Irresistible Cinnamon Glazed Carrots Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Aromatic cinnamon glazed carrots dance with sweet, earthy flavors that surprise even veggie skeptics.

My grandmother’s secret recipe always transformed ordinary root vegetables into something magical.

These tender orange beauties shine with a delightful caramelized coating that makes everyone smile.

Warm spices gently embrace sliced carrots, creating a side dish that feels like a comforting hug.

Seasonal ingredients blend perfectly to deliver a dish both simple and elegant.

Crisp yet soft carrots beckon you to savor each delectable bite.

You won’t believe how something so easy can taste incredibly sophisticated.

Questions People Ask About Cinnamon Glazed Carrots Recipe

• What makes this cinnamon glaze special?

The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a rich, warm flavor that transforms ordinary carrots into a delightful side dish. The glaze caramelizes slightly, giving the carrots a sweet and glossy finish that makes them irresistible.

• Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?

Absolutely! Baby carrots work perfectly in this recipe. They’ll cook quickly and absorb the cinnamon glaze beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may cook faster than whole carrots.

• Is this recipe considered healthy?

Yes! Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins. While the butter and brown sugar add some calories, this dish is still a nutritious way to enjoy vegetables with a touch of sweetness. It’s a great way to make vegetables more appealing, especially for kids.

• What herbs complement this carrot dish best?

Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh note that cuts through the sweetness of the glaze. Alternatively, a sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped chives can add a nice herbal touch to the dish.

Why Cinnamon Glazed Carrots Recipe Tastes So Good

• Boost Family Meal Appeal: These cinnamon glazed carrots transform an ordinary vegetable into a sweet and irresistible side dish that kids and adults will eagerly devour, making vegetable consumption a delightful experience.
• Quick Kitchen Magic: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, this recipe offers a speedy solution for busy home cooks wanting to create a delicious vegetable side without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Elevate Simple Ingredients: Using basic pantry staples like butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, this recipe proves you can turn humble carrots into a gourmet-style dish that looks and tastes impressive with minimal effort.
• Versatile Occasion Pleaser: Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or potluck events, these glazed carrots add a touch of elegance and warmth to any meal, making them a crowd-pleasing side dish.

Cinnamon Glazed Carrots Recipe Ingredient List

Main Ingredients:

• Carrots: Bright orange root vegetable that provides a sweet and tender foundation for the dish.

• Parsley: Fresh green herb that adds a vibrant color and light fresh finish to the glazed carrots.

Glaze and Seasoning Ingredients:

• Butter, Brown Sugar: Rich, creamy butter and deep caramel-like brown sugar create a luxurious and sweet glaze coating.

• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Salt: Warm spices that provide depth and complexity to the sweet glaze, with salt balancing the overall flavor profile.

• Vanilla Extract: Optional aromatic extract that adds a subtle sweet and complex undertone to the final dish.

How To Cook Cinnamon Glazed Carrots Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Carrots for Cooking

• Wash fresh carrots thoroughly
• Peel the carrots using a vegetable peeler
• Slice carrots into diagonal chunks for an elegant presentation
• Select a medium-sized pot for boiling

Step 2: Boil Carrots to Perfection

• Fill pot with water
• Add a pinch of salt to enhance flavor
• Bring water to a rolling boil
• Gently slide carrots into bubbling water
• Cook for 5-7 minutes until carrots are tender but still crisp
• Test doneness by piercing with a fork
• Drain carrots in a colander and set aside

Step 3: Create Magical Cinnamon Glaze

• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Salt
• Nutmeg
• Vanilla extract
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Step 4: Transform Carrots with Glaze

• Select a large skillet
• Melt butter over medium heat
• Sprinkle brown sugar into melted butter
• Add cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg
• Stir until ingredients blend into a smooth mixture
• Toss boiled carrots into glaze
• Coat carrots completely
• Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring gently
• Ensure carrots are glistening and evenly glazed

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

• Drizzle vanilla extract over glazed carrots
• Chop fresh parsley
• Sprinkle parsley on top for a vibrant touch
• Transfer to serving dish
• Serve immediately while warm
• Enjoy the sweet and spicy carrot masterpiece!

