Slow Cooker Maple Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
Let me tell you about the side dish that’s about to steal the show: Slow Cooker Maple Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots. These carrots are tender, buttery, and glazed to perfection with a sweet, sticky maple brown sugar sauce that’s downright irresistible.
This recipe is seriously a lifesaver for busy days or holiday dinners when the oven is already packed. Just toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it work its magic. Trust me, you’ll want to make a double batch because these carrots go fast—and for good reason!
Why You’ll Love These Glazed Carrots
- Hands-Off Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to focus on other things.
- Perfect Flavor Combo: Sweet maple syrup, brown sugar, and butter create a glaze that’s pure comfort food.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These carrots are guaranteed to get compliments, whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast.
- Healthy-ish: Packed with natural sweetness and vitamins, it’s a side dish you can feel good about.
How to Make It
Making these carrots is so easy, you’ll wonder why you ever did it any other way. Here’s the play-by-play:
Step 1: Prep the Carrots
Start by peeling and trimming your carrots. You can use whole carrots cut into sticks, or baby carrots for a no-chop option. Either works great!
Step 2: Mix the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon (optional but highly recommended!). This is where all that sweet, buttery magic happens.
Step 3: Load the Slow Cooker
Add the carrots to your slow cooker, then pour the glaze over them. Toss gently to coat all the carrots evenly.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir once or twice during cooking to make sure everything stays coated in that luscious glaze.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
When the carrots are perfectly tender, give them one last toss in the glaze. Transfer to a serving dish, and drizzle any extra sauce on top. Done and delicious!
Make Ahead Method
Want to make your life even easier? Here’s how to prep these carrots ahead of time:
- Carrots: Peel and trim the carrots, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking.
- Glaze: Whisk together the butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Store it in a jar or bowl in the fridge. Just warm it slightly before pouring over the carrots.
- Slow Cooker: Add the carrots and glaze to your slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to cook, simply pop the insert into the slow cooker and turn it on.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Carrots: Fresh, whole carrots give the best flavor and texture, but baby carrots are a convenient option if you’re short on time.
- Don’t Skip the Butter: The butter makes the glaze rich and velvety, so don’t cut corners here!
- Optional Add-Ins: Add a sprinkle of nutmeg, ground ginger, or even a splash of orange juice to the glaze for extra depth.
- Stir Gently: Be careful when stirring the carrots so they don’t break apart as they become tender.
- Double the Recipe: If you’re feeding a crowd, this recipe doubles easily—just make sure your slow cooker has enough space!
Storage Options
Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Fridge: Store cooled carrots in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a bit of the leftover glaze.
- Freezer: While not ideal, you can freeze these carrots. Just know that their texture may soften slightly upon reheating. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tools For This Recipe
- Slow Cooker: A 4-6 quart slow cooker is perfect for this recipe.
- Vegetable Peeler: For prepping whole carrots.
- Whisk: To mix the glaze until smooth.
- Tongs: For stirring and serving without breaking the carrots.
FAQs!
Q: Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Totally! Honey works just as well and gives a slightly different but still delicious flavor.
Q: What’s the best type of carrot to use?
Whole carrots (peeled and cut into sticks) have the best flavor, but baby carrots are a great time-saver.
Q: Can I cook these on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes! Simmer the carrots and glaze in a covered skillet over medium heat for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Q: How do I keep the glaze from burning in the slow cooker?
Make sure to stir the carrots once or twice during cooking. If your slow cooker tends to run hot, add a tablespoon of water to the glaze to thin it slightly.
Variations and Substitutions
- Carrots: Use rainbow carrots for a colorful twist.
- Sweetener: Swap maple syrup for honey or agave nectar.
- Spices: Add nutmeg, ground ginger, or even a pinch of cloves for a cozy flavor.
- Butter Alternatives: Use vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Conclusion
These Slow Cooker Maple Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots are the kind of side dish you’ll find yourself making over and over again. They’re easy, delicious, and pair perfectly with everything from roasted chicken to holiday turkey.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop a comment below and let me know if you made any tweaks or just enjoyed them as is. Your feedback makes my day! 🥕💛
Slow Cooker Maple Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
Ingredients
- 2 pounds carrots peeled and cut into sticks (or baby carrots)
- 3 tablespoons butter melted
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Peel and trim the carrots, or use baby carrots for convenience.
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt.
- Place the carrots in your slow cooker and pour the glaze over them. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, stirring once or twice during cooking.
- When the carrots are tender, give them one final toss in the glaze.
- Serve warm, drizzled with any extra glaze from the slow cooker.
- Enjoy! 🥕✨
