Suzie-Q Candied Carrots

Serves 8 to 10

2 lbs. carrots, peeled and sliced

1/2 c. butter

1 c. brown sugar, packed

1/2 t. vanilla extract

1/2 t. pepper

Place carrots in a large saucepan; cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until fork-tender; drain. Add butter, brown sugar, vanilla and pepper; simmer over medium heat until thickened, about 5 minutes.

Need a snack to tide the kids over until dinner? Head to the pantry and mix up mini pretzels, crunchy cereal squares, raisins and nuts...toss in a few candy-coated chocolates for fun and let them enjoy!