Honey-Glazed Carrots (Sweet, Buttery & Perfect for Holidays!)

These Honey-Glazed Carrots are the kind of side dish that instantly steals the spotlight — tender, glossy, and kissed with buttery sweetness. The honey caramelizes beautifully around the edges, giving each bite a warm, melt-in-your-mouth flavor that pairs perfectly with your favorite cozy mains.

They’re incredibly easy, ready in under 20 minutes, and perfect for any holiday or weeknight dinner. Serve them alongside hearty classics like your Classic Sage & Sausage Stuffing or a comforting Slow-Cooked Pork Roast. They also complement cozy favorites such as Crispy Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans Almondine to round out a beautiful holiday spread.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs carrots, peeled and sliced on the diagonal

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter

• 3 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for extra caramelization)

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp dried thyme or 1 tsp fresh thyme (optional)

• 1–2 tbsp water, if needed

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Carrots

Add sliced carrots to a large skillet and pour in just enough water to cover the bottom of the pan (about 1–2 tbsp). Cover and cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, or until the carrots begin to soften.

2. Make the Glaze

Remove the lid and add:

• butter

• honey

• brown sugar (if using)

• salt & pepper

• thyme (optional)

Stir gently as the butter melts and the glaze coats the carrots.

3. Caramelize

Increase the heat slightly and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the glaze thickens and becomes glossy. The carrots should be tender with the edges slightly caramelized.

4. Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Tips for Perfect Honey-Glazed Carrots

• Diagonal cuts cook evenly and look beautiful on the holiday table.

• Add ½ tsp cinnamon for a warm fall flavor.

• Mix in 1 tbsp orange juice for a citrus-honey glaze.

• If the glaze looks thin, keep cooking—it will thicken as the sugars caramelize.

FAQ

Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?

Yes! Baby carrots work perfectly. Just note that they may cook a little faster since they’re smaller and more uniform in size.

How do I make the glaze thicker?

Let the carrots simmer uncovered for the last few minutes. As the honey and butter reduce, the glaze becomes thicker and glossier.

Can I make honey-glazed carrots ahead of time?

Yes — cook the carrots fully, cool them, and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm gently on the stovetop with an extra splash of honey and butter to refresh the glaze.

Can I roast the carrots instead?

Absolutely. Toss sliced carrots with butter, honey, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway. They’ll caramelize even more.

What herbs go well with glazed carrots?

Thyme, rosemary, parsley, dill, and even a pinch of cinnamon all add beautiful flavor. Fresh herbs make the dish feel more festive.

How do I keep the carrots from overcooking?

Use medium heat and check frequently. Carrots should be fork-tender but not mushy. If the pan gets too hot, add 1–2 tbsp water to slow the cooking.

Do honey-glazed carrots reheat well?

They reheat beautifully. Warm them on the stovetop over low heat, or microwave in short intervals. Add a touch of butter if needed.

Final Thoughts

These Honey-Glazed Carrots prove that simple ingredients can create something truly special. With their tender bite, glossy finish, and rich honey-butter flavor, they’re a side dish you’ll reach for again and again. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or pulling together a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort — the kind of dependable, crowd-pleasing dish that always earns a spot at the table.