Can I use baby carrots for this candied carrots recipe?

Yes, you can use baby carrots, though whole carrots sliced into rounds often provide a better flavor and texture. If using baby carrots, increase the initial simmering time by 2-3 minutes.

How do I keep the glaze from being too runny?

The key to a thick glaze in this candied carrots recipe is to ensure most of the water has evaporated before adding the butter and sugar. Cook the sugar and butter mixture over medium heat until it bubbles and reduces.

Can I make this candied carrots recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if the glaze has become too thick.

Candied carrots recipe: 7 Tips for the Best Glazed Side Dish

Name: The Best Brown Sugar Candied Carrots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup water; Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or fresh parsley for garnish

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb fresh carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup water
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Place the sliced carrots and 1/4 cup of water in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes until carrots are fork-tender.
Step 3: Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium to allow any remaining water to evaporate.
Step 4: Add the butter, brown sugar, and salt to the skillet with the carrots.
Step 5: Stir constantly for 3-5 minutes as the butter and sugar melt together to form a bubbling glaze.
Step 6: Continue cooking this candied carrots recipe until the sauce thickens and coats the carrots thoroughly.
Step 7: Remove from heat and serve immediately while the glaze is warm and glossy.

Notes

For a deeper flavor, use dark brown sugar. Ensure the water is fully evaporated before adding the sugar to get the thickest glaze.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 145 kcal
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 85mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 15mg