Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots

Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are the perfect side dish that transforms simple baby carrots into something special for busy weeknight dinners and holiday meals. What I love most about this recipe is how it takes just six ingredients and about 20 minutes to create carrots that taste like they came from a fancy restaurant. The sweet brown sugar and honey glaze makes even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds, and it’s simple enough that kids can help stir while you prep the rest of dinner.

Photos updated September 2025.

Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots

These Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are an absolute must-have for your Thanksgiving table. While everyone’s focused on the turkey and stuffing, this simple side dish quietly steals the show with its beautiful caramelized glaze and sweet flavor that complements all those savory dishes perfectly.

If you want to make a glazed carrots recipe that uses a different cooking method, try Slow Cooker Carrots or Oven Roasted Glazed Carrots. You can check out all of our cooked carrots recipes for more ideas.

I’ve served these candied carrots with so many meals. They’re one of my go-tos during the holiday season. I usually make them and my easy parmesan garlic corn for two simple side dishes!

When I’m making carrots, I prefer to use baby carrots. It saves on prep time. You can make this recipe with whole carrots too. If you do use whole carrots, you will need to wash and peel them. I like to use a Y shaped Peeler because I think it’s easier to peel with! If you haven’t tried one, I highly recommend it!

If you use whole carrots you’ll want to slice them or chop them into similar sized pieces so they cook evenly.

But to save time, baby carrots help save a few minutes! Sometimes a few minutes makes all the difference!

Ingredients & Equipment

• Baby carrots
• Butter
• Light brown sugar
• Honey
• Allspice
• Water

Full measurements for each ingredient can be found in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

You’ll also need a few things from your kitchen:

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Step By Step Directions

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes 5 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cook time.

Step 1. Heat a skillet on medium-high heat. Add the butter, brown sugar, honey, allspice, and water to the pan.

Step 2. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.

Step 3. Add the carrots and mix to coat. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4. Once carrots are tender, continue to heat until glaze thickens (5-10 minutes).

Step 5. Serve immediately.

Variations

• Use pumpkin pie spice instead of allspice for a fall-inspired flavor.
• Try whole carrots cut into uniform pieces instead of baby carrots.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
• Sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary for an herby twist.
• Add a dash of vanilla extract to the glaze for depth.
• Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.

Leftovers & Storage

Store leftover glazed carrots in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to refresh the glaze. These carrots actually taste even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t skip bringing the glaze to a boil first. This helps the sugar dissolve completely.
• Stir occasionally but not constantly to prevent the glaze from burning.
• Choose baby carrots that are similar in size for even cooking.
• If your glaze gets too thick, add a tablespoon of water and stir.
• Test carrot tenderness with a fork. They should be tender but not mushy
• The glaze will thicken as it cools, so serve immediately for the best texture.
• You can double the recipe easily for larger gatherings.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?

Yes! Just cut them into uniform pieces about the same size as baby carrots so they cook evenly. I usually slice them on the diagonal for a prettier presentation.

What if I don’t have allspice?

Pumpkin pie spice works perfectly as a substitute and gives you a very similar warm, sweet flavor. You could also use a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Can I make these ahead of time?

These are best served fresh, but you can prep the carrots and have the glaze ingredients measured ahead of time. The actual cooking only takes about 15 minutes.

How do I know when the glaze is thick enough?

The glaze should coat the back of a spoon and cling to the carrots. It will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just use a larger skillet to make sure the carrots cook evenly. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What should I serve these with?

These glazed carrots pair perfectly with roasted chicken, turkey, pork chops, or any main dish that needs a sweet side. They’re especially great for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.

More Easy Side Dishes

• Crockpot Corn Casserole
• Crockpot Sweet Potato Casserole
• 5 Ingredient Fried Corn
• Baked Velveeta Mac and Cheese
• Air Fryer Green Beans