Can I prepare Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots ahead of time?

Yes! You can peel, slice, and store the carrots in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance. The glaze can also be mixed ahead of time. When you’re ready to cook, just toss the carrots in the glaze and roast. This make-ahead option is perfect for reducing stress during holiday prep.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely. Simply substitute maple syrup for honey in the glaze. The result will still be sticky-sweet and caramelized with a hint of smokiness from the maple syrup. Make sure the rest of your ingredients, including any toppings, are also plant-based to keep the dish fully vegan.

How do I prevent the carrots from burning while roasting?

To avoid burning, be sure to: Use larger, evenly cut carrots Stir the carrots once or twice during the roasting process Add the brown sugar halfway through cooking , not at the start — this prevents early caramelization that can lead to burnt spots. Additionally, keep an eye on your oven, as temperatures can vary. Using parchment paper or a non-stick pan can also help reduce burning.

Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots – Easy Recipe

Name: Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds carrots: peeled and halved lengthwise for even roasting; 2 tablespoons olive oil: helps the glaze stick and promotes caramelization; 2 tablespoons honey: adds natural sweetness and sticky texture; 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar: balances the sweetness with a tangy note; 1 teaspoon kosher salt: enhances the overall flavor; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: provides a warm, seasonal spice; 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: adds subtle heat to balance the sweet; 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (finely chopped): adds an earthy, herbaceous flavor; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped): adds freshness and color; 3 tablespoons brown sugar: sprinkled mid-roast for caramelized richness; Optional garnish – pomegranate seeds: for a tart, juicy pop; Optional garnish – chopped walnuts or pecans: for added crunch

Description

These Brown Sugar Honey Glazed Carrots are oven-roasted to perfection with a sweet and savory glaze made from honey, brown sugar, fresh herbs, and warm spices. Perfect as a holiday side or weeknight veggie upgrade, they deliver rich caramelized flavor with minimal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds carrots: peeled and halved lengthwise for even roasting
2 tablespoons olive oil: helps the glaze stick and promotes caramelization
2 tablespoons honey: adds natural sweetness and sticky texture
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar: balances the sweetness with a tangy note
1 teaspoon kosher salt: enhances the overall flavor
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: provides a warm, seasonal spice
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: adds subtle heat to balance the sweet
2 teaspoons fresh thyme (finely chopped): adds an earthy, herbaceous flavor
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped): adds freshness and color
3 tablespoons brown sugar: sprinkled mid-roast for caramelized richness
Optional garnish – pomegranate seeds: for a tart, juicy pop
Optional garnish – chopped walnuts or pecans: for added crunch

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Wash, peel, and trim the carrots, cutting them in half lengthwise.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, cinnamon, black pepper, thyme, and parsley.
Toss the carrots in the glaze mixture until evenly coated.
Arrange the glazed carrots in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
Roast in the oven for 20 minutes, stirring once or twice for even cooking and to prevent burning.
Remove from the oven and sprinkle the brown sugar over the carrots. Toss gently to coat.
Return to the oven and roast for another 15–20 minutes, or until carrots are fork-tender and edges are caramelized.
Serve warm, optionally garnished with pomegranate seeds, more parsley, or chopped nuts.

Notes

Use large, evenly-sized carrots for best results and uniform cooking.
Add brown sugar midway through roasting to avoid burning the glaze.
For a vegan version, substitute honey with maple syrup.
Microwave thick honey for 10–15 seconds to make it easier to mix.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Do not freeze.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Oven
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 3–4 carrots
Calories: 166
Sugar: 18.7 g
Sodium: 376.4 mg
Fat: 6.1 g
Saturated Fat: 1.1 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4.7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 28.5 g
Fiber: 5.3 g
Protein: 1.8 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg