic vinegar to balance the sweetness with tang.
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Spiced version: Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a sweet-and-spicy side dish.
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Nutty finish: Garnish with toasted pecans or almonds for crunch and added flavor.
Serving Ideas
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Pair with roast chicken, turkey for a comforting family meal.
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Add to a holiday table alongside mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
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Serve with grilled salmon or seared steak for a sweet-savory vegetable contrast.
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Enjoy as a colorful side for weeknight dinners they’re quick, kid-friendly, and always crowd-pleasing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use baby carrots?
Yes! Baby carrots work great for this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly they may take 1–2 minutes longer to become tender depending on their thickness.
Can I make this in advance?
Definitely. Cook and glaze the carrots up to a day ahead, then reheat gently in a skillet over low heat before serving. Add a splash of water or butter to refresh the glaze.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store cooled carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but you may want to reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe. Salted butter gives a lovely savory contrast to the sweetness.
Can I roast instead of boil the carrots?
Absolutely! Toss sliced carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes. Once tender, toss the roasted carrots in the butter-brown sugar glaze on the stovetop for a deeper caramelized flavor.
Brown Sugar Butter Glazed Carrots
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Tender sliced carrots simmered until soft, then coated in a warm, caramelized glaze made from butter and brown sugar. Simple, elegant, and full of flavor ideal for weeknight dinners or festive holidays.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs carrots, peeled and sliced into ½-inch rounds
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Peel and slice carrots evenly. For decorative presentation, cut diagonally or use baby carrots.
- Place carrots in a saucepan with just enough water to cover. Bring to boil, then simmer 6–8 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
- In same pan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and salt. Cook 2–3 minutes until sugar dissolves and forms glossy glaze.
- Add carrots back to pan. Toss to coat in glaze and cook 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until shiny and caramelized.
- Transfer to serving bowl, sprinkle with parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
Use fresh carrots for best flavor and texture.
Do not overcook; simmer just until tender.
Adjust sweetness by reducing sugar or adding lemon juice.
Make ahead by preparing carrots and glaze separately; reheat before serving.
Add warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra comfort.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 175
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: glazed carrots, brown sugar carrots, buttery side dish, holiday vegetables, glazed vegetable recipe, caramelized carrots
