18 Delicious Brown Sugar Recipes for Sweet Tooths

From the first sprinkle to the last lick, brown sugar transforms ordinary ingredients into extraordinary treats. Whether you’re craving cozy comfort food or eager to explore new dessert horizons, our roundup of 18 Delicious Brown Sugar Recipes is your golden ticket. Perfect for North American home cooks, these recipes promise to satisfy every sweet tooth. Ready to indulge? Let’s dive into the sugary goodness!

Brown Sugar Glazed Salmon

Ready to whip up something delicious that’s both easy and impressive? This brown sugar glazed salmon is your ticket to a flavorful dinner with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillets – 4 (6 oz each)
• Brown sugar – 1/4 cup
• Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
• Garlic powder – 1 tsp
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic powder until well combined.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet and brush them lightly with olive oil.
4. Generously spoon the brown sugar mixture over each fillet, spreading it evenly with the back of the spoon.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork and the glaze is bubbly.
6. Let the salmon rest for 2 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Look at that glaze! The salmon comes out perfectly tender with a sweet and savory crust that’s downright addictive. Serve it over a bed of rice or with a side of roasted veggies for a complete meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Brown Sugar and Bacon Brussels Sprouts

Zesty and a little bit indulgent, these Brussels sprouts are about to become your new favorite side dish. You’ll love the sweet and smoky combo that makes them irresistible.

Ingredients

• Brussels sprouts – 1 lb
• Bacon – 4 slices
• Brown sugar – 2 tbsp
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help crisp the bacon and caramelize the Brussels sprouts.
2. Cut the Brussels sprouts in half and chop the bacon into 1-inch pieces. Tip: If some leaves fall off while cutting, keep them—they’ll get extra crispy.
3. Toss the Brussels sprouts and bacon with olive oil and salt in a large bowl. Make sure everything is evenly coated.
4. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, then sprinkle the brown sugar over the top. Tip: Use your hands to evenly distribute the sugar for perfect caramelization.
6. Bake for another 10 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the Brussels sprouts are tender. Tip: Give the tray a shake halfway through to prevent sticking and promote even browning.

Rich in flavor with a perfect balance of sweet and salty, these Brussels sprouts are best served hot right out of the oven. Try topping them with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Rolls

Ever find yourself craving something sweet, warm, and a little bit indulgent? These brown sugar cinnamon rolls are your answer, perfect for a cozy morning or a sweet treat any time of day.

Ingredients

• Flour – 2 cups
• Brown sugar – ½ cup
• Cinnamon – 2 tsp
• Butter – ¼ cup, melted
• Milk – ¾ cup, warm
• Yeast – 1 packet
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and ¼ cup brown sugar to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough back in the bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle.
6. Brush melted butter over the dough, then sprinkle remaining brown sugar and cinnamon evenly.
7. Roll the dough tightly from the long side, then cut into 12 even pieces.
8. Place rolls in a greased baking dish, cover, and let rise for another 30 minutes.
9. Preheat oven to 350°F and bake rolls for 25 minutes until golden brown.

Perfectly soft and fluffy, these rolls are a caramelized, cinnamon-y delight. Try serving them warm with a drizzle of cream cheese frosting for an extra special touch.

Brown Sugar Meatloaf

Think you’ve tried every meatloaf recipe out there? This brown sugar meatloaf is about to change the game. It’s sweet, savory, and just the right amount of sticky.

Ingredients

• Ground beef – 1.5 lbs
• Brown sugar – 1/2 cup
• Ketchup – 1/4 cup
• Egg – 1
• Bread crumbs – 1/2 cup
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Black pepper – 1/2 tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking from the get-go.
2. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, brown sugar, ketchup, egg, bread crumbs, salt, and black pepper until just combined. Overmixing can make the meatloaf tough.
3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish. Pro tip: A loaf pan works, but a baking sheet gives more caramelization.
4. Bake for 1 hour. Halfway through, brush the top with extra ketchup if you like it extra saucy.
5. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This keeps all those juicy flavors locked in.

Caramelized edges meet a tender, flavorful center in this meatloaf. Serve it with mashed potatoes and green beans for the ultimate comfort meal.

Brown Sugar Baked Beans

Just imagine a dish that brings a sweet, smoky depth to your table with minimal fuss. These brown sugar baked beans are your go-to for a comforting side that pairs perfectly with almost anything.

