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 trusty Instant Pot, are a delightful side dish that will elevate any meal.

Prepare to savor the natural sweetness of carrots enhanced by the rich brown sugar and butter flavors. Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that’s as easy to make as delicious.

Instant Pot Carrot Recipe
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Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots— 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! Enjoy this healthy and delicious carrot recipe tonight.

Every time I get a craving for sweet, flavorful carrots, I reach for my Instant Pot. This recipe is one of the easiest ways to cook up good-tasting carrots in next to no time. They are perfect for any meal with just a little bit of brown sugar and honey!

Carrots are a great addition to any meal but can get boring afterward. Brown sugar carrots offer a new twist on an old favorite. The brown sugar and cinnamon give the carrots a sweet taste, leaving your mouth watering for more!

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 BEANSand INSTANT POT BRUSSELS SPROUTS 

Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots

Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots are a side dish that transforms humble carrots into a culinary masterpiece. Your Instant Pot will work its magic in just a few minutes, turning these carrots into tender morsels bathed in a luscious, caramelized brown sugar glaze. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between the natural sweetness of carrots and the richness of brown sugar and butter, making it a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults.

The beauty of this dish lies not only in its simplicity but also in its ability to complement a wide range of main courses. Whether you’re serving up a Sunday roast, grilled chicken, or a vegetarian stir-fry, Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots add a touch of sweetness and elegance to your meal. So, fire up your Instant Pot and get ready to enjoy an effortless and irresistible side dish.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

You’ll adore this recipe for Brown Sugar Carrots for several fantastic reasons:

  • Incredible Flavor: These carrots are bathed in a luxurious brown sugar glaze that caramelizes as they cook, creating a sweet and savory flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.

  • Effortless Preparation: Thanks to the Instant Pot, this dish comes together with minimal effort. You’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

  • Tender Perfection: The Instant Pot works its magic by pressure-cooking the carrots to perfect tenderness. Say goodbye to overcooked or undercooked carrots!

  • Versatile Side Dish: These Brown Sugar Carrots pair wonderfully with a wide range of main courses, making them a versatile addition to your meal repertoire.

  • Balanced Sweetness: The sweetness from the brown sugar is beautifully balanced by the natural sweetness of the carrots, creating a harmonious and not overly sugary flavor.

  • Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will be tempted by these sweet carrots, making it a great way to encourage kids to eat their veggies.

  • Beautiful Presentation: The glossy glaze gives these carrots a gorgeous, caramelized appearance that elevates the visual appeal of your plate.

  • Holiday Favorite: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion, Brown Sugar Carrots are a beloved side dish that adds warmth and sweetness to your holiday feasts.

  • Quick and Efficient: With the Instant Pot, you can have this dish ready in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional cooking methods.

  • Customizable: Feel free to add your own twist by incorporating herbs, spices, or a hint of citrus zest for a unique flavor profile.

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors, ease of preparation, and adaptability, making it a standout side dish. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, these Brown Sugar Carrots will surely become a family favorite.

Ingredients Needed For Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots

These Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots require just a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a side dish that’s both sweet and savory. This recipe strikes the perfect balance with the natural sweetness of carrots, the rich depth of brown sugar, and the velvety richness of butter. Let’s look at these simple ingredients and how they combine to make a delightful and perfect side dish for any meal.

Ingredients Needed For Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable full recipe card at the bottom of this post, as well as the nutritional information.

  • Carrots (Baby or Whole): The star of the dish, these carrots provide natural sweetness and vibrant color. You can use baby or whole carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds.
  • Brown Sugar: This rich and caramel-flavored sugar will create a luscious glaze that coats the carrots, enhancing their sweetness.
  • Butter: Unsalted butter adds a velvety richness to the dish and helps create the glossy caramelized coating.
  • Water: A small amount is used to create steam and pressure in the Instant Pot, aiding the cooking process.
  • Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
  • Ground Cinnamon (Optional): For a warm, comforting spice, add a touch of ground cinnamon to complement the brown sugar glaze.

How to Make Brown Sugar Carrots In Instant Pot

Making apple butter in a pressure cooker, like the Instant Pot, is a streamlined process that delivers all the rich flavors of traditional apple butter in a fraction of the time. Here's a simple guide to making pressure cooker apple butter:

Here’s how to make Instant Pot Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots:

  1. Prep the Carrots: If using whole carrots, peel and slice them into rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. If using baby carrots, you can leave them whole.
  2. Instant Pot Setup: Place the metal trivet or a steamer basket in your Instant Pot. Pour in 1/4 cup of water.
  3. Add Carrots:  Place carrots on the trivet or steamer basket.
  4. Brown Sugar Layer: Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the carrots. You can sprinkle it over the brown sugar if you use ground cinnamon.
  5. Butter Topping: Cut the unsalted butter into small pieces and scatter them on the brown sugar.
  6. Season with Salt: Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
  7. Pressure Cook: 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.
  8. Quick Release: Once the cooking time is up, perform a quick pressure release by carefully turning the valve to the venting position to release the steam.
  9. Serve: Open the Instant Pot lid, and you’ll find perfectly cooked Brown Sugar Carrots coated in a sweet glaze. Transfer them to a serving dish, spooning the caramelized sauce from the Instant Pot over the top.
  10. Enjoy: Serve your cooked carrots hot as a delightful side dish that’s both sweet and savory.

These tender and flavorful Brown Sugar Carrots will be a hit at your dinner table, weeknight meal, or holiday meal. The Instant Pot makes the cooking process quick and efficient, allowing you to enjoy this delicious side dish in no time.

