Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots: The Ultimate Side Dish Recipe
Introduction to Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots
Welcome to a delightful culinary experience with our Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots! This dish transforms simple baby carrots into a sweet and savory side that will elevate any meal. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, these carrots are cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll discover how easy it is to create a dish that’s both comforting and delicious.
A Personal Story Behind My Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots Journey
Growing up, my family had a tradition of enjoying hearty meals together. One of my fondest memories is of my grandmother’s kitchen filled with the aroma of sweet, roasted vegetables. Carrots were always a favorite, but it was her maple-glazed version that truly captured my heart. Now, I love recreating that nostalgia with this slow cooker recipe, allowing me to share the warmth and love of family meals with my own loved ones.
What Makes This Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because of its simplicity and the way it highlights the natural sweetness of carrots. The combination of real maple syrup, brown sugar, and cinnamon creates a delicious glaze that coats each carrot, making every bite a treat. The slow cooking process ensures that the flavors penetrate deeply, resulting in a tender and flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Plus, there’s little cleanup involved, making it a hassle-free addition to your meal planning!
The Full Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby carrots
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup real maple syrup
- 1/3 cup butter, cubed
Instructions
- Place the baby carrots in a 6-quart slow cooker. This size allows for even cooking and ample space for the glaze to envelop the carrots.
- Sprinkle salt, cinnamon, and brown sugar over the carrots. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Drizzle the maple syrup over the carrots and toss to coat evenly. The syrup adds a rich sweetness that balances perfectly with the spices.
- Arrange the carrots evenly in the slow cooker. This ensures they cook uniformly.
- Place cubes of butter on top of the carrots and cover with the lid. The butter will melt and add a creamy texture to the glaze.
- Cook on “high” for 3 hours or on “low” for 5-6 hours. Stir the carrots occasionally if possible to promote even cooking.
- For a thicker glaze, uncover the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes of cooking and switch to “high” until the glaze thickens. This step is crucial for that delicious sticky texture!
- Alternatively, transfer the carrots to a bowl and cover to keep warm. Pour the liquid into a saucepan, simmer over medium-high heat, and whisk until thickened, about 5 minutes. This gives you a beautifully concentrated sauce.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots
These slow cooker maple glazed carrots are versatile and can complement many dishes. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a hearty vegetarian meal. For a unique twist, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness. You can also try incorporating other vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for added variety and nutrition. The sweet glaze pairs wonderfully with savory flavors, making it a delightful addition to your dinner table.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots
Can I use frozen carrots instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen baby carrots, but they may require a bit longer cooking time to achieve the desired tenderness.
How can I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prep the carrots and glaze, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just allow extra time for cooking if starting from cold.
Enjoy these sweet and savory Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots!
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 3-6 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes – 6 hours 10 minutes
Calories per Serving: 220
Servings: 6
Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots
Equipment
- Slow Cooker 6-quart recommended for even cooking.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby carrots
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 cup packed brown sugar
- 0.25 cup real maple syrup
- 0.33 cup butter, cubed
Instructions
- Place the baby carrots in a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Sprinkle salt, cinnamon, and brown sugar over the carrots. Mix well.
- Drizzle the maple syrup over the carrots and toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange the carrots evenly in the slow cooker.
- Place cubes of butter on top of the carrots and cover with the lid.
- Cook on 'high' for 3 hours or on 'low' for 5-6 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
- For a thicker glaze, uncover the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes and switch to 'high'.
- Alternatively, transfer the carrots to a bowl and keep warm. Pour the liquid into a saucepan, simmer, and whisk until thickened, about 5 minutes.