The aroma of Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots wafts through the house, wrapping around you like a cozy blanket. Imagine tender carrots, bathed in a sweet maple glaze, glistening like jewels on your dinner plate. Each bite bursts with flavor, blending earthy sweetness and a hint of buttery goodness that makes you feel like you’re indulging in something special.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?
- How long do I cook the carrots in a slow cooker?
- What can I serve with Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made these delightful carrots for a family gathering. My cousin, who claims to be a vegetable hater, devoured them faster than I could say “slow cooker,” leaving me with just a few sad, glazed remnants. Trust me when I say that these carrots are not just a side dish; they can steal the show at any dinner table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation allows even novice cooks to shine in the kitchen
- The rich flavor profile combines sweet and savory elements for an irresistible taste
- With vibrant colors and glossy finishes, these carrots are visually stunning on any plate
- Perfect for holiday dinners or simple weeknight meals, their versatility shines through
I once served these at Thanksgiving dinner, and my aunt asked for the recipe three times—so you know they’re a hit!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Carrots: Choose fresh, firm carrots; baby carrots work well too for quicker prep.
Maple Syrup: Opt for pure maple syrup for the richest flavor; avoid imitation syrup.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best to control the saltiness of your dish.
Dried Thyme: This herb adds depth; fresh thyme can also be used if available.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste preferences.
Water or Broth: Use vegetable broth for added flavor or plain water if preferred.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots
Prep Your Carrots: Begin by washing and peeling your carrots. Cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking—think about 1-inch chunks that will fit nicely in your slow cooker.
Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted butter, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. This mixture is going to add that mouthwatering glaze we all love.
Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Place the chopped carrots into your slow cooker. Pour the sauce over them and add enough water or broth to cover about half of the carrots.
Cook on Low Heat: Set your slow cooker on low heat and let those beauties cook for 4 to 5 hours. You’ll know they are done when they are fork-tender and glistening with glaze.
Toss Before Serving: Once cooked, give everything a gentle toss before serving to coat each carrot piece in that luscious glaze. Serve warm and enjoy every delicious bite.
Each step brings you closer to those tasty Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots that can make any meal memorable! Enjoy this easy recipe as part of your next dinner party or holiday feast—your friends and family will thank you!
You Must Know
- Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots are a sweet addition to any meal
- The combination of maple syrup and butter creates a luscious glaze that caramelizes beautifully
- These carrots not only taste heavenly but also fill your kitchen with an inviting aroma that makes everyone hungry!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the best Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots, start by preparing your carrots first. Peel and cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Mix the glaze ingredients separately before adding everything to the slow cooker.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out maple syrup for honey or agave for a different sweetness profile. You can also toss in herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist, or add nuts for some crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop, adding a splash of water if they seem dry.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly glazed carrots, be sure to cut them evenly for consistent cooking
- Avoid overcooking; you want them tender yet still firm
- A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness beautifully without overpowering the flavors
When I first made these Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots, my family was floored! They couldn’t believe how easy it was to create something so delicious and impressive.
FAQ
Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots; just adjust cooking time as needed.
How long do I cook the carrots in a slow cooker?
Cook on low for about 4 hours or on high for 2 hours.
What can I serve with Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots?
These carrots pair well with roasted meats and hearty grains like quinoa or rice.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Delicious Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the sweet and savory delight of Slow-Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots. This easy recipe transforms simple carrots into a gourmet side dish, coated in a luscious maple glaze that caramelizes beautifully as they cook. Perfect for holiday feasts or weeknight dinners, these vibrant carrots are sure to impress your family and friends with their irresistible flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs fresh carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 2 tsp fresh thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
Instructions
- Prepare the carrots by washing, peeling, and cutting them into uniform 1-inch pieces.
- In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, melted butter, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Place the carrots in the slow cooker and pour the glaze over them. Add enough broth or water to cover half of the carrots.
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours until fork-tender and glazed.
- Toss gently before serving to coat all carrot pieces in the glaze.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 3/4 cup (150g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