Best Tips For Cinnamon Glazed Carrots Recipe

• Prevent Overcooking Carrots: Boil carrots just until tender to maintain their crisp texture and vibrant orange color, checking doneness with a fork to avoid mushy results.
• Balance Glaze Sweetness: Adjust brown sugar quantity based on carrot sweetness and personal preference, tasting and adding gradually for perfect caramelization.
• Enhance Flavor Depth: Experiment with warming spices like ground ginger or cardamom to complement the cinnamon, creating a more complex and aromatic glaze.
• Customize for Dietary Needs: Swap butter with olive oil or coconut oil for vegan versions, ensuring the same rich, glossy coating and delicious taste.
• Add Textural Contrast: Sprinkle toasted pecans or sliced almonds on top for a delightful crunch that elevates the smooth, sweet glazed carrots.

Storing Cinnamon Glazed Carrots Recipe Easily

• Refrigerate leftover cinnamon glazed carrots in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Seal the container tightly to prevent moisture loss and preserve the delicious flavor.
• Gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water if the glaze seems dry.
• Avoid microwaving, as this can make the carrots tough and remove their lovely glossy texture.
• For best results, consume within 2-3 days to enjoy maximum taste and quality.
• The glaze might slightly separate during storage, so give the carrots a quick stir when reheating to redistribute the sweet cinnamon coating.

Pairing Suggestions For Cinnamon Glazed Carrots Recipe

• Pair with Roasted Protein: Complement the sweet cinnamon carrots with a savory roasted chicken, turkey, or pork tenderloin to balance the dish's sweetness and create a harmonious meal.
• Sip Matching Wine: Select a medium-bodied white wine like Gewürztraminer or Riesling, which have subtle spice notes that beautifully echo the cinnamon's warmth and enhance the carrots' natural sweetness.
• Embrace Hearty Side Companions: Serve alongside fluffy quinoa, wild rice pilaf, or creamy mashed potatoes to provide a satisfying textural contrast and complete the plate with additional nutritious elements.
• Craft a Rustic Beverage Pairing: Enjoy a spiced apple cider or a light amber ale that shares similar warm, autumnal flavor profiles, making the entire dining experience feel cozy and comforting.

Simple Swaps For Cinnamon Glazed Carrots Recipe

• Honey Maple Carrot Glaze: Swap brown sugar with a combination of honey and maple syrup for a rich, natural sweetness that complements the carrots' earthy flavor.
• Spicy Ginger Glazed Carrots: Add freshly grated ginger and a pinch of cayenne pepper to create a warm, slightly spicy version that tingles the taste buds.
• Roasted Herb Carrots: Instead of boiling, roast the carrots in the oven with olive oil and fresh thyme, then finish with a lighter cinnamon glaze for deeper caramelization.
• Orange Zest Cinnamon Carrots: Incorporate orange zest into the glaze for a bright, citrusy note that cuts through the sweetness and adds complexity to the dish.

Cinnamon Glazed Carrots Recipe

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4.8 from 22 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spicy-sweet cinnamon glazed carrots bring warmth from classic American kitchens to your dinner table. Golden carrot slices caramelize with buttery cinnamon glaze, creating a simple side dish that delights both family and guests.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Vegetables:

• 1 pound (454 grams) carrots, peeled and sliced (or baby carrots)

Sweeteners and Spices:

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Flavor Enhancers and Cooking Agents:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon water (if needed for steaming)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

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Instructions

1. Submerge whole carrots in rapidly bubbling water, allowing them to simmer for approximately 6 minutes until they reach a tender yet crisp consistency. Carefully drain and transfer to a waiting platter.
2. Select a spacious skillet and allow butter to melt gracefully over medium thermal intensity. Incorporate brown sugar, ground cinnamon, delicate salt, and warming nutmeg, stirring until the mixture transforms into a smooth, glistening liquid.
3. Gently introduce the prepared carrots into the aromatic glaze, ensuring each vegetable receives a luxurious coating. Rotate the carrots periodically, permitting them to absorb the rich, sweet essence for roughly 3 minutes.
4. Enhance the glaze with a whisper of vanilla extract, infusing an additional layer of complexity to the sauce. The liquid should develop a glossy, translucent appearance that clings elegantly to the carrots.
5. Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish, allowing the caramelized sugars to catch the light. Sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley across the top, introducing a vibrant green contrast to the amber-hued vegetables.
6. Present immediately while the carrots remain warm, inviting diners to savor the harmonious blend of sweet, spiced flavors and tender texture.

Notes

• Perfectly boil carrots by testing their tenderness with a fork, ensuring they remain slightly crisp and vibrant orange.
• Choose fresh, organic carrots for the best flavor and natural sweetness that complements the cinnamon glaze.
• Enhance the recipe’s versatility by substituting butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option or using maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a lower-refined sugar alternative.
• Create a nutrition boost by adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for extra crunch and healthy fats.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Side Dish
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 95
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 4 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg