Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots Recipe

If you’ve been hunting for your new favorite easy side dish, let me introduce you to Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots! These irresistibly sweet and buttery carrots are kissed with cinnamon and roasted until they’re caramelized and just begging to be devoured. Whether you’re making a simple weeknight dinner or setting the holiday table, this is one dish that always gets rave reviews.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how just a few simple ingredients can transform humble carrots into something spectacular. Each item here adds a crucial layer—sweetness, warmth, or pure buttery goodness—that makes these carrots the best you’ll ever taste.

• Baby carrots (1 ½ lbs): They roast up beautifully and are ready straight from the bag, but feel free to slice regular carrots if you prefer rustic charm or larger pieces.
• Salted butter (¼ cup, melted): The rich, creamy base ensures every bite is ultra-luxurious and helps the sugar really cling to the carrots.
• Brown sugar (⅓ cup): Brown sugar is the secret to that glossy caramelization—its molasses undertones pair perfectly with earthy carrots.
• Cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds cozy, fragrant warmth and makes these carrots aromatic and inviting, almost dessert-like!
• Salt (½ tsp): Balances out the sweetness and highlights all the other vibrant flavors in the mix.

Variations

This Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots recipe is the definition of flexible—there are countless tasty tweaks you can try! Customize it for your crew’s cravings, dietary needs, or whatever you already have on hand.

• Maple Elevated: Swap brown sugar for pure maple syrup for a deep, woodsy sweetness that’s irresistible with the cinnamon.
• Warm Spice Twist: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for more depth and a little gourmet holiday flair.
• Dairy-Free: Use a vegan butter or a splash of olive oil to make this easy side completely plant-based—still just as dreamy!
• Herby Finish: Toss finished carrots with fresh thyme or parsley for color and an herby pop that brightens each bite.

How to Make Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots

Step 1: Prep Your Sheet Pan

Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This little step makes cleanup a breeze and helps prevent the sweet caramel coating from sticking—trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

Step 2: Make the Caramel Glaze

Melt your salted butter and pour it into a big mixing bowl. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir it all together until it forms a glistening, aromatic glaze—this is what turns simple carrots into something magical!

Step 3: Coat the Carrots

Pat the baby carrots dry (moisture can keep them from roasting up caramelized), then toss them into the bowl with your warm butter mixture. Use a big spoon or your hands to coat every carrot from tip to tip—they should all be glossy and cinnamon-kissed.

Step 4: Spread and Roast

Lay out the carrots in a single, even layer, making sure they’re not overlapping—air circulation is key for that beautiful roasted finish. Slide the sheet into the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are caramelized and a fork glides through easily.

How to Serve Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots

Garnishes

For the finishing touch, sprinkle your Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots with a scatter of chopped fresh parsley for color, or try toasted pecans for a nutty crunch. A light dusting of flaky sea salt right before serving can also really make the flavors pop.

Side Dishes

These carrots are the ultimate side for classic mains like roast chicken, glazed ham, or grilled salmon. They also shine next to macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, or wild rice pilaf for an unforgettable comfort food spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots stacked high on a fancy platter for a wow-worthy holiday centerpiece, or pile them in a rustic bowl for a homestyle vibe. For parties, skewer individual carrots with pretty toothpicks for a fun, kid-friendly finger food!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots are honestly a treat—just let them cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They keep their sweet, glossy flavor and make for quick reheating all week long!

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, these carrots freeze surprisingly well. Spread cooled carrots on a tray to freeze individually before transferring to a zip-top bag—this keeps them from sticking together. Use within 2 months for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to restore their irresistible caramelized finish. For a quick shortcut, the microwave works too, though the edges won’t get quite as crisp. Add a fresh dab of butter if desired before serving!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to welcome these Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots into your own kitchen—they turn the everyday carrot into something truly memorable. Whether for a big celebration or an easy family dinner, this recipe brings cheers every time. Give them a try and watch as everyone reaches for seconds!

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