Glazed Carrots (Christmas & Thanksgiving Recipe): Sweet, Savory, and Irresistibly Simple

Last Updated on October 17, 2025 by Chef Josie

Few side dishes can rival the classic beauty and flavor of perfectly Glazed Carrots. Tender, caramelized, and kissed with honey and butter, these carrots strike that irresistible balance between sweet and savory. Whether they’re sitting beside a Thanksgiving turkey or a Christmas roast, they bring a warm, colorful touch to any holiday spread.

This recipe is a timeless favorite because it’s elegant yet effortless. Roasted to perfection, each carrot is coated in a silky honey glaze that enhances its natural sweetness while adding a hint of savory depth from herbs and spices. If you’re looking for easy Thanksgiving recipes or a simple yet impressive Christmas side dish, this Honey Glazed Carrot Recipe is a must-make addition to your holiday menu.

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Why You’ll Love These Glazed Carrots

• Sweet Meets Savory: The perfect balance of butter, honey, and seasonings.
• Easy and Elegant: Just a few ingredients and minimal prep time.
• Versatile: Ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy fall dinner.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Add your favorite herbs or spices for a personal twist.
• Picture-Perfect: Their glossy finish makes any holiday table shine.

Ingredient Breakdown

Carrots: Whole carrots or baby carrots both work. Choose firm, fresh ones for the best texture.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create that irresistible glossy glaze.
Honey: The star ingredient for sweetness and caramelization. Maple syrup can be substituted.
Brown Sugar (Optional): Enhances the honey’s sweetness and helps with browning.
Olive Oil: Ensures even roasting and prevents burning.
Salt and Pepper: Balance the sweetness and add depth.
Fresh Herbs (Thyme or Rosemary): Add a fragrant, savory touch that complements the glaze.
Optional Add-ins: A splash of Dijon mustard for a honey mustard glaze or a pinch of cinnamon for a spiced carrot variation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prep the Carrots:
   Peel and trim the carrots, leaving a bit of the green tops for presentation if desired.
3. Make the Glaze:
   In a small saucepan, melt butter with honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a drizzle of Dijon mustard.
4. Coat and Roast:
   Toss carrots in the honey butter mixture until well coated. Spread evenly on the baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and caramelized.
5. Finish and Serve:
   Remove from the oven and drizzle with any remaining glaze from the pan. Sprinkle with fresh herbs before serving warm.

Notes and Top Tips

• Uniform Size: Cut carrots evenly so they cook at the same rate.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give them space to caramelize instead of steaming.
• For a Glossier Finish: Brush extra honey butter over the carrots just before serving.
• Add a Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a sweet and spicy version.
• Make Ahead: Roast the carrots, then reheat in the oven with a drizzle of extra glaze before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

• Serve With: Roasted turkey, ham, chicken, or beef tenderloin. They also pair beautifully with mashed potatoes or stuffing.
• Variations:
  • Honey Roasted Potatoes and Carrots: Combine both on one sheet pan for a colorful, hearty side.
  • Honey Mustard Glazed Carrots: Add Dijon mustard to the glaze for tangy flavor.
  • Sweet and Spiced: Add a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg for a festive twist.
  • Citrus Glaze: Stir in a bit of orange juice or zest for brightness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm on a baking sheet at 350°F for 10–15 minutes, or reheat on the stovetop with a splash of butter or honey.

Conclusion

These Glazed Carrots bring elegance and warmth to any table — tender, buttery, and perfectly caramelized. Whether served with your Thanksgiving feast or Christmas roast, they’re the perfect example of how a simple dish can steal the spotlight.

Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below to share your favorite twist! And don’t forget to explore more Thanksgiving Recipes Side Dishes and Fall Dinner Ideas for your next cozy meal.

FAQs

1. Can I make glazed carrots ahead of time?
Yes! Roast the carrots ahead and store them in the fridge. Reheat gently with a little butter or honey before serving.

2. Can I use baby carrots instead of whole ones?
Absolutely. Baby carrots work perfectly — just adjust the cooking time to about 20 minutes.

3. How do I make them less sweet?
Reduce the honey and skip the brown sugar. The natural sweetness of carrots will still shine.

4. Can I make them on the stovetop?
Yes. Sauté carrots in the honey butter mixture over medium heat until tender and glazed, about 15–20 minutes.

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