Easy Honey Glazed Carrots

Looking for a side dish that’s both sweet and savory, easy to make, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser? These Easy Honey Glazed Carrots are the perfect combination of rich caramelized flavor and tender texture. Whether you’re planning a festive holiday dinner or just want to jazz up a weeknight meal, this dish brings vibrant color and natural sweetness to your table in under 30 minutes.

Save

Why This Is the Best Honey Glazed Spiced Carrots Recipe

There’s something timeless about a dish that only needs a handful of simple ingredients yet tastes like a gourmet side. This sweet and savory honey glazed carrot recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet, salty, and buttery. Honey adds warmth and richness, while a touch of seasoning brings it all together. And best of all, it’s incredibly versatile—pair it with roasted meats, serve it at holiday feasts, or add it to your weekly rotation of healthy side dishes.

Ingredients for Easy Honey-Glazed Baby Carrots Recipe

To make this delicious side dish, you’ll need:

• 2 lbs baby carrots (or peeled and sliced regular carrots)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley, thyme, or a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor

You can also experiment with honey mustard glaze if you’re aiming for a bolder, tangier profile—just add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the glaze mixture.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

All you need is:

• A large saucepan or pot for boiling
• A skillet for glazing
• A colander
• A spoon or spatula

This simple setup makes it easy to prep even if you’re low on kitchen gadgets.

How to Make Honey Glazed Carrots (Step-by-Step)

1. Boil the carrots: Start by placing your baby carrots in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook until tender, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the glaze: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the honey and brown sugar until smooth and bubbly.
3. Glaze the carrots: Add the drained carrots to the skillet and toss them in the glaze, stirring often to coat evenly. Continue cooking for 5–7 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly and the carrots are well-coated.
4. Season and serve: Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.

Save

Tips for Perfect Honey Glazed Roasted Carrots

• Don’t overcook the carrots before glazing—they should be fork-tender but not mushy.
• Want more flavor? Try roasting the carrots instead of boiling. Toss them in olive oil and roast at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, then toss in the glaze.
• Add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or smoked paprika to give your glazed carrots a seasonal or smoky twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the glaze can lead to burning or bitterness. Keep it on medium heat and stir frequently.
• Using too much honey or sugar can make the dish overly sweet. Stick to the recommended amounts, and balance with a pinch of salt.
• Don’t skip seasoning. A little salt and pepper bring out the natural flavors.

Variations: Sauce for Carrots and Flavor Twists

Looking for more ways to enjoy this dish? Try these variations:

• Honey Mustard Glazed Carrots: Add 1 tsp of Dijon mustard to the glaze for a tangy twist.
• Maple Glazed Carrots: Swap honey for maple syrup for a deeper, earthy sweetness.
• Spicy Honey Carrots: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat.
• Garlic Herb Glaze: Add minced garlic and fresh thyme or rosemary for a savory profile.

What to Serve with Honey Roasted Potatoes and Carrots

These honey glazed roasted carrots pair wonderfully with dishes like:

• Creamy Tuscan Salmon
• Crunchy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks
• Slow Cooker Chicken, Potatoes & Green Beans
• Vegetable Casserole

Whether you’re making a cozy fall dinner or serving at Thanksgiving, this dish brings warmth to every plate.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make ahead: You can boil the carrots and prepare the glaze a day in advance. Reheat together on the stove before serving.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Save

Glazed Carrots FAQ

Can I use frozen carrots?
Yes, just adjust the cooking time slightly since frozen carrots may soften quicker.

Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely. Just swap the butter with a plant-based alternative like vegan butter or olive oil.

Can I roast the carrots instead?
Definitely. Roasting adds a caramelized flavor and works especially well for larger batches.

Final Thoughts: Bring This Sweet and Savory Side to the Table

These easy honey glazed carrots are more than just a side—they’re the perfect balance of sweetness, warmth, and color for any occasion. With a short ingredient list and quick prep time, they’re an effortless way to elevate your next dinner.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a cozy dinner for two, this sweet and savory honey glazed carrot recipe deserves a spot on your plate.

Print