Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots

Indulge in the sweet and savory delight of Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots. These tender, caramelized carrot slices, cooked to perfection in your Instant Pot, are a delightful side dish that will elevate any meal.

I can almost taste these carrots. The sweet and tangy brown sugar glaze is perfect for a quick and easy side dish to any meal. This recipe takes less than 10 minutes to make in the Instant Pot! As a bonus, it’s vegan-friendly too!  

This recipe is easy enough for beginners and tastes good for those who have been cooking their whole life. Give it a try tonight! If you are looking for even more Instant Pot Vegetable Recipes, my favorites are INSTANT POT GREEN BEANS, and INSTANT POT BRUSSELS SPROUTS 

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Quick Cooking: This recipe is super quick, allowing you to prepare tender and flavorful carrots in just minutes with the Instant Pot.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of honey and brown sugar creates a delightful glaze that enhances the natural sweetness of the carrots.
• Healthy Side Dish: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, these carrots make a healthy addition to any meal without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Pairing: They pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes, making them a perfect side for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, this recipe is effortless to prepare, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks.

Ingredients Needed 

• Carrots (Baby or Whole): Carrots provide natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• Brown Sugar: Creates a luscious glaze that coats the carrots, enhancing their sweetness.
• Butter: Helps create the glossy caramelized coating.
• Water: Used to create steam and pressure in the Instant Pot.
• Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon (Optional): A touch to complement the brown sugar glaze.

How to Make Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots

Step One: If using whole carrots, peel and slice them into rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. If using baby carrots, you can leave them whole. Place the metal trivet or a steamer basket in your Instant Pot. Pour in 1/4 cup of water.

Step Two: Place carrots on the trivet or steamer basket. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the carrots. You can sprinkle it over the brown sugar if you use ground cinnamon. Cut the unsalted butter into small pieces and scatter them on the brown sugar. Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to the sealing position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual High Pressure” function and set the cooking time for baby carrots at 2 minutes at high pressure or 4 minutes for whole carrots. Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick pressure release by carefully turning the valve to the venting position to release the steam.

Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots Recipe Tips

• Fresh Carrots: While baby carrots are convenient, using fresh whole carrots that you peel and slice yourself often results in a better flavor and texture.
• Uniform Slices: Aim for uniform slices to ensure even cooking.
• Brown Sugar Quality: Use high-quality brown sugar for a richer and deeper caramel flavor.
• Butter Temperature: Use cold butter cut into small pieces.
• Steaming Setup: Elevate the carrots using a metal trivet or a steamer basket to keep them above the water.
• Quick Release: When cooking is up, perform a quick pressure release to prevent overcooking the carrots.
• Spoon the Glaze: After cooking, spoon the delicious brown sugar glaze over the carrots for extra flavor and sheen.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the carrots before serving and adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your preference.
• Fresh Herbs: If using fresh herbs, add them just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and flavor.
• Presentation: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color and freshness.
• Double the Recipe: This recipe is easy to double if serving a larger group. Just adjust the cook time accordingly.
• Customize Flavors: Don’t be afraid to experiment with additional flavors, like citrus zest, spices, or even a hot sauce, to make the dish your own.

Instant Pot Carrots Brown Sugar Faq’s

Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe? While fresh carrots are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen carrots in a pinch.

How long does it take for the Instant Pot to come to pressure for this recipe? The time it takes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure can vary depending on your model and the quantity of food inside.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover Brown Sugar Carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat as needed.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of brown sugar? You can experiment with other sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar for different flavor profiles.

Can I make this recipe vegan? To make this recipe vegan, substitute plant-based and dairy butter.

Can I use a different type of sugar, like white or coconut sugar? While brown sugar provides a distinctive caramel flavor, you can experiment with other sugars.

Can I double or halve the recipe easily? Yes, you can easily adjust the quantities to double or halve the recipe to suit your needs. Just be mindful of cooking times and adjust as necessary.

More Instant Pot Recipes

• INSTANT POT GREEN BEANS
• INSTANT POT BRUSSELS SPROUTS
• NINJA FOODI OR INSTANT POT SPAGHETTI SQUASH

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