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Best Easy Brown Sugar Bourbon Glazed Carrots Recipe

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These brown sugar bourbon glazed carrots are a quick and easy side dish that looks fancy enough for holidays but is simple enough for weeknights. The bourbon adds warmth and depth, while the brown sugar and butter create a glossy, irresistible glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs carrots, peeled and cut into 3-inch sticks
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 3 tablespoons bourbon
  • ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 4–5 sprigs fresh thyme (optional but recommended)
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prep the carrots: Peel the carrots and trim off the tops and tips. Cut them into 3-inch sticks, about the size of thick french fries. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly.
  2. Heat the pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter. Let it melt and start to foam, but do not let it brown.
  3. Sear the carrots: Add the carrot sticks in a single layer if possible (work in batches if needed). Let them cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until the bottoms are deep golden brown. Flip them and cook another 3-4 minutes until caramelized.
  4. Add the bourbon: Carefully pour the bourbon into the pan. It will sizzle and steam. Stir the carrots to coat them evenly and let the alcohol cook off for about 30-60 seconds.
  5. Add the brown sugar and seasonings: Sprinkle the brown sugar over the carrots, along with the salt and pepper. Add the thyme sprigs if using. Stir everything together until the sugar dissolves and forms a glossy glaze. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the carrots are tender but still have a slight bite.
  6. Finish and serve: Remove the thyme sprigs. Taste a carrot and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t skip the sear—it creates a caramelized exterior that makes the glaze stick. Watch your heat; once you add the brown sugar, turn it down to medium-low to prevent burning. Cut carrots uniformly for even cooking. Use a good bourbon (mid-range like Bulleit or Maker’s Mark). If the glaze seems too thin, let it simmer for another minute without stirring. If too thick, add a tablespoon of water or chicken broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown sugar bourbon glazed carrots, glazed carrots, bourbon carrots, easy side dish, holiday side dish, carrot recipe

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/best-easy-brown-sugar-bourbon-glazed-carrots-recipe/