Maple-Glazed Baby Carrots with Honey
This delightful recipe transforms simple baby carrots into a sweet and savory side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of rich honey, buttery goodness, and the warm notes of brown sugar creates a glaze that enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots. This dish is not only incredibly easy to prepare—allowing you to simply toss everything into the microwave—but it is also a colorful addition to your table that the whole family will love. Enjoy these tender, flavorful carrots alongside your favorite protein for an effortless yet impressive meal.
4
Servings
55
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Baby Carrots
16 ounces (cleaned and trimmed)
Butter
1 tablespoon (cut into small pieces)
Light Brown Sugar
2 tablespoons (packed)
Honey
2 tablespoons (pure)
Cornstarch
2 teaspoons (for thickening)
Seasoning Salt
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
1
In a large microwave-safe dish, evenly combine the baby carrots, butter, light brown sugar, honey, cornstarch, and seasoning salt.
2
Cover the dish tightly with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
3
Microwave on high for 10 to 12 minutes, stopping halfway through to stir the mixture gently. Continue microwaving until the carrots are tender and fully cooked.
4
Once done, carefully remove the dish from the microwave (it will be hot!), give it a final stir, and let it sit for a couple of minutes to allow the glaze to thicken a bit before serving.
Nutrition Information
2g
Fat
9g
Carbs
0.25g
Protein
1g
Fiber
5.5g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Maple-Glazed Baby Carrots with Honey?
This is a sweet and savory vegetable side dish made by glazing tender baby carrots with a mixture of honey, butter, and brown sugar.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the primary cooking method for these carrots?
The primary cooking method is microwaving, which makes it a quick and easy preparation process.
Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?
Yes, you can use regular carrots, but you should peel them and cut them into 2-inch sticks or rounds to ensure even cooking.
How long does it take to microwave the carrots?
The carrots should be microwaved on high for 10 to 12 minutes.
What is the purpose of cornstarch in this recipe?
Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent to help create a rich, clingy glaze for the carrots.
Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?
While honey provides a specific flavor, you could use pure maple syrup as a substitute to maintain the glazed effect.
Is this carrot recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed (carrots, butter, sugar, honey, cornstarch, and seasoning salt), this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How many calories are in a serving of these glazed carrots?
There are approximately 55 calories per serving.
Why is it important to vent the dish while microwaving?
Venting allows steam to escape, which prevents pressure build-up and ensures the carrots cook through without becoming soggy.
Can I make this dish vegan?
To make it vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
Why do I need to stir the carrots halfway through cooking?
Stirring ensures that the glaze ingredients are well-distributed and that all the carrots cook evenly in the microwave.
What should I serve with these glazed carrots?
These carrots pair excellently with roasted chicken, grilled pork chops, or a holiday turkey dinner.
Can I add extra spices to the glaze?
Yes, you can add a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg to the glaze for additional warmth and depth of flavor.
How do I ensure the glaze thickens properly?
Letting the dish sit for a few minutes after microwaving allows the cornstarch to set and the glaze to thicken to the desired consistency.
Is there any fiber in this dish?
Yes, each serving contains approximately 1 gram of dietary fiber.
Can I use frozen baby carrots instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as they may release more moisture.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 2 grams of fat.
Are these carrots suitable for children?
Yes, children typically enjoy the sweet glaze and the soft, bite-sized nature of baby carrots.
What type of sugar is recommended for the recipe?
The recipe calls for light brown sugar, which adds a mild molasses flavor to the glaze.
Is there any cholesterol in this recipe?
The recipe data indicates null for cholesterol, though a small amount may be present from the butter.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes, adding toasted pecans or walnuts after cooking can provide a nice crunch to the dish.
What is the protein content in this side dish?
This dish is low in protein, with approximately 0.25 grams per serving.
Does this dish contain much sodium?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of seasoning salt for 4 servings, making it relatively low in sodium.
How much honey is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of pure honey.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, you can double the ingredients, but you should cook it in a larger dish and likely increase the microwave time.
What size should the butter be before adding it?
The butter should be cut into small pieces to help it melt and incorporate evenly into the glaze.
Is this a healthy side dish option?
With only 55 calories and 2g of fat, it is a lighter vegetable side, though it does contain added sugars.
How much sugar is in each serving?
Each serving contains approximately 5.5 grams of sugar.