These Slow Cooker Maple & Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are the perfect combination of sweet and savory, making them a delightful side dish for any meal.
Slow-cooked to tender perfection and coated in a luscious maple and brown sugar glaze, these carrots are effortless to prepare and a hit at holiday dinners or weeknight meals.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Vegetable peeler
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients Overview
- Carrots: Fresh whole carrots provide the best texture and flavor, but baby carrots are a convenient option.
- Maple Syrup: Adds a rich, natural sweetness.
- Brown Sugar: Deepens the caramelized flavor of the glaze.
- Butter: Adds a velvety texture and enhances the glaze.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and complements the sweetness beautifully.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds carrots, peeled and sliced into 2-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Carrots
- Peel and slice the carrots into uniform pieces for even cooking. Alternatively, use baby carrots for convenience.
Make the Glaze
- In a small mixing bowl, combine melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well blended.
Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
- Place the carrots in the slow cooker and pour the glaze over them. Toss to coat the carrots evenly.
Cook the Carrots
- Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender.
Serve
- Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and spoon the remaining glaze over the top.
Recipe Tips
- For added flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or thyme on top before serving.
- To make the dish even more decadent, add a pinch of nutmeg to the glaze.
- If using baby carrots, be sure to check for tenderness earlier, as they cook slightly faster than sliced whole carrots.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Pair these glazed carrots with roasted chicken, turkey, or glazed ham for a balanced meal. They also complement mashed potatoes or a crisp side salad beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen carrots?
Yes, but fresh carrots yield a better texture and flavor. If using frozen, reduce the cooking time slightly.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the carrots and glaze ahead, and reheat them in the slow cooker or on the stovetop before serving.
How do I thicken the glaze?
If the glaze is too thin, remove the carrots and cook the glaze uncovered on high for 15 minutes until it thickens.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Slow Cooker Maple & Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots warm, topped with a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added crunch or a dollop of butter for extra richness. They’re a standout side dish for both everyday meals and special occasions!
Slow Cooker Maple & Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Vegetable peeler
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 2 pounds carrots peeled and sliced into 2-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Carrots
- Peel and slice the carrots into uniform pieces for even cooking. Alternatively, use baby carrots for convenience.
- Make the Glaze
- In a small mixing bowl, combine melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well blended.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
- Place the carrots in the slow cooker and pour the glaze over them. Toss to coat the carrots evenly.
- Cook the Carrots
- Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender.
- Serve
- Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and spoon the remaining glaze over the top.
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