Name: Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots for Any Meal Magic Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound Carrots (washed, peeled, and cut into pieces); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (packed); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar (optional); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Introduction

Sweet & Savory Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are a delicious side dish that pairs well with any meal. With a perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of spice, these tender carrots bring warmth and flavor to your table.

A close-up view of a black cast iron pan filled with many shiny, cooked baby carrots, evenly coated with a glistening glaze that shows specks of seasoning. The carrots are bright orange, arranged in a scattered but full layer covering the pan's surface. Small fresh green parsley leaves are sprinkled on top, adding a touch of color contrast. The pan rests on a white marbled surface with some fresh parsley in the background and a gray cloth with white polka dots nearby, alongside a wooden spoon partially visible to the right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound Carrots (washed, peeled, and cut into pieces)
2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted)
1/4 cup Brown Sugar (packed)
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar (optional)
2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Wash, peel, and cut carrots into uniform pieces about 1 to 2 inches long.
Step 2: Bring a medium pot of water to a boil, add the carrots, and cook for 4-5 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and ground cinnamon.
Step 4: Simmer the glaze until it thickens to a syrupy texture, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Add the drained carrots to the glaze and toss to coat evenly.
Step 6: Cook on low heat for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are glossy and heated through.
Step 7: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. For a tangy twist, drizzle with apple cider vinegar before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra depth, add a pinch of ground nutmeg or ginger to the glaze.
If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar slightly or omit the apple cider vinegar.
Use baby carrots for a quicker preparation and a sweeter bite.
For a vegan version, replace butter with plant-based margarine or coconut oil.

Storage

Store leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain the glaze’s shine and flavor.

How to Serve

A deep white plate holds a dish with two main layers. The bottom layer is a thick, creamy white spread with a slightly uneven texture. On top, there is a pile of bright orange roasted baby carrots, shiny from glaze, arranged loosely in the center. Small specks of green herbs and thyme sprigs are scattered across the carrots, adding color contrast. A silver spoon rests on the plate edge, partially under the carrots. The plate sits on a surface with a white marbled texture, and nearby is a small white pot with blue and red flower designs, holding a wooden honey dipper. A blue and white striped cloth is partially visible near the bottom right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the glazed carrots up to a day in advance. Reheat gently before serving to restore their glossy appearance.

Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?

Frozen carrots can be used, but reduce the initial boiling time and be sure to drain them well before glazing to avoid excess water in the dish.