Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots: A Sweet and Savory Side Dish for Any Occasion

There’s nothing quite like the comforting blend of sweet and savory flavors in brown sugar honey glazed carrots. This dish takes ordinary carrots and transforms them into a mouthwatering delight with a golden glaze and just the right amount of seasoning. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, these carrots will add a touch of elegance and warmth to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Picture this: tender, roasted carrots coated in a luscious honey-brown sugar glaze, sprinkled with fresh herbs, and garnished with pomegranate seeds or nuts for a burst of texture. This dish is as beautiful as it is delicious. Plus, it’s easy to make, using pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create a side dish that complements any meal.

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots

Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible dish:

Carrots and Glaze

Ingredient	Quantity
Carrots (washed, peeled, and halved lengthwise)	2 pounds (~12 large)
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Honey (or maple syrup)	2 tablespoons
Apple cider vinegar	1 teaspoon
Salt	1 teaspoon
Cinnamon	½ teaspoon
Ground black pepper	¼ teaspoon
Fresh thyme (finely chopped)	1 ½ teaspoons
Fresh parsley (finely chopped)	1 ½ tablespoons

Finishing Touches

Ingredient	Quantity
Brown sugar	3 tablespoons
Garnish options:	Pomegranate seeds, fresh parsley, walnuts, or pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 400°F (205°C).
• Wash, peel, and trim the carrots. Slice each carrot in half lengthwise for even roasting.

2. Prepare the Glaze

• In a small bowl, whisk together the following ingredients:
  • Olive oil
  • Honey (or maple syrup)
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Salt
  • Cinnamon
  • Ground black pepper
  • Chopped thyme and parsley

3. Coat the Carrots

• Place the carrots in a large bowl or directly on a baking sheet.
• Pour the glaze over the carrots and toss until evenly coated.

4. Roast the Carrots

• Spread the carrots in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
• Roast for 20 minutes, stirring once or twice to ensure even cooking.

5. Add the Brown Sugar

• Remove the carrots from the oven and sprinkle them with 3 tablespoons of brown sugar.
• Toss to coat, then return the carrots to the oven for an additional 15–20 minutes or until fork-tender and caramelized.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Transfer the carrots to a serving dish.
• Garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds, more chopped parsley, and/or chopped walnuts or pecans for added flavor and crunch.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1/6 of Recipe)
Calories	~120
Total Fat	~5g
Saturated Fat	~1g
Cholesterol	0mg
Sodium	~200mg
Total Carbohydrates	~18g
Sugars	~12g
Protein	~1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients used.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Sweet and Savory Balance

The combination of honey, brown sugar, and cinnamon provides just the right amount of sweetness, while the thyme and vinegar add a subtle savory tang.

2. Perfect Texture

Roasting the carrots brings out their natural sweetness and creates a tender, slightly caramelized texture that’s irresistible.

3. Beautiful Presentation

The vibrant colors of the carrots, garnished with pomegranate seeds and herbs, make this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Tips for Perfect Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots

1. Use Fresh Carrots

Fresh, firm carrots will yield the best flavor and texture.

2. Don’t Skip the Vinegar

A small amount of apple cider vinegar enhances the glaze by balancing the sweetness.

3. Adjust Seasonings to Taste

Feel free to add more cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for a warmer flavor.

4. Avoid Overcrowding the Pan

Arrange the carrots in a single layer to ensure even roasting and caramelization.

5. Customize the Garnishes

Try different garnishes like roasted pumpkin seeds or crumbled goat cheese for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Main Courses to Pair With

• Roast Chicken: The sweetness of the carrots complements the savory flavors of a classic roast chicken.
• Grilled Salmon: The bright glaze pairs beautifully with the richness of salmon.
• Holiday Ham: This dish is the perfect side for a festive meal.

Other Side Dishes

• Mashed potatoes
• Garlic butter green beans
• Warm dinner rolls

FAQs About Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots

1. Can I use baby carrots instead of large carrots?

Yes, baby carrots work well and require no peeling or slicing. Adjust the roasting time slightly to account for their size.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and roast the carrots earlier in the day. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes before serving.

3. What can I use as a honey substitute?

Maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives to honey.

4. How do I make this recipe vegan?

Use maple syrup instead of honey and ensure the brown sugar is vegan-certified.

5. Can I freeze glazed carrots?

While the texture may change slightly, you can freeze this dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

6. Are there other spices I can use?

Yes! Try adding nutmeg, allspice, or even a pinch of smoked paprika for a unique flavor profile.

Why Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots Are a Crowd-Pleaser

This dish combines simplicity with elegance, making it a versatile side for any meal. The natural sweetness of the carrots shines through, enhanced by a golden glaze and aromatic herbs. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

Ready to impress your family and friends with a sweet and savory side dish? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and start roasting these incredible brown sugar honey glazed carrots today!

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