15-Minute Glazed Carrots That Taste Breathtakingly Sweet

Name: 15-Minute Glazed Carrots That Taste Breathtakingly Sweet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp honey; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

Author: Tessa

Published: August 23, 2025

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Glazed carrots have been my go-to side dish for as long as I can remember. There’s something magical about how a few simple ingredients—butter, sugar, and a splash of honey—transform humble carrots into a sweet, caramelized delight. I first learned this recipe from my mom, who made it for every holiday dinner, but honestly, it’s so easy that I whip it up on busy weeknights too. Whether you’re pairing them with roasted chicken, a holiday ham, or just serving them as a quick veggie side, glazed carrots always hit the spot. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s a classic!

Glazed Carrots - detail 1

Ingredients for Glazed Carrots

Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible glazed carrots (measurements matter!):

1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch coins
2 tbsp real butter (no substitutes!)
2 tbsp packed brown sugar
1 tbsp honey (the good, sticky kind)
¼ tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (pretty but optional)

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

The honey gives that glossy finish, but maple syrup works beautifully too. Want less sweetness? Cut the brown sugar to 1 tbsp. Parsley adds color, but chives or thyme are lovely swaps. And please – use real butter! Margarine just won’t give you that rich, velvety glaze we’re after.

How to Make Glazed Carrots

Making perfect glazed carrots is easier than you think—just follow these simple steps and you’ll have glossy, sweet-tender carrots ready in no time!

Step 1: Prep and Boil the Carrots

First, peel and slice your carrots into even ¼-inch coins (this helps them cook uniformly). Pop them in a pot of boiling water and let them bubble away for exactly 5 minutes—you want them slightly tender but still with a bit of bite. Drain them well—no watery carrots allowed!

Step 2: Make the Glaze

Return those drained carrots to the warm pot and add the butter, brown sugar, honey, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic happens! Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly as the butter melts and the sugars dissolve into the most luscious glaze. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture turns bubbly and coats the back of your spoon.

Step 3: Glaze the Carrots

Now comes the fun part—tossing those carrots until they’re perfectly coated in that glossy, golden glaze! Keep cooking for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the carrots are fork-tender and shimmering. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy.

Glazed Carrots - detail 2

Tips for Perfect Glazed Carrots

Want restaurant-quality glazed carrots every time? Here’s my foolproof advice: First, always use fresh carrots—they keep their texture better than baby carrots or frozen. Second, don’t skip the boil before glazing; it ensures even cooking. And here’s my secret—let the glaze bubble until it slightly thickens (about 30 seconds longer than you think). Finally, taste as you go! If it’s too sweet, add a pinch of salt. Too bland? A splash of lemon juice brightens everything up beautifully.

Variations of Glazed Carrots

Once you’ve mastered the basics, try these fun twists! For holiday warmth, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze. Love ginger? Stir in ½ tsp grated fresh ginger with the butter. Swap honey for maple syrup or orange marmalade—each brings its own cozy sweetness. Savory fans, try adding minced garlic or a dash of balsamic vinegar!

Serving Suggestions for Glazed Carrots

These glazed carrots shine brightest alongside roasted chicken or a holiday ham—that sweet-savory combo is pure magic! They’re also fantastic with pork chops or tucked into a Thanksgiving spread. For weeknights? I love them with simple baked salmon or meatloaf. Honestly, they make everything taste special!

Storing and Reheating Glazed Carrots

Leftover glazed carrots? No problem! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, I prefer the stovetop—just warm them gently in a pan with a splash of water to loosen the glaze. The microwave works too (30-second bursts, stirring between), but they might get a bit softer. Pro tip: If the glaze separates, a quick stir over low heat brings it right back together!

Nutritional Information for Glazed Carrots

One serving (about ½ cup) has roughly 120 calories, 6g fat, 18g carbs, and 3g fiber. Keep in mind, nutrition can vary slightly based on ingredient brands and measurements. Enjoy in moderation!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Glazed Carrots Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Cook the carrots and glaze completely, then store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to refresh the glaze—they’ll taste just-made!

Are Glazed Carrots Healthy?

Carrots pack vitamins no matter how you cook them! The butter and sugar add calories, but it’s all about balance. I keep portions reasonable (about ½ cup per serving) and enjoy them as part of a varied diet.

Can I Use Other Vegetables?

You bet! This glaze works wonders on parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even turnips. Just adjust cooking times—harder veggies may need longer boiling. The method stays the same, so get creative with your favorites!