Candied Carrots are an easy, delightful side dish that adds a pop of color and flavor to any meal. These tender carrots are glazed with butter and brown sugar, creating a sweet and savory balance that’s perfect for holiday dinners or any time you want to add something special to the table. With only a few ingredients, these candied carrots are simple to prepare and hard to resist!
Equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowl
Ingredients:
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds or sticks
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for extra sweetness)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg (optional, for a warm spice note)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Carrots
Place the sliced carrots in a medium saucepan and add enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the carrots are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the Glaze
In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, honey (if using), salt, and optional cinnamon or nutmeg. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes. - Glaze the Carrots
Add the cooked carrots back to the saucepan and gently toss them in the glaze. Continue cooking for 2-3 more minutes, allowing the carrots to become coated and caramelized. - Serve
Transfer the candied carrots to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the carrots in a shallow white or glass dish to showcase their bright color.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or a dash of extra brown sugar for a sweet finishing touch.
- Pair with roasted meats like turkey or ham for a well-rounded, visually appealing holiday plate.
Tips:
- For a deeper caramel flavor, try using dark brown sugar instead of light brown.
- Adding a pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- You can substitute maple syrup for honey or even use a splash of orange juice for a citrus twist.
- To make ahead, cook and glaze the carrots, then reheat gently over low heat before serving.
Candied Carrots are a simple yet impressive side dish that brings a touch of sweetness to any meal. Perfectly tender and glazed to perfection, they’re an easy way to elevate your dinner table, whether it’s a holiday feast or a weekday meal. With their rich flavor and vibrant color, these candied carrots are sure to be a favorite with family and friends alike!
Candied Carrots Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb carrots peeled and sliced into rounds or sticks
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup optional for extra sweetness
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg optional, for a warm spice note
- Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Carrots
- Place the sliced carrots in a medium saucepan and add enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the carrots are tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Glaze
- In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, honey (if using), salt, and optional cinnamon or nutmeg. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Glaze the Carrots
- Add the cooked carrots back to the saucepan and gently toss them in the glaze. Continue cooking for 2-3 more minutes, allowing the carrots to become coated and caramelized.
- Serve
- Transfer the candied carrots to a serving bowl and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
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