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The simple combination of tender carrots, brown sugar, and warm cinnamon creates an irresistible side dish that transforms everyday canned carrots into a holiday-worthy vegetable. This 5-minute recipe proves that sometimes the most memorable dishes are the ones that require the least fuss.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
In my own kitchen, I've found this recipe to be a lifesaver during busy holiday preparations. Even vegetable-skeptical guests come back for seconds.
Essential Ingredient Selection
- Canned Sliced Carrots: Choose quality brands for best texture
- Brown Sugar: Dark or light both work, but dark adds more depth
- Butter: Real butter creates the perfect glaze
- Ground Cinnamon: Fresh, aromatic spice makes a difference
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the natural sweetness
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare carrots:
Drain canned carrots thoroughly to prevent diluting the glaze
Create glaze base:
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat until just bubbling
Add sweetness:
Stir in brown sugar and cinnamon until sugar begins to dissolve
Combine:
Gently fold in drained carrots, coating evenly with glaze
Finish:
Let carrots heat through while glaze thickens slightly
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You Must Know
Growing up, my grandmother always said that vegetables should be treated with as much care as the main course. This recipe proves her point - simple ingredients, handled with care, create something special.
Perfect Serving Suggestions
Pairs beautifully with roasted turkey or ham
Complements beef roasts perfectly
Excellent alongside pork chops
Makes a colorful addition to any holiday table
Through years of holiday hosting, I've found these glazed carrots add the perfect touch of color and sweetness to balance savory main dishes.
Quick Troubleshooting Guide
If glaze is too thin: Cook slightly longer to reduce
If too sweet: Add a tiny splash of lemon juice
If glaze separates: Whisk gently to recombine
These simple fixes have saved this dish more than once during busy holiday preparations.
Time-Saving Tips
Keep multiple cans of carrots in pantry for last-minute sides
Pre-measure spices and sugar for even faster prep
Clean skillet immediately while glaze is still warm
My busy holiday hosting days taught me that preparation and simplicity are key to stress-free entertaining.
Health Benefits
Carrots provide essential vitamin A
Natural sweetness satisfies dessert cravings
Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar
Butter adds necessary fat-soluble vitamins
While this is definitely a treat version of carrots, it still provides valuable nutrients.
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Professional Chef Tips
Watch the butter carefully to prevent browning
Add a tiny pinch of salt to enhance sweetness
Let stand 1-2 minutes before serving to set glaze
This recipe has saved countless holiday meals when time was running short, and it's become a year-round favorite for its simplicity and crowd-pleasing flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh carrots?
- Yes, but they'll need to be pre-cooked until tender. Canned carrots are used here for speed.
- → Can I make this ahead?
- Best served fresh and warm. Can be reheated gently, adding a little butter if needed.
- → Is this too sweet?
- Adjust brown sugar to taste. Start with less and add more if desired.
- → Can I add other spices?
- Nutmeg, ginger, or allspice work well with cinnamon. Add small amounts to taste.
- → Why use canned carrots?
- They're pre-cooked and tender, making this truly a 5-minute recipe. Fresh carrots take longer to cook.