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Perfect Brown Sugar Bourbon Glazed Carrots for Fall

brown sugar bourbon glazed carrots - featured image

Tender carrots coated in a sweet, buttery bourbon glaze with warm fall spices. This quick and easy side dish is perfect for weeknights or holiday feasts, bringing comfort and nostalgia to any table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the carrots: Peel and cut into 2-inch pieces. Pat dry with a paper towel.
  2. Start the glaze base: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Let it melt until it stops foaming and smells nutty, about 2 minutes.
  3. Add the brown sugar: Sprinkle evenly over the melted butter and stir until dissolved and bubbling, about 1 minute.
  4. Pour in the bourbon: Carefully add the bourbon, stir until smooth and glossy, and let bubble for 30 seconds.
  5. Season the glaze: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, cinnamon (if using), and nutmeg. Stir to combine.
  6. Add the carrots: Place carrot pieces in a single layer in the skillet. Use tongs to coat each piece in the glaze.
  7. Cook the carrots: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
  8. Check for doneness: Carrots should be tender but still have a little bite. If too firm, cook 2-3 more minutes; if too soft, remove lid and let glaze reduce.
  9. Finish and serve: Remove lid, increase heat to medium, and let glaze bubble and reduce for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. Transfer to a serving dish, spoon remaining glaze over top, and garnish with parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, dry carrots thoroughly before cooking to ensure proper caramelization. Watch heat carefully to prevent burning the brown sugar. Use room temperature butter for even melting. Double the glaze ingredients for extra sauce. Serve immediately for optimal texture.

Nutrition

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