Brown Sugar Bourbon Carrots are equal parts indulgent and nutritious. Tender roasted carrots are coated in a rich bourbon glaze with a touch of smokiness and sweetness, balanced by fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just elevating a weeknight dinner, this recipe will turn simple carrots into a show-stopping side dish. Pair these carrots with some Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes for a showstopping dinner table!
Why You’ll Love Bourbon Glazed Carrots
This recipe showcases the natural sweetness of carrots, enhanced by a caramelized glaze made with melted butter, brown sugar, and bourbon. The bourbon not only adds depth but also introduces a subtle smokiness, making the dish irresistible. If bourbon isn’t your thing, substitutions like apple cider or maple syrup can provide a similarly delicious flavor profile.
Pro Tips for Perfect Carrots
- Choosing Carrots: Whole carrots work best, as their natural sugars caramelize beautifully when roasted. If you’re short on time, baby carrots are a great alternative—just check for doneness a little earlier.
- Glaze Consistency: For a perfectly sticky glaze, simmer the sauce until it thickens before tossing the carrots. If you find the sauce too thick after refrigeration, a splash of water while reheating will do the trick.
- Substitution Suggestions: No bourbon? No problem! Swap it with rum, brandy, or non-alcoholic options like apple cider or maple syrup.
Storing and Reheating
To keep your Bourbon Glazed Carrots fresh:
- Refrigeration: Allow the carrots to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Warm the carrots in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently. Add a small amount of water to loosen the glaze if necessary. A quick microwave reheat works as well—just stir midway to ensure even heating.
Final Touches
Serve these carrots alongside roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or a hearty grain dish for a balanced meal. Whether you’re using them as a holiday side dish or a simple dinner upgrade, Bourbon Glazed Carrots are sure to impress. With a few simple swaps, you can tailor the recipe to your taste, making it as versatile as it is delicious
Brown Sugar Bourbon Carrots
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds medium whole carrots peeled, with leafy tops trimmed to about 1–2 inches
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup (4 ounces) bourbon
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the carrots in a single layer in a large, shallow baking dish.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, bourbon, light brown sugar, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the carrots, making sure they are well coated. Spread them into an even layer.
- Roast the carrots for 45–55 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they stay coated in the sauce, until they are tender. Adjust the cooking time if needed based on the size of the carrots.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and transfer the carrots to a serving platter.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving.
This recipe is inspired by Bourbon Glazed Carrots from iamhomesteader.com
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