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 makes carrots taste 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.

What is the healthiest 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.

How to roast carrots in Jamie Oliver? ›

Method. Preheat your oven to 200°C/400°F/gas 6. Toss your carrots with a good lug of olive oil, a splash of vinegar, salt and pepper, the thyme sprigs and the garlic cloves. Place in a roasting tray or earthenware dish, cover tightly with tinfoil and cook for 30 to 40 minutes until just tender.

What to eat with glazed carrots? ›

Glazed carrots coated in a mixture of brown sugar and butter are a versatile side dish you can serve alongside a weeknight meatloaf, a Sunday ham, or your Thanksgiving turkey. These caramelized carrots are a definite kid-pleaser but they're elegant enough to impress the adults as well!

What's the difference between sweet carrots and regular carrots? ›

White or Golden Carrots

These types of carrots are also notably sweeter than orange, red, and purple carrots. They work particularly well roasted, and can also be glazed by cooking them in a pan with a bit of butter and sugar.

How to get the most flavor out of carrots? ›

Raw is for rabbits. High heat and good browning make carrots taste sweeter and more delicious.

How does Gordon Ramsay cook carrots? ›

Cooking instructions

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 healthier to eat carrots raw or cooked? ›

Carrots. Raw carrots are fine, but cooked carrots are better for you. Cooking carrots allows beta carotene, an antioxidant compound that gets converted to vitamin A in the intestine, to absorb more easily in the body, explains Beckerman.

How do you eat carrots without losing nutrients? ›

Carrots - To preserve beta-carotene, a substance that helps the body obtain vitamin A, carrots should be cooked for about five minutes over medium to high heat. Grab a pot and add enough water to cover all the carrots. Try slicing them not so thinly.

What cooking method is best for carrots? ›

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. However, it's so easy to overcook boiled vegetables, especially carrots.

What happens if you don't peel carrots before roasting? ›

That's likely because carrot skins can turn bitter and dry when they're cooked. For some, the flavor difference is barely noticeable, but for others, the earthiness is a complete turn-off. Carrots' glossy exteriors may also turn dusty and dry in the heat of an oven.

Why are my roasted 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.

What brings out the carrot flavor? ›

A little honey brings out their natural sweetness. To me, roasted carrots are the perfect veggie side dish. They're easy to make, but they're also amazingly flavorful. The hot oven intensifies the carrots' natural sweetness, and it makes them soft and tender, with lightly crisp, caramelized edges.

What meat pairs best with carrots? ›

Roasted carrots go with all proteins – chicken, pork, lamb, beef, seafood. Specifically, I find it best to serve roast chicken fresh out of the oven so these carrots don't make an appearance on the side of chicken.

What fertilizer makes carrots sweet? ›

H-G Sweet 'N Grow is a plant supplement designed to increase the quality and sweetness of your carrots as well as other fruits and vegetables.

Do carrots get sweeter over time? ›

Yes carrots are sweeter in winter. Regular watering at intervals of seven to eight days in winter after germination. Stop watering for 15 days before removing the carrots, it produces sweetness in the carrots.

Why do some vegetables taste sweet? ›

Natural defense mechanism

This increased sweetness is no accident. It's a survival strategy for plants in the face of cold. In autumn, cold-adapted vegetables begin to concentrate sugar in their cells. This accumulation of sugar lowers the freezing point of the cells.

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