Honey Glazed Baby Carrots: A Sweet 20-Minute Side Dish Everyone Will Love

The Perfect Sweet and Buttery Baby Carrots

There’s something irresistible about tender baby carrots glazed with honey and brown sugar. This simple side dish transforms ordinary baby carrots into a sweet, buttery delight that even the pickiest eaters will love. Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep work, these glazed baby carrots are perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts alike.

Why You’ll Love These Glazed Baby Carrots

• Quick preparation – Ready in just 20 minutes
• Simple ingredients – Uses pantry staples you likely already have
• Kid-friendly – The natural sweetness appeals to children
• One-pot recipe – Minimal cleanup required
• Versatile side dish – Pairs with virtually any main course

Ingredients for Perfect Honey Glazed Baby Carrots

• 1 (16 ounce) package baby carrots
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Strainer or colander
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

How to Make Sweet Glazed Baby Carrots

1. Place baby carrots in a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to medium and cook until carrots are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and carefully drain carrots in a strainer.
4. Return the empty pot to the stove over medium-low heat and add butter.
5. Once butter is melted, add honey and brown sugar, stirring until combined.
6. Return the drained carrots to the pot and gently toss to coat with the sweet glaze.
7. Season with salt and pepper, stirring to combine.
8. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly and coats the carrots evenly.
9. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Chef’s Tips for Perfect Baby Carrots

• Don’t overcook: Baby carrots should be tender but still have a slight bite to them.
• Uniform cooking: If some carrots are significantly larger than others, cut them in half lengthwise for even cooking.
• Flavor variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of orange juice to the glaze for different flavor profiles.
• Make ahead: These carrots reheat beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep.

Serving Suggestions for Glazed Baby Carrots

These sweet baby carrots pair wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham. They’re also a perfect addition to your holiday table, complementing turkey and all the traditional fixings. The sweet glaze makes them particularly appealing to children who might otherwise shy away from vegetables.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover glazed baby carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the glaze.

Nutrition Information

Why Baby Carrots Make the Perfect Side Dish

Baby carrots aren’t just convenient; they’re nutritional powerhouses packed with beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins. Their natural sweetness is enhanced by this simple glaze, creating a side dish that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight vegetable or a special holiday side, these honey-glazed baby carrots deliver incredible flavor with minimal effort.