Ingredients

• Canned baked beans – 2 cans (28 oz each)
• Brown sugar – ½ cup
• Bacon – 4 slices, chopped
• Onion – ½ cup, diced
• Mustard – 1 tbsp
• Ketchup – ¼ cup

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures even cooking and a perfect texture.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5 minutes. Tip: Save the bacon grease for extra flavor in other dishes.
3. Add the diced onion to the skillet with bacon and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. This builds a flavor base.
4. In a large bowl, mix the canned baked beans, brown sugar, mustard, and ketchup. Stir well to combine.
5. Fold in the cooked bacon and onions, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the beans.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake uncovered for 45 minutes. Tip: For a caramelized top, broil for the last 2 minutes.
7. Let the beans sit for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

For a twist, serve these beans over toasted sourdough or alongside grilled sausages. The sweetness of the brown sugar balances the smokiness of the bacon, creating a dish that’s both rich and comforting.

Brown Sugar Pecan Pie

Fancy a dessert that’s both sweet and nutty? This brown sugar pecan pie is your go-to for a cozy night in or a festive gathering. It’s simple, delicious, and sure to impress.

Ingredients

• Pie crust – 1 (9-inch)
• Brown sugar – 1 cup
• Eggs – 3
• Corn syrup – 1 cup
• Butter – 2 tbsp, melted
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
• Salt – ¼ tsp
• Pecans – 1 ½ cups, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges. Tip: Chill the crust for 10 minutes before baking to prevent shrinking.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, eggs, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Stir in the chopped pecans. Tip: Toast the pecans beforehand for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. Tip: Cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly.
7. Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving.

Buttery, rich, and packed with crunchy pecans, this pie is a delight. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat.

Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Very few dishes strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory like this one. You’ll love how the brown sugar caramelizes, creating a sticky, flavorful glaze that clings to every bite of tender chicken.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs – 4
• Brown sugar – ¼ cup
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures even cooking and helps the sugar caramelize perfectly.
2. In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, minced garlic, and soy sauce until well combined. Tip: Letting this sit for a few minutes helps the flavors meld.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and cook for 5 minutes until golden brown. Tip: Don’t move them around too much to get a good sear.
4. Flip the chicken and pour the brown sugar mixture over the top. Make sure each piece is evenly coated.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25 minutes. Tip: Baste the chicken with the sauce halfway through for extra flavor.
6. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This keeps the juices locked in.

Caramelized to perfection, this chicken is irresistibly sticky with a hint of garlicky goodness. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice to soak up all that delicious sauce, or alongside some crisp green beans for a complete meal.

Brown Sugar Banana Bread

Ah, there’s nothing quite like the smell of banana bread wafting through your kitchen. This brown sugar banana bread is your go-to for a cozy morning or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients

• Flour – 1 ½ cups
• Brown sugar – ¾ cup
• Butter – ½ cup, melted
• Eggs – 2
• Bananas – 3, mashed
• Baking soda – 1 tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the mashed bananas. Tip: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bread will be.
4. Combine the flour, baking soda, and salt in another bowl. Gradually blend into the banana mixture. Tip: Don’t overmix to keep the bread tender.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
6. Bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Tip: If the top browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
7. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

This banana bread is moist, with a deep caramel flavor from the brown sugar. Try serving it warm with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.

Brown Sugar Pulled Pork

Kick back and get ready for a flavor-packed journey with this easy brown sugar pulled pork. It’s the kind of dish that makes your kitchen smell like a dream and your taste buds dance with joy.

Ingredients

• Pork shoulder – 3 lbs
• Brown sugar – ½ cup
• Apple cider vinegar – ¼ cup
• Salt – 1 tbsp
• Black pepper – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F.
2. Rub the pork shoulder evenly with salt and black pepper.
3. Place the pork shoulder in a roasting pan and pour apple cider vinegar over it.
4. Sprinkle brown sugar on top of the pork shoulder, ensuring it’s fully covered.
5. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 4 hours. Tip: For extra tenderness, don’t peek during cooking.
6. Remove the pan from the oven and let it rest, covered, for 30 minutes. Tip: This step is crucial for juicy meat.
7. Shred the pork with two forks, mixing it with the juices in the pan. Tip: If the pork is hard to shred, it might need more cooking time.

All done! This pulled pork is irresistibly tender with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Serve it on buns for classic sandwiches or over a bowl of greens for a lighter option.

Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots

Let’s talk about turning simple carrots into something extraordinary with just a few ingredients. You’ll love how these brown sugar roasted carrots caramelize into sweet, tender perfection.

Ingredients

• Carrots – 1 lb
• Brown sugar – 2 tbsp
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Peel the carrots and cut them into even sticks for uniform cooking.
3. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat, then stir in the brown sugar and salt until dissolved. Tip: Keep the heat low to prevent the sugar from burning.
4. Toss the carrot sticks in the brown sugar mixture until evenly coated.
5. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet. Tip: Use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then flip the carrots and roast for another 10-15 minutes until they’re tender and glazed. Tip: Watch them closely in the last few minutes to avoid overcaramelizing.

Every bite of these carrots is a mix of sweet and savory, with a slightly crispy edge. Try serving them alongside a creamy dip or sprinkled with chopped nuts for extra crunch.

Brown Sugar Peach Cobbler

Kick off your summer with this irresistible brown sugar peach cobbler. It’s the perfect blend of sweet, juicy peaches and a buttery, crumbly topping that’ll have you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

• Peaches – 4 cups, sliced
• Brown sugar – 1 cup
• Flour – 1 cup
• Butter – ½ cup, melted
• Baking powder – 1 tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Milk – ½ cup

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the sliced peaches evenly.
3. Sprinkle ½ cup of brown sugar over the peaches.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, remaining brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
5. Stir in melted butter and milk until the mixture is just combined. Tip: Don’t overmix to keep the topping light.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the batter over the peaches, spreading lightly. Tip: It’s okay if some peaches peek through.
7. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the peaches are bubbly. Tip: Place a baking sheet underneath to catch any spills.

Zesty and warm, this cobbler pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the cool ice cream and the warm, fruity cobbler is simply divine. Try serving it at your next barbecue for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Brown Sugar Pancakes

These brown sugar pancakes are your new weekend breakfast obsession. They’re fluffy, sweet, and just the thing to start your day right.

Ingredients

• Flour – 1 cup
• Brown sugar – 2 tbsp
• Baking powder – 1 tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Milk – ¾ cup
• Egg – 1
• Butter – 2 tbsp, melted

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, beat the egg, then stir in the milk and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; a few lumps are okay. Tip: Overmixing makes pancakes tough.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Wait until it’s hot enough that a drop of water sizzles.
5. Pour ¼ cup of batter onto the skillet for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set, about 2-3 minutes. Tip: Don’t press down on the pancakes; let them rise naturally.
6. Flip the pancakes and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Tip: Keep finished pancakes warm in a 200°F oven while you cook the rest.

Dig into these pancakes while they’re hot. The brown sugar gives them a caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream. For a fun twist, try adding a handful of chocolate chips to the batter before cooking.

Brown Sugar Glazed Ham

Brown sugar glazed ham is the perfect centerpiece for your next gathering, offering a sweet and savory flavor that everyone will love. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to make this crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• Ham – 1 (8-10 lb) fully cooked, bone-in
• Brown sugar – 1 cup
• Dijon mustard – 2 tbsp
• Apple cider vinegar – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F.
2. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
3. Score the fat in a diamond pattern, about 1/4 inch deep, to help the glaze penetrate.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
5. Brush half of the glaze over the ham, making sure to get into the scored lines.
6. Bake the ham, uncovered, for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
7. After the first hour, brush the remaining glaze over the ham.
8. Continue baking until the internal temperature reaches 140°F, about another 30 minutes.
9. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Perfectly glazed ham comes out juicy with a caramelized crust that’s irresistibly sticky. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or slice it thin for sandwiches the next day.

Brown Sugar Oatmeal Cookies

Ah, there’s nothing quite like the smell of brown sugar oatmeal cookies baking in the oven to make your kitchen feel like home. These cookies are your go-to for a quick treat that’s both comforting and delicious.

Ingredients

• Butter – 1 cup
• Brown sugar – 1 cup
• Eggs – 2
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
• Flour – 1 ½ cups
• Baking soda – 1 tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Oats – 3 cups

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
6. Fold in the oats until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Lightly crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside, these cookies are packed with a rich, caramel-like flavor from the brown sugar. Try serving them warm with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Brown Sugar Sweet Potato Casserole

Mmm, imagine diving into a dish that’s the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and utterly comforting. That’s what you get with this brown sugar sweet potato casserole, a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Ingredients

– Sweet potatoes – 3 cups, mashed
– Brown sugar – ½ cup
– Butter – ¼ cup, melted
– Eggs – 2, beaten
– Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
– Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, melted butter, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated. Tip: For smoother potatoes, peel and boil them until tender before mashing.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden and the center is set. Tip: To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
5. Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Tip: For an extra touch, sprinkle a little more brown sugar on top right after baking for a caramelized effect.
The casserole comes out wonderfully creamy with a hint of caramel from the brown sugar. Serve it as a side dish at your next dinner or enjoy it as a sweet treat on its own.

Brown Sugar Apple Crisp

Brown sugar apple crisp is the kind of dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl. You’ve got tender, spiced apples under a crunchy, buttery topping—it’s simple, comforting, and totally irresistible.

Ingredients

• Apples – 4 cups, sliced
• Brown sugar – 1 cup
• Flour – 1 cup
• Butter – ½ cup, cold and cubed
• Cinnamon – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures a crispy topping and perfectly cooked apples.
2. Toss the sliced apples with ½ cup of brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out the juices.
3. In another bowl, mix the flour and remaining ½ cup of brown sugar. Tip: Rubbing the cold butter into the flour mixture with your fingers creates the perfect crumbly texture.
4. Spread the apple mixture evenly in a baking dish. Sprinkle the flour mixture on top. Don’t press it down—keeping it loose makes it extra crispy.
5. Bake for 35 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the apples are bubbling. Tip: Place a baking sheet underneath to catch any drips.
6. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices thicken slightly.

Apple crisp is best served warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the top. The contrast of the cold ice cream and the warm, spiced apples is heavenly.

Brown Sugar BBQ Sauce

Hey, you know that craving for something sweet, smoky, and just a little bit spicy? This brown sugar BBQ sauce is your answer. It’s ridiculously easy to whip up and packs a punch of flavor that’ll elevate any dish.

Ingredients

• Brown sugar – 1 cup
• Ketchup – 1 cup
• Apple cider vinegar – ¼ cup
• Worcestershire sauce – 2 tbsp
• Garlic powder – 1 tsp
• Onion powder – 1 tsp
• Smoked paprika – 1 tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Black pepper – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir constantly until the brown sugar dissolves completely, about 2 minutes.
3. Once dissolved, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. After 20 minutes, check the consistency. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time until desired thickness is reached.
5. Remove from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes before using or storing.

Absolutely perfect for slathering on ribs or mixing into pulled pork, this sauce has a rich, velvety texture with a balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Try brushing it on grilled chicken during the last few minutes of cooking for a caramelized finish.

Brown Sugar Pumpkin Spice Latte

Warm up your autumn mornings with this cozy twist on the classic latte. You’ll love how the brown sugar and pumpkin spice blend together for a sweet, spiced kick.

Ingredients

• Milk – 1 cup
• Pumpkin puree – 2 tbsp
• Brown sugar – 1 tbsp
• Pumpkin spice – ½ tsp
• Espresso – 1 shot
• Whipped cream – for topping

Instructions

1. Heat the milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to steam, about 3 minutes. Tip: Keep an eye on it to prevent boiling.
2. Whisk in the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and pumpkin spice until fully combined and the mixture is smooth, about 1 minute. Tip: A small whisk works best to avoid lumps.
3. Pour the espresso into a mug, then slowly add the pumpkin milk mixture, stirring gently to combine.
4. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice for an extra touch of flavor. Tip: For a dairy-free version, use coconut whipped cream.

Lusciously creamy with a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, this latte is a fall favorite. Try serving it with a cinnamon stick for stirring and added aroma.

Conclusion

Mouthwatering and versatile, these 18 brown sugar recipes are a treasure trove for anyone with a sweet tooth. From cozy breakfasts to decadent desserts, there’s something to satisfy every craving. We’d love to hear which recipes you try and adore—drop us a comment below! And if you found this roundup as sweet as we do, don’t forget to share the love on Pinterest. Happy baking!

Bella Bacinos