Deliciously Sweet: Brown Sugar Baked Carrots Recipe to Elevate Your Mealtime (2024)

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Indulge in the sweetness of brown sugar carrots with our delectable recipe. Discover how to elevate this classic side dish to new heights of flavor!

Deliciously Sweet: Brown Sugar Baked Carrots Recipe to Elevate Your Mealtime (1)

Looking for a delicious and vibrant side dish to complement your main course? Look no further than brown sugar carrots! This baked carrots recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.

Brown sugar glazed carrots make a delicious and vibrant addition to any meal, whether it’s a dinner on busy weeknights or a special occasion like a holiday dinner.

With a touch of brown sugar, this carrot recipe works with the natural sugars to create a mouthwatering dish with a sweet glaze that takes healthy vegetables to a whole new level.

The brown sugar caramelizes as it coats the sweet carrots throughout the roasting process, creating a glossy glaze that adds depth and richness, transforming simple carrots into a luscious and sweet side dish.

One of the best things about roasted glazed carrots is how easy they are to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can have a delicious side dish on the table in no time.

Deliciously Sweet: Brown Sugar Baked Carrots Recipe to Elevate Your Mealtime (2)

How to Make Brown Sugar Carrots

If you scroll down, I have a printable recipe card for you with instructions and the full simple ingredients.

Ingredient Checklist:

  • 10-12 Whole Carrots (usually 1 bag of carrots), peeled and then cut in half OR 2 dozen baby carrots.
  • teaspoon salt & pepper
  • cinnamon
  • dark brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter

Directions

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Wash and peel the carrots, removing any dirt or blemishes. Trim off the tops and cut them into evenly sized pieces, such as diagonal slices or sticks.

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until well combined.

Add the sliced carrots to the bowl and toss them with the brown sugar mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Deliciously Sweet: Brown Sugar Baked Carrots Recipe to Elevate Your Mealtime (3)

Place carrots to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer.

Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized, flipping them once halfway through the cooking time.

Deliciously Sweet: Brown Sugar Baked Carrots Recipe to Elevate Your Mealtime (4)

Keep an eye on the carrots during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent them from burning. The brown sugar will melt and caramelize, creating a glossy glaze on the carrots.

Once the carrots are roasted to your desired tenderness and have a golden brown color, remove them from the oven.

Garnish the roasted carrots with chopped fresh herbs, if desired, to add an extra burst of flavor and freshness.

Store leftover carrots in an airtight container. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove top on medium-high heat.

Deliciously Sweet: Brown Sugar Baked Carrots Recipe to Elevate Your Mealtime (5)

How to Slice Carrots

  • Start by washing the carrots under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a vegetable brush to scrub off any stubborn dirt.
  • If desired, peel the carrots using a vegetable peeler. Trim off the green tops and bottoms of the carrots using a sharp knife. Remove any green stems or leaves attached to the carrot.
  • For oven-baked carrots, aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. Place the trimmed carrot on a cutting board. Hold the carrot steady with one hand and use a sharp knife to slice it into the desired shape. For rounds, slice the carrot crosswise into even slices. For sticks, cut the carrot lengthwise into long strips and then slice them into sticks. For diagonal slices, cut the carrot at an angle to create elongated pieces.
  • Try to maintain a consistent thickness for even cooking. If you prefer softer carrots, slice them slightly thicker. For a quicker cooking time and slightly firmer texture, slice them thinner.
  • Once the carrots are sliced, they are ready to be arranged on a baking sheet for baking. Make sure to spread them in a single layer with enough space between each piece to promote even cooking and browning.
Deliciously Sweet: Brown Sugar Baked Carrots Recipe to Elevate Your Mealtime (6)

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What to Serve with Brown Sugar Carrots:

Brown sugar carrots are not only delicious, but they also complement a wide range of main courses.

So, what pairs well with glazed carrots? They are the perfect side dish to savory dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

With their versatility, brown sugar carrots are an excellent choice for everyday meals or special occasions. Prepare them for your next dinner party or enjoy them as a family-favorite side dish – the possibilities are endless.

Some suggestions for what to serve alongside brown sugar baked carrots include your favorite recipes such as roast chicken, steak, salmon, pork chops and vegetarian options such as roasted vegetable medleys, stir fries and salads.

