Description
These Honey Glazed Carrots are tender, sweet, and coated in a buttery honey glaze that caramelizes perfectly. Ready in just 20 minutes, this simple side dish is elegant enough for holidays yet easy enough for weeknight dinners. The glossy finish and vibrant color make them as beautiful as they are delicious!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds medium carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces (or baby carrots)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the carrots: Peel the carrots and cut them into uniform 2-inch pieces, cutting thicker ends in half lengthwise so all pieces are roughly the same size. This ensures even cooking.
- Start cooking: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the carrots and water (or broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium, cover, and simmer for 8-10 minutes until the carrots are just tender when pierced with a fork but still have a slight bite.
- Create the glaze: Once most of the liquid has evaporated, add the butter, honey, brown sugar, salt, and pepper to the pan. If using garlic, add it now.
- Caramelize: Increase heat to medium-high and cook uncovered for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the glaze thickens and coats the carrots beautifully. The carrots should become glossy and slightly caramelized.
- Add herbs: If using fresh thyme, sprinkle it over the carrots and toss to combine during the last minute of cooking.
- Serve: Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately while warm and glossy.
Notes
- For best results, cut carrots into uniform pieces so they cook evenly
- Don’t skip the initial cooking with water – it ensures tender carrots before glazing
- Watch the glaze carefully during the final minutes to prevent burning
- The glaze will thicken as it cools, so serve immediately for the best texture
- Taste and adjust sweetness or salt based on your preference
- If the glaze gets too thick, add a tablespoon of water to loosen it
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe (approximately 3/4 cup)
- Calories: 135
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 265mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg