Are you craving something sweet and indulgent? Look no further! Brown sugar, with its rich, caramel-like flavor, is the perfect ingredient to satisfy your sweet tooth. From classic desserts like peach cobbler and pumpkin spice latte, to savory dishes like glazed ham and roasted carrots, brown sugar adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of brown sugar. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and indulgent or looking for a new twist on a classic dish, these recipes are sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon
This recipe elevates salmon to new heights with a rich brown sugar glaze that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With only 6 ingredients, it’s also incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each fillet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 4
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Rolls
Start your day off right with these soft, gooey, and utterly delicious brown sugar cinnamon rolls. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt to the mixture. Mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add flour to form a sticky dough.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Spread with remaining brown sugar and cinnamon mixture, leaving a 1-inch border.
7. Roll up tightly and cut into 8-10 equal pieces.
8. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each roll.
Cooking Time:
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Brown Sugar Banana Bread
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of brown sugar, creating a moist and delicious bread that’s perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Brown Sugar Baked Beans
Transform classic baked beans into a sweet and tangy masterpiece with the addition of brown sugar. This simple recipe is perfect for your next BBQ or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or baking dish, combine soaked navy beans, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ground mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the bean mixture.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender.
5. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize the top.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Brown Sugar Pecan Pie
This classic Southern dessert combines the warmth of brown sugar with the crunch of pecans, creating a rich and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Stir in pecans and salt.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the pecan mixture.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Brown Sugar Meatloaf
A twist on the classic meatloaf, this recipe adds a rich brown sugar glaze to create a sweet and savory dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp brown sugar (for glaze)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and dried oregano. Spoon the glaze over the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the brown sugar glaze (1 tbsp brown sugar) evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Brown Sugar Oatmeal Cookies
A classic cookie recipe that combines the warmth of brown sugar with the comforting texture of oatmeal, perfect for a cozy treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together brown sugar and butter until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet impressive recipe that brings out the natural sweetness of carrots. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be rewarded with caramelized, sticky, and irresistibly flavorful carrots.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, brown sugar, cumin (if using), salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the carrot mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Sugar Barbecue Chicken
This classic recipe combines the rich flavors of brown sugar, barbecue sauce, and chicken breasts to create a mouthwatering dish perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep time and a short cooking time, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, barbecue sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Spoon the brown sugar mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brown Sugar Apple Crisp
This classic dessert combines tender apples, crunchy oat topping, and the sweetness of brown sugar. Perfect for a cozy evening or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, chopped walnuts (if using), and melted butter. Spread oat mixture evenly over the apple filling.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Brown Sugar Sweet Potato Casserole
This classic Southern dessert combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the warmth of brown sugar and crunchy pecans. A perfect side dish for the holidays or a comforting treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, heavy cream, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the top.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the pecans.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Brown Sugar Garlic Butter Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and savory shrimp dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, garlic, and butter until smooth.
3. Add shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the shrimp in a single layer.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with soy sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Brown Sugar Peach Cobbler
Warm up with a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This Brown Sugar Peach Cobbler is a sweet and satisfying treat that combines the flavors of juicy peaches, rich brown sugar, and flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups sliced peaches
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced peaches, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the fruit to release its juices.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and cold butter until crumbly. Add heavy cream and mix until a dough forms.
4. Pour peach mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Roll out dough on a floured surface and place over peaches.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Brown Sugar Pumpkin Spice Latte
This fall-inspired latte combines the flavors of pumpkin, brown sugar, and spices to create a cozy and comforting beverage perfect for crisp autumn days or as a seasonal treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee
– 1 cup milk (whole, skim, or non-dairy)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar syrup
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin puree
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of espresso or make a strong cup of coffee.
2. In a small saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat.
3. Add brown sugar syrup, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the milk. Whisk until dissolved.
4. Combine the warmed milk mixture with the espresso.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level as needed.
6. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Brown Sugar Honey Butter
Sweeten your morning toast, biscuits, or scones with this indulgent brown sugar honey butter. A perfect blend of caramelized flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons pure honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the brown sugar and continue to mix until well combined.
3. Add the honey and mix until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and whip until smooth and creamy. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Perfect for topping toast, biscuits, scones, or using as a spread for your favorite pastry.
Brown Sugar Bourbon Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory Brown Sugar Bourbon Glazed Ham recipe. A perfect blend of caramelized brown sugar, rich bourbon, and a hint of spices, this glaze is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) ham
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, bourbon, honey, mustard, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Place ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
5. Brush glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Brown Sugar Vanilla Ice Cream
Sweet and creamy, this brown sugar vanilla ice cream is a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and brown sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add in the vanilla extract and salt, whisking until well combined.
3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once the ice cream is almost fully set, transfer it to an airtight container and place in the freezer to harden for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)
Brown Sugar Molasses Cookies
These classic cookies are a staple of comfort baking, with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying these soft and chewy treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp molasses
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses and egg.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Brown Sugar Caramel Sauce
A rich and indulgent caramel sauce infused with the warmth of brown sugar, perfect for topping ice cream, cakes, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter in a medium saucepan.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the caramel turns a deep amber color.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Let the sauce cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Brown Sugar Spiced Nuts
Elevate your snack game with this simple recipe for brown sugar spiced nuts. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying the perfect blend of sweet and spicy in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, smoked paprika, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the mixed nuts to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
4. Spread the nut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until fragrant and lightly toasted.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these 20 delectable brown sugar recipes! From savory dishes like Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon and Brown Sugar Baked Beans to indulgent treats like Brown Sugar Pecan Pie and Brown Sugar Vanilla Ice Cream, there’s something for everyone. Discover the rich flavor of brown sugar in classic recipes like Brown Sugar Cinnamon Rolls and Brown Sugar Banana Bread, or try something new with Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots and Brown Sugar Spiced Nuts. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a culinary newcomer, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds.
