Cinnamon-glazed carrots

Cinnamon-glazed carrots combine the sweetness of carrots with warm cinnamon for a delightful side dish. This simple recipe involves simmering carrots, then glazing them with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for added warmth and flavor.

02 Feb 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

4 cups carrots
1/2 cup water
2 tbsp butter
2 tsp brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon

Cinnamon-glazed carrots are a delightful and flavorful side dish that brings together the sweetness of carrots with the warm spices of cinnamon. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any time you want to add a touch of elegance to your meal, this recipe is both simple and delicious.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Carrots:
- Start by peeling the carrots and slicing them into evenly sized pieces, roughly 1/4 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly.

2. Cook the Carrots:
- Place the sliced carrots into a medium-sized saucepan.
- Add the 1/2 cup of water to the pan.

3. Simmer:
- Cover the saucepan with a lid and bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Let the carrots cook for about 10-15 minutes until they are tender but still slightly firm. You should be able to pierce them easily with a fork.

4. Drain:
- Once the carrots are cooked to your desired tenderness, drain any remaining water from the pan.

5. Add Butter and Brown Sugar:
- Return the saucepan with the drained carrots to the heat.
- Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the pan.
- Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of brown sugar over the carrots.

6. Glaze the Carrots:
- Continue to cook the carrots over medium heat, stirring gently.
- Allow the butter to melt and the sugar to dissolve, forming a glaze. Stir occasionally to ensure the carrots are evenly coated.

7. Add Cinnamon:
- Once the butter and sugar have formed a glaze, sprinkle 1 teaspoon of cinnamon over the carrots.
- Stir well to evenly distribute the cinnamon and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken slightly.

8. Serve:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and transfer the cinnamon-glazed carrots to a serving dish.
- Serve warm as a delightful side dish. Enjoy!

These cinnamon-glazed carrots are sure to be a hit at any dinner table. With their beautiful glaze and comforting flavors, they will complement a wide range of main dishes. Enjoy this easy and scrumptious side dish with your loved ones.

Cinnamon-glazed carrots FAQ:

How long should I simmer the carrots for optimal tenderness?

Simmer the carrots for about 10-15 minutes until they are tender but still slightly firm. You should be able to pierce them easily with a fork.

Can I prepare the cinnamon-glazed carrots in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the carrots in advance. Cook them as instructed, then let them cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

What can I substitute for brown sugar in this recipe?

You can substitute brown sugar with an equal amount of granulated sugar mixed with a little molasses, or use coconut sugar for a similar flavor profile.

What pan size is recommended for this recipe?

A medium-sized saucepan is ideal for this recipe. It should be large enough to hold 4 cups of sliced carrots and allow room for simmering.

How can I tell if the carrots are done cooking?

The carrots are done when they can be easily pierced with a fork but still hold their shape. Taste-testing a piece is also a great way to check for doneness!

Cooking Tips:

- You can use baby carrots for a more uniform appearance, but regular carrots can be cut into even-sized pieces for similar results.

- For an added touch of flavor, consider sprinkling a bit of nutmeg or adding a splash of orange juice during the cooking process.

- If you prefer a deeper caramelized flavor, allow the carrots to cook a bit longer until they are slightly browned.

- Make sure you don't overcook the carrots; they should be tender but still maintain a bit of bite.

- To make this dish vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 110kcal
Protein 1.21g
Carbohydrates 14g
Fiber 3.76g
Sugar 7g
Fat 6g

Cinnamon-glazed carrots