Glazed Carrots
Glazed Carrots are a sweet and colorful side dish that brings a bright touch to any meal. Tender carrots coated in a shiny, sugary glaze make them taste fresh and…
Tip: save now, cook later.Glazed Carrots are a sweet and colorful side dish that brings a bright touch to any meal. Tender carrots coated in a shiny, sugary glaze make them taste fresh and slightly caramelized, with just the right amount of softness and snap in every bite.
I love making glazed carrots because they’re super simple but feel a little special. The glaze usually has a mix of brown sugar or honey, butter, and a pinch of salt, which makes the carrots taste naturally sweet without being overpowering. I often add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of cinnamon to give it a little extra flavor twist.
My favorite way to serve glazed carrots is alongside a roast chicken or a holiday dinner. They add such a nice pop of color and sweetness to the plate. Plus, they’re a great way to get everyone, especially kids, to eat their veggies happily. This recipe always reminds me of cozy family dinners where the simple, warm flavors bring everyone together at the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby carrots: These are ideal because they cook quickly and look pretty on the plate. If you only have large carrots, peel and cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Butter: Butter adds a rich, creamy touch to the glaze. You can swap it with olive oil or vegan butter if you want a dairy-free option.
Brown sugar: This sweetens and helps create that shiny glaze. Honey or maple syrup are great natural substitutes and add extra flavor.
Thyme: Fresh thyme brightens the dish with a gentle herbal flavor. If you don’t have thyme, rosemary or parsley can also work well.
How Do You Get the Perfect, Shiny Glaze on Carrots?
The key is cooking the carrots just until tender, then letting the glaze reduce and thicken on medium heat. Here’s how:
- Simmer carrots covered to let them soften while absorbing flavors.
- Uncover and cook a bit longer, stirring constantly so the glaze thickens and coats every carrot.
- This step makes the sugar caramelize lightly without burning, giving a shiny, sticky finish.
Remember to keep an eye on the pan and stir often so your glaze stays smooth and the carrots don’t stick. This way, you get that perfect glossy look and sweet flavor in every bite.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking carrots evenly and reducing the glaze without crowding.
- Spoon or spatula – helps you stir the glaze gently to coat the carrots well.
- Measuring spoons – to get your butter, sugar, and spices just right.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for trimming or cutting carrots if needed.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spice notes, especially nice in fall or holiday meals.
- Stir in a splash of orange juice or zest for a bright citrus twist that complements the sweetness.
- Mix in chopped fresh parsley or dill at the end for a fresh herbal contrast.
- Try swapping thyme with rosemary or tarragon for a different herbal flavor vibe.
How to Make Glazed Carrots?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Glazed Carrots:
- 1 lb baby carrots (or peeled whole carrots, cut into uniform pieces)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper (optional)
- ½ cup water or low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
- 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy side dish. You’ll simmer the carrots until tender, then reduce the glaze to a perfect shine. In about 20 minutes, your sweet, buttery glazed carrots will be ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Garlic and Butter (Optional):
Start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat. If you like garlic, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until you can smell its wonderful aroma.
2. Add Carrots and Seasonings:
Next, add the baby carrots to the skillet along with salt, pepper, and thyme. Toss everything together so the carrots get coated with the butter and spices evenly.
3. Add Brown Sugar and Liquid:
Sprinkle the brown sugar over the carrots, then pour in the water or vegetable broth. This will help soften the carrots and create the glaze.
4. Cook Covered Until Tender:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pan. Let the carrots simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. They’re done when tender and the liquid has mostly evaporated.
5. Thicken and Caramelize the Glaze:
Remove the lid and cook for another 2-3 minutes to reduce the liquid further. Stir constantly to coat the carrots and caramelize the glaze, giving it a beautiful shiny finish.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and sprinkle with some fresh thyme leaves if you want a fresh herbal pop. Serve warm and enjoy your sweet, buttery side dish.
Can I Use Frozen Carrots for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water first. This helps prevent the glaze from becoming too watery and ensures even cooking.
How Can I Store Leftover Glazed Carrots?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if the glaze has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the glazed carrots a day ahead. Simply reheat them over low heat, stirring occasionally to restore the glaze’s shine and warmth.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, honey or maple syrup make great substitutes. Just add them in the same quantity to achieve that sweet, caramelized glaze.