A simple and sweet side dish that’s ready in under 20 minutes—perfect for pairing with weeknight meals or holiday feasts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and fuss-free: From start to finish in about 15–18 minutes.
Naturally sweet and buttery: Honey (or maple syrup) and brown sugar create a luscious glaze.
Customizable: Add spices or tangy vinegar to adapt to your taste preferences.
Healthy benefit: Uses fresh carrots with minimal added ingredients for a nutritious side.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 ½ lb carrots, peeled and cut into ½‑inch thick slices
1 ½ Tbsp honey or maple syrup
¼ cup butter
¼ cup light brown sugar
¼ tsp salt
Directions
Cook the carrots
Place sliced carrots in a large saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Cook for 8–10 minutes until fork-tender but still slightly firm.
Drain and glaze
Drain any excess water. Add honey (or maple syrup), butter, brown sugar, and salt. Stir to fully coat the carrots.
Finish cooking
Cook over medium heat for another 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until a syrupy glaze forms and carrots are evenly coated.
Serve
Remove from heat. Optionally sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving warm as a sweet, flavorful side dish.
Servings and Timing
Yields: 4–6 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: ~18–20 minutes
Variations
Spiced glaze: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, aromatic flavor.
Savory twist: Reduce brown sugar slightly and stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving.
Maple option: Use pure maple syrup instead of honey for a richer, earthy sweetness.
Herb garnish: Top with chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary for added freshness.
Storage/Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if glazed sauce has thickened. Avoid microwave reheating to maintain texture.
FAQ
s
1. Can I use frozen carrots?
Yes—thaw and pat dry, then follow the recipe; cooking time may be slightly shorter.
2. What if my glaze is too thick?
Stir in 1–2 tablespoons of water to loosen the glaze and help it coat the carrots evenly.
3. Can I substitute brown sugar?
Dark brown sugar works too and adds a deeper molasses flavor; granulated sugar will work but will taste less complex.
4. How can I make this dish less sweet?
Reduce the brown sugar or swap a portion of the sweeteners for extra butter and a splash of vinegar for tang.
5. Can I add more spices?
Definitely—ground ginger, allspice, or even chili powder make interesting and flavorful additions.
6. Are these suitable for meal prep?
Yes—they reheat well and make a colorful, delicious vegetable component for meals.
7. How do I keep carrots from becoming mushy?
Slice them evenly and avoid overcooking; stop simmering when they’re fork-tender but still firm.
8. Is butter necessary?
It adds richness and gloss; for a lighter alternative, use olive oil or plant-based spread.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Yes—double all ingredients and use a larger pot; cooking time remains about the same.
10. Can I prepare them ahead of time?
Cook fully, cool, and store in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving so the glaze is warm and luscious.
Conclusion
Easy Honey Glazed Carrots deliver tender, sweet, and buttery goodness in just minutes—ideal as a side dish for any meal. With flexible ingredient swaps and variations, this crowd-pleaser will become a staple in your recipe collection. Serve them warm, enjoy the shine and flavor, and watch them disappear fast.
These easy honey glazed carrots are a quick, sweet, and buttery side dish that complements both everyday dinners and special holiday meals. Ready in under 20 minutes, they’re a nutritious and flavorful addition to any plate.
Ingredients
1½ lb carrots, peeled and cut into ½-inch thick slices
1½ Tbsp honey or maple syrup
¼ cup butter
¼ cup light brown sugar
¼ tsp salt
Instructions
Cook the carrots: In a large saucepan, cover sliced carrots with water and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Cook for 8–10 minutes until fork-tender but slightly firm.
Drain and glaze: Drain excess water. Add honey (or maple syrup), butter, brown sugar, and salt. Stir to coat the carrots evenly.
Finish cooking: Continue cooking over medium heat for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until a syrupy glaze forms and carrots are fully glazed.
Serve: Remove from heat. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Use maple syrup for a deeper, earthy sweetness.
Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
To make it savory, reduce sugar and stir in balsamic vinegar.
Chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary add freshness.