Instant Pot Carrot Recipe (1)

Recipe Variations

Elevate your Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots with these delightful recipe variations:

  • Honey Glazed Carrots: Add a drizzle of honey and brown sugar for a double dose of sweetness and a glossy finish.
  • Citrus Zest: Enhance the flavor profile by adding the zest of an orange or lemon. The citrusy aroma and tangy notes will brighten up the dish.
  • Fresh Herbs: Toss in fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill after cooking for freshness and color. Add a dash of lemon juice to the butter glaze.
  • Maple Syrup Twist: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a different depth of sweetness and a hint of maple flavor.
  • Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle toasted slivered almonds or chopped pecans over the glazed carrots for a delightful crunch and nutty aroma.
  • Ginger and Garlic Infusion: Add minced fresh ginger and garlic to the butter for an aromatic twist that pairs well with the sweetness.
  • Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the carrots before serving to balance the sweetness with a tangy kick.
  • Parmesan Cheese: After cooking, sprinkle grated cheese over the carrots for a savory and cheesy contrast.
  • Spiced Carrots: Experiment with warm spices like nutmeg, allspice, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a unique flavor profile.
  • Orange Juice: Replace part of the water with fresh orange juice for a zesty, citrusy note that complements the sweetness.
  • Roasted Garlic: Roast whole garlic cloves alongside the carrots and squeeze the caramelized garlic onto the carrots before serving.
  • Bacon Crumbles: For a savory twist, top your glazed carrots with crispy bacon crumbles for an irresistible combination of sweet and salty.

Mix and match these variations to suit your taste and create a customized side dish that perfectly complements your meal. With these creative ideas, your Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots will always bring something special.

air fryer honey roasted carrots

Pro Tips

Achieve the perfect Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots with these pro 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. If your carrot slices vary in thickness, some may become overcooked while others remain too firm.
  • Brown Sugar Quality: Use high-quality brown sugar for a richer and deeper caramel flavor. Dark brown sugar adds an extra layer of richness if you prefer.
  • Butter Temperature: Use cold butter cut into small pieces. This helps the butter melt gradually during cooking, evenly coating the carrots with the glaze.
  • Steaming Setup: Elevate the carrots using a metal trivet or a steamer basket to keep them above the water. This prevents the carrots from becoming waterlogged.
  • Quick Release: When cooking is up, perform a quick pressure release to prevent overcooking the carrots. They should be tender but not mushy.
  • 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. You can add more brown sugar or a dash of salt if needed.
  • 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.

By following these pro tips, you’ll master the art of making Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots, ensuring they turn out tender, flavorful, and visually stunning every time you prepare them as a delightful side dish.

Air Fryer Honey Carrots on a white plate with a gold fork and a white background

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. However, frozen carrots may release more moisture during cooking, affecting the glaze’s consistency.

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. It typically takes 10-15 minutes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure for this recipe.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? You can use salted butter, but be cautious about adding extra salt to the recipe. The salted butter may provide enough saltiness for the dish, so taste and adjust as needed.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?  While the carrots are best served fresh, you can make and reheat them gently in the microwave or stovetop. Remember that the glaze may thicken upon cooling, so you may need to add a splash of water or butter when reheating.

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. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level and consistency may vary.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe? While this recipe focuses on carrots, you can add other vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even butternut squash for a medley of roasted veggies with the same glaze.

Can I make this recipe vegan? To make this recipe vegan, substitute plant-based and dairy butter. Ensure that the brown sugar you use is also vegan-friendly.

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. White sugar will produce a different flavor, and coconut sugar will have a mild caramel note.

How to store leftover carrots: Let the pressure cooker carrots cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container. The cooked carrots should last for 2-3 days. You can reheat the carrots in a small saucepan, with melted butter, or in the air fryer.

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 Carrot Recipe

Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots

4.82 from 22 votes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 4 minutes
10 minutes
Total Time: 19 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings

Description

Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots— Mmmm, 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! Enjoy this healthy and delicious carrot recipe tonight.

Ingredients 

  • 2 bunches fresh carrots , , peeled and diced. (alternatively use a bag of baby carrots, 32 ounces)
  • 4 tablespoons butter, unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  • Place all of the ingredients into the Instant Pot.
  • Mix all of the ingredients so that the carrots have seasoned.
  • Then add the lid. Make sure it’s set to a sealed position.
  • Set the manual time for 4 minutes.
  • Let it naturally release when it’s done.
  • Then open the lid, mix everything.
  • Plate, serve and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Instant Pot Pressure Cooker, or Ninja Foodi Pressure Cooker

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 275kcalCarbohydrates: 43gProtein: 2gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 798mgPotassium: 584mgFiber: 5gSugar: 35gVitamin A: 28750IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 84mgIron: 1mg

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Instant Pot Brown Sugar Carrots (3)

How long do carrots last in the fridge

Carrots can last for several weeks in the fridge if stored properly. The key is to make sure they are kept dry, as excess moisture can lead to spoilage. It’s also important to trim off their leafy green tops before storing, as these can draw moisture and cause the carrots to go bad more quickly.

When it comes to how long they will last, this can vary depending on how old they were when purchased and how well they were stored before reaching your fridge. As a general guideline, whole carrots should last up to 2-3 months while pre-cut or peeled carrots tend to only last 1-2 weeks. While some slight wilting or discoloration may occur over time, you can tell if a carrot has gone bad if it becomes mushy or develops mold. It’s always best to use them sooner rather than later for optimal freshness and taste.