Easy Glazed Carrots (Sweet, Buttery & Family-Friendly)

These Easy Glazed Carrots are a classic side dish that brings natural sweetness and vibrant color to any meal. Tender, buttery, and coated in a glossy brown sugar glaze, these carrots are perfect for holiday tables, weeknight dinners, or anytime you want a vegetable that feels a little extra special.

This recipe comes together in under 20 minutes using simple pantry staples and fresh carrots. The glaze is a balance of sweet and savory, with a hint of warmth from butter and a subtle caramel-like finish that clings to each bite. It’s a kid-approved way to serve veggies—and adults will love them just as much.

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Ingredients Overview

Each ingredient is carefully chosen to balance sweetness, richness, and texture in this comforting dish.

Carrots

The star of the show. Carrots bring their own natural sweetness and vivid orange color. Use whole carrots, peeled and sliced into coins or sticks, or baby carrots for convenience.

Butter

Butter gives richness and depth to the glaze. Use unsalted butter to better control salt levels.

Brown Sugar

Creates that glossy, caramelized glaze. Light brown sugar works best, but dark brown sugar offers a deeper molasses flavor if preferred.

Water or Vegetable Broth

Used to steam the carrots and help the glaze coat evenly. Broth adds a subtle savory base, but water is perfectly fine.

Salt

Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor. Don’t skip it—it’s essential in sweet-savory glazes.

Optional Flavor Boosters:

• Honey or Maple Syrup: For added complexity or to replace sugar

• Cinnamon or Nutmeg: For a warm holiday twist

• Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme): To garnish and add freshness

• Orange zest: Adds a bright citrus lift, perfect for spring or Easter meals

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Step-by-Step Instructions

This one-pan recipe couldn’t be easier. Here’s how to make the perfect batch of glazed carrots in about 15–20 minutes.

1. Prep the Carrots

• Peel and slice 1 pound of carrots into ¼-inch thick rounds or sticks.

• For baby carrots, no slicing needed—just rinse and pat dry.

2. Steam the Carrots

• In a large skillet or saucepan, add carrots and ½ cup water or broth.

• Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook over medium heat for 6–8 minutes, or until just fork-tender.

• Drain any remaining water.

3. Make the Glaze

• To the skillet, add:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

• Stir gently to coat the carrots as the butter and sugar melt.

4. Simmer and Glaze

• Cook uncovered for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens and coats the carrots.

• Watch closely so the sugar doesn’t burn.

5. Serve Warm

• Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

• Serve immediately while warm and glossy.

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Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Flavor Variations

• Maple-Glazed Carrots: Replace brown sugar with 2 tbsp maple syrup

• Honey-Glazed Carrots: Use 1½ tbsp honey instead of brown sugar

• Spiced Carrots: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or clove for a fall-inspired version

• Citrus Carrots: Stir in ½ tsp orange zest or 1 tbsp orange juice at the end

Substitutions

• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter

• Sugar-Free Option: Use a sugar-free brown sweetener like monk fruit blend

• Baby Carrots: Can be used whole; increase steaming time to 10–12 minutes

Texture Fixes

• Carrots too soft? Reduce steaming time by 2–3 minutes

• Glaze too thin? Simmer uncovered an extra 1–2 minutes

• Want a caramelized finish? Place carrots under the broiler for 2 minutes at the end

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Serving Ideas & Occasions

Best Served With:

• Roast chicken or turkey

• Grilled pork chops or tenderloin

• Holiday hams

• Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and green beans

• Quinoa or couscous for a vegetarian plate

Perfect For:

• Holiday dinners (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter)

• Weeknight meals

• Potlucks or church dinners

• Kid-friendly veggie sides

• Meal prep—they reheat well in the microwave or stovetop

Pair these carrots with hearty proteins or grain bowls for a complete, balanced plate.

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Nutritional & Health Notes

Carrots are naturally sweet and full of nutrients—even more so when paired with balanced fats and minimal added sugar.

Health Benefits:

• High in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A for vision and immune support

• Low in calories, high in fiber

• Butter adds satiety and helps absorb fat-soluble nutrients

• Easily adaptable for gluten-free, vegetarian, and low-sugar diets

To make it even healthier:

• Reduce sugar to 1 tbsp or replace with maple syrup

• Use olive oil instead of butter

• Add fresh herbs for brightness without extra calories

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen carrots?

Yes, just thaw first and pat dry to remove excess moisture. Steaming time may be shorter, so check for doneness early.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or in the microwave.

3. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger skillet or sauté in two batches to prevent overcrowding, which can affect the glaze consistency.

4. Are these carrots very sweet?

They’re sweet but balanced by butter and salt. Reduce sugar to 1 tbsp for a lighter glaze or adjust to your preference.

5. Can I make these without butter?

Yes. Use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute. The glaze will be slightly less rich but still delicious.

6. What kind of brown sugar should I use?

Light brown sugar is perfect for a mild molasses note. Dark brown sugar gives a deeper, richer flavor.

7. How do I keep the glaze from burning?

Cook over medium heat, stir often, and don’t walk away once the glaze starts to thicken. If it cooks too quickly, lower the heat and stir continuously.

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