Baked carrots are a popular side dish for holiday meals, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas, where they complement the richness of traditional dishes like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and roasted turkey.

Deliciously Sweet: Brown Sugar Baked Carrots Recipe to Elevate Your Mealtime (7)

FAQs about Oven Baked Glazed Carrots

Can I use other sweeteners instead of brown sugar?

Yes, you can experiment with different sweeteners to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Options like maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar can be used as alternatives to brown sugar. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly based on the sweetener you choose.

Can I make brown sugar carrots ahead of time?

Absolutely! Brown sugar carrots can be prepared ahead of time and reheated when needed. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.

Can I adjust the sweetness level of brown sugar carrots?

Yes, you have the flexibility to adjust the sweetness of the dish according to your preference. If you prefer a milder sweetness, reduce the amount of brown sugar in the recipe. Conversely, if you have a sweet tooth, you can increase the amount of brown sugar. Keep in mind that adjusting the sweetness may impact the overall flavor balance, so it’s recommended to make gradual changes and taste as you go.

Can I add other spices or seasonings to brown sugar carrots?

Absolutely! Brown sugar carrots can be customized with various spices and seasonings to add depth and complexity to the dish. Common options include cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, or even a sprinkle of herbs like fresh thyme or rosemary. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.

How long to roast carrots at 350 degrees?

When roasting carrots at 350 degrees F, the cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the carrots. As a general guideline, small to medium-sized carrots typically take about 25-30 minutes to roast, while larger carrots may require 35-40 minutes.

Deliciously Sweet: Brown Sugar Baked Carrots Recipe to Elevate Your Mealtime (8)

Yield: 8

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Discover a delightful side dish with our oven baked carrots recipe. These tender, flavorful and buttery carrots are perfectly roasted to bring out their natural sweetness. This easy and delicious side dish will become your favorite way to enjoy carrots.

Ingredients

  • 10-12 Carrots, peeled and then cut in half OR 2 dozen baby carrots.
  • salt & pepper
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 4 tbsp butter, diced

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Wash and peel the carrots, removing any dirt or blemishes. Trim off the tops and cut them into evenly sized pieces, such as diagonal slices or sticks.

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until well combined.

Add the sliced carrots to the bowl and toss them with the brown sugar mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Place carrots to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer.

Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized, flipping them once halfway through the cooking time.

Keep an eye on the carrots during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent them from burning. The brown sugar will melt and caramelize, creating a glossy glaze on the carrots.

Once the carrots are roasted to your desired tenderness and have a golden brown color, remove them from the oven.

Garnish the roasted carrots with chopped fresh herbs, if desired, to add an extra burst of flavor and freshness.

Store leftover carrots in an air-tight container. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove top on medium-high heat.

Did you make this recipe?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

Deliciously Sweet: Brown Sugar Baked Carrots Recipe to Elevate Your Mealtime (9)

Yield: 8

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Discover a delightful side dish with our oven baked carrots recipe. These tender, flavorful and buttery carrots are perfectly roasted to bring out their natural sweetness. This easy and delicious side dish will become your favorite way to enjoy carrots.

Ingredients

  • 10-12 Carrots, peeled and then cut in half OR 2 dozen baby carrots.
  • salt & pepper
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 4 tbsp butter, diced

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Wash and peel the carrots, removing any dirt or blemishes. Trim off the tops and cut them into evenly sized pieces, such as diagonal slices or sticks.

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until well combined.

Add the sliced carrots to the bowl and toss them with the brown sugar mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Place carrots to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer.

Roast the carrots in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and caramelized, flipping them once halfway through the cooking time.

Keep an eye on the carrots during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent them from burning. The brown sugar will melt and caramelize, creating a glossy glaze on the carrots.

Once the carrots are roasted to your desired tenderness and have a golden brown color, remove them from the oven.

Garnish the roasted carrots with chopped fresh herbs, if desired, to add an extra burst of flavor and freshness.

Store leftover carrots in an air-tight container. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stove top on medium-high heat.

