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If you’re searching for a simple yet delicious side dish, look no further! Maple Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots bring a sweet and savory twist that will elevate any meal. In this post, I’ll share easy steps and tips to make perfect glazed carrots every time. Whether you’re cooking a family dinner or gearing up for a holiday feast, these carrots are sure to impress your guests. Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Sweet and Savory Combination: The blend of maple syrup and brown sugar creates a delightful sweetness that perfectly balances the natural earthiness of the carrots.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect side dish for busy weeknights or special occasions.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Carrots are packed with vitamins and minerals, making this dish a healthy addition to any meal while still being delicious.
- Beautiful Presentation: With its vibrant color and glossy glaze, this dish is not only tasty but also a stunning addition to your dinner table.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 lb baby carrots (or sliced regular carrots)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
The key to great Maple Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots lies in the ingredients. Start with fresh baby carrots. They are sweet, tender, and easy to cook. If you can’t find baby carrots, regular carrots work too—just slice them into even pieces.
Unsalted butter adds richness to the dish. It helps the carrots cook evenly and enhances the glaze. Pure maple syrup gives a deep, natural sweetness. It pairs perfectly with brown sugar, which adds a touch of caramel flavor.
Cinnamon brings warmth and spice. It complements the sweet glaze beautifully. Salt is important to balance the flavors. A touch of freshly cracked black pepper adds a mild kick.
Finally, fresh parsley is for garnish. It adds a pop of color and freshness. This dish not only tastes good but also looks great on your table.
With these simple ingredients, you can create a side dish that is both tasty and visually appealing. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Wash and peel the carrots if using regular carrots, or simply wash baby carrots.
– Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Cooking Steps
– Sauté carrots for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
– Combine maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
Finishing Touches
– Pour the glaze over the carrots, cover, and cook until tender.
– Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
To make these carrots shine, start by washing them well. If you use regular carrots, peel them for a smooth texture. Baby carrots only need a quick rinse. Melt the butter in your skillet over medium heat. As it melts, the rich aroma fills the air, setting the stage for your dish.
Next, toss in those carrots. Sauté them for about 5 minutes. You want them to soften just a bit but still have a nice bite. Stir them often to coat them in that lovely butter.
While the carrots cook, grab a small bowl. Combine maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper. This mix creates a sweet and spicy glaze. When the carrots are ready, pour this glaze over them. Stir to coat every carrot evenly.
Now, cover the skillet and lower the heat. Let the carrots cook for another 10 to 15 minutes. Stir them occasionally. You want them tender but not mushy. The glaze will thicken, creating a beautiful shine.
When they are done, take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top. This adds a bright color and a touch of freshness. Serve these carrots in a shallow bowl, drizzled with any remaining glaze. Enjoy this sweet and savory side dish!
Tips & Tricks
Expert Tips for Perfect Carrots
– Use fresh baby carrots for optimal flavor and texture. They are sweet and tender.
– Stir the carrots occasionally for even cooking. This helps them soften nicely.
Improving Flavor
– Experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth. A pinch can turn up the flavor.
– Try adding a little cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. It pairs well with the sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
– Pair these glazed carrots with roasted meats. They complement chicken, pork, or beef beautifully.
– Serve as a holiday side dish for a colorful plate. Their shine and sweetness bring joy to any meal.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Carrots: Fresh, vibrant carrots will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Look for firm, unblemished carrots for the best results.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of maple syrup and brown sugar based on your preference for sweetness. Start with less and add more if desired.
- Add a Pinch of Nutmeg: For an extra layer of warmth and flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the glaze mixture. It pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
- Caramelization is Key: Allow the carrots to cook undisturbed for a few minutes while covered to enable proper caramelization, which enhances the overall flavor.

Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can swap honey for maple syrup. This change gives a different sweetness. It can be fun to try! Another idea is to add a splash of orange juice. This adds a nice citrus twist. The bright flavor of orange pairs well with carrots.
Dietary Modifications
If you want a vegan dish, use coconut oil instead of butter. It gives a nice flavor and works well in the glaze. This change makes the dish plant-based and still tasty.
Different Cooking Methods
You can also cook these carrots in the oven. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness. If you want a faster method, use a pressure cooker. Pressure cooking gives a different texture and saves time.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After enjoying your maple brown sugar glazed carrots, store any leftovers wisely. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Remember to let them cool before sealing the container.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, warm them in a skillet. Use low heat to keep them tender. If they seem dry, add a splash of water. This will help restore the glaze’s shine and flavor.
Freezing Tips
If you want to save your glazed carrots for later, freezing is a great option. First, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This method helps prevent clumping. Your glazed carrots can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
FAQs
Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots. They save time and are easy to use. Just thaw them first. Drain any excess water before cooking. Use the same amount of glaze as fresh carrots. Cook them a bit longer, about 15 to 20 minutes, until tender. Check often to avoid overcooking.
What can I serve with Maple Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots?
These carrots pair well with many dishes. Serve them with roasted chicken or pork for a hearty meal. They also go great with grilled steak or fish. For a vegetarian option, serve with quinoa or a hearty salad. The sweet glaze balances well with savory flavors.
Can I double the recipe for a larger gathering?
Yes, you can double this recipe easily. Just use a larger skillet or two separate ones. Make sure to stir more often for even cooking. Keep an eye on the cooking time. They may need a bit longer to soften. Adjust the glaze as needed to coat all the carrots.
This blog post shared a simple recipe for maple brown sugar glazed carrots. You learned about the necessary ingredients and precise steps to achieve tender, sweet carrots. We discussed tips for the best results, variations to personalize your dish, and storage methods to keep leftovers fresh.
Incorporating these carrots into meals adds flavor and freshness. Enjoy exploring different ingredients and serving options. Your kitchen can create delicious moments for family and friend
Maple Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
A delicious side dish featuring tender carrots glazed with a sweet maple and brown sugar mixture.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 150 kcal
- 1 lb baby carrots (or sliced regular carrots)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- to taste freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Begin by washing and peeling the carrots if you're using regular carrots. If using baby carrots, simply wash them.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Once the butter has melted, add the carrots to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften.
In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and a few cracks of black pepper.
Pour this mixture over the carrots in the skillet. Stir well to coat all the carrots evenly.
Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Allow the carrots to cook for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and the glaze has thickened.
Once done, remove from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
Serve the glazed carrots in a shallow decorative bowl, placing them in a circular pattern. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the top and finish with a sprinkle of parsley for an elegant touch.
Keyword carrots, glazed, maple, sugar, vegetable
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