Cinnamon Glazed Carrots

Cinnamon Glazed Carrots are a simple yet elegant side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the warm, aromatic flavor of cinnamon and a touch of honey. This dish is a perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it an ideal accompaniment to any dinner or holiday meal. The glossy cinnamon glaze adds a rich, comforting flavor to the carrots, turning a basic vegetable into something truly special. With minimal ingredients and quick prep, these glazed carrots are sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cinnamon Glazed Carrots are incredibly easy to make yet pack a punch in flavor. The sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by the cinnamon, honey, and butter, creating a rich and satisfying side dish that pairs well with both casual and fancy meals. The glaze gives the carrots a beautiful shine, making them as visually appealing as they are delicious. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this dish adds a touch of warmth and sweetness that everyone will love.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound baby carrots (or regular carrots, peeled and cut into sticks)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup water

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, add the carrots and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the carrots are just tender. (If using baby carrots, the cooking time may be shorter.)
2. Drain the carrots and set them aside.
3. In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the honey, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper, and stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Add the cooked carrots back to the pan and toss them in the glaze, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let the carrots cook in the glaze for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly and the carrots are glazed.
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with a little extra cinnamon, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add nuts: For added texture, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the glazed carrots just before serving.
• Use brown sugar: If you prefer a deeper, molasses-like flavor, you can substitute honey with brown sugar in the glaze.
• Spices: For a spicier kick, try adding a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg along with the cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor profile.
• Citrus twist: A squeeze of orange juice or lemon zest can add a refreshing citrusy note to the dish, balancing the sweetness of the glaze.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover Cinnamon Glazed Carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, or reheat on the stovetop in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen carrots, but keep in mind that they may require a slightly longer cooking time. Be sure to drain them well before glazing.

2. Can I make these carrots ahead of time?

While these carrots are best served fresh, you can make them ahead of time and reheat them gently before serving. The glaze may need to be refreshed with a little more butter or honey.

3. What can I serve these cinnamon glazed carrots with?

These carrots pair wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef. They’re also great with hearty grains like quinoa or couscous.

4. Can I make this recipe with other vegetables?

Yes! You can use this cinnamon glaze on other vegetables like sweet potatoes, parsnips, or butternut squash for a similar flavor profile.

5. How do I know when the carrots are tender?

You can check the tenderness of the carrots by piercing them with a fork. They should be easily pierced but not mushy.

6. Can I use brown butter for extra flavor?

Yes, using browned butter adds a nutty depth to the dish and pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and honey glaze.

7. How can I make this dish vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply swap the butter for a plant-based butter or olive oil, and use maple syrup instead of honey for the glaze.

8. Can I add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick?

Yes, adding a pinch of cayenne pepper will give the dish a subtle heat that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the carrots and glaze.

9. What if I want a thicker glaze?

If you prefer a thicker glaze, let the sauce simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to reduce and thicken before adding the carrots.

10. Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?

Absolutely! Just peel and cut regular carrots into sticks or rounds, and cook them as you would baby carrots.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Glazed Carrots are a simple yet delicious side dish that takes carrots to the next level. The sweet, buttery cinnamon glaze makes each bite irresistible, and the dish is so easy to prepare, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a special holiday meal, these glazed carrots are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With their comforting flavors and vibrant color, they’ll be a hit on any dinner table!

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