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Brown Sugar Bourbon Glazed Carrots – Easy 30-Minute Lighter Side

brown sugar bourbon glazed carrots - featured image

These brown sugar bourbon glazed carrots are roasted to tender perfection with a caramelized bourbon glaze. Quick, easy, and lighter than traditional stovetop versions, they’re perfect for weeknights or holiday dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into 3-inch sticks (about 450g)
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon (30ml)
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar (30g)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (14g)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (15ml)
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt (3g)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (1g)
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (about ⅛ teaspoon)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  2. Prepare the carrots: Peel 1 pound of carrots and trim off the tops and bottoms. Cut them into 3-inch sticks, about ½ inch thick, roughly the same size for even cooking.
  3. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons bourbon, 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon olive oil, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved.
  4. Toss the carrots: Place the carrot sticks on the prepared baking sheet. Pour the glaze over them and toss with your hands or a spatula until every piece is well-coated. Spread them out in a single layer.
  5. Roast for 20-25 minutes: Roast for 10 minutes, then remove the sheet and toss the carrots with a spatula. Return to the oven and roast for another 10-15 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork and edges are caramelized and golden-brown.
  6. Optional: For extra caramelization, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  7. Garnish and serve: Transfer the carrots to a serving platter. Sprinkle with fresh thyme or parsley if using. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Cut carrots evenly for uniform cooking. Don’t skip tossing halfway through to prevent burning. Watch the broiler closely if using. Line the pan for easy cleanup. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with apple cider or apple juice plus a drop of vanilla extract. For dairy-free, use coconut oil or vegan butter. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown sugar bourbon glazed carrots, roasted carrots, bourbon carrots, easy side dish, 30-minute recipe, holiday side, gluten-free, vegetarian