Did you make this recipe?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

Deliciously Sweet: Brown Sugar Baked Carrots Recipe to Elevate Your Mealtime (2024)

FAQs

What is the most nutritious way to cook carrots? ›

Another study showed both boiling and steaming increased levels of beta carotene. But try to cook carrots whole, as cutting can reduce nutrients by 25%. Wait and wash veggies just before cooking to preserve nutrients. In fact, cooking veggies whole is often the best choice to preserve nutrients.

What makes carrots sweet? ›

As carrots grow, they develop terpenoids which are what give carrots their flavour. The sugars develop later on and are stored in the root. Pick too early and you'll be eating the terpenoids, without the sugars.

How to bake tender carrots? ›

Spread them in a single layer on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper. Transfer to a 425°F oven and roast for 15 to 25 minutes. The carrots are ready when they're fork-tender and nicely browned, but not mushy. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh parsley, if you like.

Can you cook carrots and then reheat? ›

If you are planning a large meal, you can make these carrots a day before. Cook them, let the cool completely, and then put them in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat them, place them in a medium-heated oven just to heat them through.

Can carrots be prepared ahead of time? ›

Carrots: Carrots can be peeled in advance (if roasting them whole) or peeled and chopped, shredded, or grated up to 3 to 4 days in advance. Store in a sealed bag or container with an airtight lid in the refrigerator. Bell Peppers: Can be washed, cored, and seeded 2 to 3 days in advance.

What makes carrots taste better? ›

Carrots go well with orange, either for savory or sweet dishes. They help to increase the sweetness in a pleasant way. Other citrus, such as lemon, can enhance the carrot flavors too. Add a little brown sugar to carrots to bring out the sweetness in carrots.

How does Gordon Ramsay cook carrots? ›

Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan, then add the carrots and parsnips and toss to coat in the oil. Add the thyme, cinnamon, star anise and some seasoning. Cook over a medium heat for 15-20 minutes, turning the vegetables frequently, until golden brown and almost cooked through.

Is it better to cook carrots in the oven or boiling them? ›

Roasted carrots have the best texture, and the flavor is amazing. Roasting draws out the natural sweetness and you get a nice caramelized flavor. They're so much better than boiled carrots! Roasting is also easy; it's hard to overcook a roasted vegetable: if it gets too done, it's clearly burned.

What is the sweetest type of carrot? ›

Select carrot varieties known for their sweet flavor. Dantes, Little finger, Short 'n Sweet, Sweetness, and Tendersweet are just a few to consider. Be sure to plant carrots early in the season for an early summer harvest, midseason for a fall harvest or fall for a winter harvest in milder climates.

Why are baked carrots sweet? ›

Their natural sweetness in enhanced by roasting so that the carrots' own sugars are caramelized.

Why do roasted carrots taste sweet? ›

Have you ever wondered why roasting makes vegetables taste sweeter? It's all about the caramelization process. Raw vegetables can taste bitter, especially to people who may not be sold on eating them, such as kids or grown-up kids. Roasting vegetables mellows the flavor.

Why are my baked carrots hard? ›

Undercook them, and the texture is tough and dense. Overcook them, and they're dry and wrinkled. The secret is to soften the carrots slightly by boiling them briefly before roasting. The texture will be firm-tender with just the right amount of caramelization on the outside.

Why are my carrots still hard in the oven? ›

If your carrots are still hard, then they are likely undercooked.

Can you reheat glazed carrots? ›

Store glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat them on the stovetop with a little added butter or in the microwave. We do not recommend freezing glazed carrots because their texture after defrosting will be mushy and unappealing.

How long do glazed carrots last in the fridge? ›

Allow the glazed carrots to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store your leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove. We don't recommend freezing these glazed carrots, as the texture will become mushy during the thawing process.

How to reheat glazed carrots in the oven? ›

Glazed carrots can be reheated in a buttered skillet or reheated in a 375 degrees F oven until warmed through. If they seem a little dry, you can give a another drizzle of oil or melted butter and an extra sprinkle of brown sugar.

Do roasted carrots reheat well? ›

It turns out that reheating roasted veggies on the stove is the best and fastest option for ensuring they're just as delicious as they were when you first cooked them. Bonus: They'll be ready in 5 minutes or less! They're great to enjoy on their own or served over rice, pasta, creamy hummus or fluffy scrambled eggs.

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