There’s just something magical about how a humble carrot can transform when given a simple sweet upgrade and a quick roast in the oven. Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots are the sort of vegetable side dish that instantly wins everyone over with their caramelized edges, hints of cinnamon, and glossy finish. This is a recipe you’ll find yourself turning to again and again, whether it’s for a festive holiday spread or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes these Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots truly irresistible is how each ingredient does its part to create the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spiced notes. Nothing fussy or complicated—just a handful of kitchen staples working in harmony to let the carrots shine.
- Carrots: Pick firm, fresh carrots for the best color and flavor—you can slice them into coins or sticks for even roasting.
- Olive oil: A light coating helps the carrots roast to golden perfection without drying out.
- Brown sugar: Whether you choose light or dark, this ingredient melts into a glorious glaze that contrasts beautifully with the natural sweetness of carrots.
- Salt: Just the right amount wakes up the flavors and keeps the brown sugar glaze from becoming cloying.
- Black pepper: Adds a light touch of heat that balances the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon (optional): This warm spice is optional, but a hint takes these carrots in a delightfully festive direction—try it for holiday meals!
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Bright green flecks not only look beautiful, but also add a burst of freshness right before serving.
How to Make Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots
Step 1: Prep the Carrots
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light spray of oil for easy cleanup. Peel your carrots and cut them into evenly-sized sticks or thick coins, so they cook at the same rate. Spread them out on a cutting board to admire that gorgeous orange color—soon to be deepened and caramelized!
Step 2: Toss with Flavor
In a large bowl, add your sliced carrots, olive oil, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon if you’re using it. Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, mix everything together until each piece of carrot is nicely coated with the glossy mixture. This is where the magic starts—the brown sugar and olive oil will merge to make a sweet, sticky, irresistible glaze as the carrots roast.
Step 3: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Transfer the coated carrots onto your prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in an even single layer. If you overcrowd the pan, they’ll steam instead of roast, so give them a little breathing room! This encourages those delicious caramelized edges to develop.
Step 4: Roast to Perfection
Slide the tray into your hot oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes, giving them a gentle stir halfway through. You’re looking for carrots that are tender with golden-brown edges and a shiny, sweet coating. The aroma will have everyone wandering into the kitchen, asking, “What smells so good?”
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
When your Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots emerge from the oven, sprinkle them with a handful of freshly chopped parsley. This not only adds a pop of color, but the fresh herbs are a lovely contrast to the deep, sweet caramelization. Serve warm and watch them disappear!
How to Serve Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of finishing touches! Aside from classic chopped parsley, try a scattering of toasted pecans, a final drizzle of maple syrup, or even a shave of lemon zest for brightness. If you want an extra festive twist, a quick balsamic glaze right before serving enhances the sweet tang and makes Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots sparkle on the plate.
Side Dishes
These carrots are incredibly versatile on the dinner table. Pair them with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or your favorite holiday main dish. Their sweet-savory profile slots in beautifully next to mashed potatoes, herby grains, or even a simple green salad, creating a balanced and colorful spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Let your Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots make a splash! Serve them on a rustic platter sprinkled with jewel-toned pomegranate seeds, or stack them neatly for an elegant side at a dinner party. For easy family-style meals, pile them high on a wooden board surrounded by other roasted veggies. They’re also fantastic tossed into a warm grain salad with feta cheese and walnuts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store cooled Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They hold their flavor and texture well, making them ideal for meal prep or quick school lunches.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the carrots after they’re roasted. Spread them out on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They may lose a little firmness after thawing, but the sweet glaze and flavor are still there! Use within 2 months for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply spread the Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them in short bursts, though the oven helps restore their roasted edges. If needed, add a touch of olive oil to restore shine.
FAQs
Can I use baby carrots instead of regular carrots?
Absolutely! Baby carrots work as a quick and convenient swap. Just keep in mind that they may take a few minutes less to roast, so start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark.
Is the cinnamon necessary?
Cinnamon is totally optional but recommended if you’re looking for a hint of warm, cozy spice—especially for autumn or holiday meals. If you prefer a purely sweet-and-savory flavor, you can simply leave it out.
What’s the best way to cut the carrots for this recipe?
You have options! Coins, sticks, or even diagonals all work. The most important thing is to keep the size consistent so the Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots cook evenly and caramelize perfectly.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, and you should! Just use two baking sheets and rotate them halfway through roasting so every carrot gets its moment with the oven heat. A double batch makes holidays and potlucks a breeze.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
This side dish is already vegan as written! No butter or honey here—just olive oil, brown sugar, and classic seasonings. It’s a crowd-pleaser for all diets.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to win over even the most skeptical veggie eaters, Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots are your new secret weapon. They’re simple enough for any night but special enough to deserve a spot on your holiday table. Give them a try and prepare to fall in love with carrots all over again!
Print
Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
These Roasted Brown Sugar Carrots are a delightful side dish featuring tender carrots caramelized with brown sugar and a hint of cinnamon. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, these carrots make the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds carrots (peeled and cut into sticks or coins)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional:
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
- Coat Carrots: In a large bowl, toss the carrots with olive oil, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and cinnamon if desired.
- Roast Carrots: Spread the seasoned carrots on the baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until caramelized and tender.
- Final Touch: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, consider drizzling maple syrup or balsamic glaze over the carrots before serving.
- If using baby carrots, adjust the roasting time accordingly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
