Glazed carrots bring out the natural sweetness of this humble root vegetable, transforming it into a dish that feels both comforting and elegant.
With just a handful of ingredients—carrots, butter, sugar or honey, and a touch of seasoning—you can create a glossy, flavorful side that pairs beautifully with everything from roasted meats to weeknight chicken. The key lies in gently cooking the carrots until they’re tender, then finishing them in a sweet glaze that clings to each piece like a shiny coat.
This recipe focuses on simplicity and balance. You want the carrots to remain slightly firm, not mushy, with just enough glaze to enhance rather than overpower their natural flavor.
Whether you choose brown sugar for depth, honey for floral notes, or maple syrup for a richer taste, you can tailor the glaze to fit the rest of your meal. Glazed carrots work well for holidays, dinner parties, or any meal where you want a touch of sweetness and color on the plate.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of preparing them, share a few variations to try, and offer tips to ensure your glaze turns out perfectly every time. Let’s bring some shine to your table.
Glazed Carrots Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound carrots peeled and sliced on a bias or use baby carrots
- 2 tablespoons butter unsalted
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup or brown sugar
- ¼ cup water or low-sodium vegetable broth
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- freshly ground pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the carrots
- If using large carrots, peel and slice them into uniform pieces about ¼-inch thick on a diagonal.
Simmer
- In a medium skillet over medium heat, combine the carrots, butter, honey, water, salt, and a few grinds of pepper. Stir to coat the carrots.
Cover and cook
- Cover the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are just tender but still firm.
Uncover and glaze
- Remove the lid and continue cooking for an additional 5–8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the liquid has reduced to a glossy glaze.
Finish
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Sprinkle with fresh herbs, if using, and serve warm.
