• Ready in under 15 minutes
• Only 5 ingredients
• Restaurant-quality results at home
• Naturally gluten-free and easily made dairy-free

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 pound (450g) carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks (or baby carrots)
• 2 tablespoons (30g) butter (or plant-based butter)
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) cognac (or brandy)

Instructions

1. Prep the carrots: Cut larger carrots into even matchsticks so they cook uniformly. Baby carrots can be left whole or halved lengthwise.
2. Melt the butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until foamy.
3. Cook the carrots: Add the carrots and stir to coat them evenly in butter. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften but still have a slight bite.
4. Add sweetness: Sprinkle in the brown sugar and stir until it melts and coats the carrots, creating a light glaze.
5. Flambé with cognac: Remove the pan from the heat. Pour in the cognac, then return to the heat. Carefully light the cognac with a long match or lighter (stand back!). Let the flames burn off the alcohol for 1–2 minutes until they naturally extinguish. The carrots should now be perfectly tender with a glossy, candied finish.
6. Serve immediately: Season with a pinch of salt and fresh cracked pepper if desired. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for color.

Pro Tips from the Chef

• Safety first: Always keep a lid nearby when flambéing. If you prefer to skip the flame, simply simmer the cognac for an extra minute or two to cook off the alcohol.
• Make it ahead: Prep the carrots and even cook them up to the sugar step earlier in the day. Finish with the cognac right before serving.
• Variations: Add a pinch of cayenne for subtle heat, orange zest for brightness, or chopped toasted pecans for crunch.
• Pairings: These shine alongside prime rib, baked ham, roast chicken, or seared duck breast.

These Candied Cognac Carrots have been a favorite on our personal chef tables for years — simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for Christmas or Thanksgiving.