Crockpot Carrots with Maple Glaze

Crockpot Carrots with Maple Glaze is a delicious side dish that combines the natural sweetness of baby carrots with rich maple syrup and a hint of warm spices. Simple to prepare, this dish cooks slowly in a crockpot, making it perfect for busy days when you want a tasty meal without the hassle.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a great addition to any dinner table. It’s not only easy to make, but it’s also healthy and full of flavor. The maple glaze gives the carrots a sweet and sticky finish that will impress your family and guests. Plus, using a crockpot allows you to enjoy a tasty side dish without standing over the stove. It’s perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight meal.

How to Make Crockpot Carrots with Maple Glaze

Making this recipe is very straightforward. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby carrots
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• ⅓ cup butter
• Fresh thyme (for garnish)

Directions

1. Place the baby carrots, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon into a 5 or 6-quart crockpot and stir to combine.
2. Add the maple syrup to the crockpot and stir to coat the carrots.
3. Cut the butter into pats and layer them over the carrots.
4. Place the lid over the crockpot. Cook the carrots on high for 3 hours.
5. After 3 hours, uncover the crockpot. Allow the carrots to continue cooking on high for 30 minutes without the lid. This step lets the glaze thicken slightly.
6. If desired, garnish the carrots with a few sprigs of fresh thyme, then serve warm.

How to Serve Crockpot Carrots with Maple Glaze

Serve these delicious glazed carrots warm as a side dish with any main course. They go great with roasted meats, poultry, or even veggie dishes. The sweet and savory flavors complement almost any meal.

How to Store Crockpot Carrots with Maple Glaze

After enjoying your banquet of flavors, you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They will last for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm the carrots in the microwave or in a pan on the stove until heated through.

Tips to Make Crockpot Carrots with Maple Glaze

• Use fresh baby carrots for the best taste and texture. If you only have regular carrots, you can cut them into similar-sized pieces.
• You can adjust the amount of brown sugar and maple syrup to suit your taste.
• Stir the carrots halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.

Variation (If Any)

If you want to switch things up, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for added warmth. You can also mix in other vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips for a lovely color and flavor twist.

FAQs

Can I use frozen carrots for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen baby carrots, but they may take longer to cook. Keep an eye on them as they cook in the crockpot.

How do I know when the carrots are done?
The carrots should be tender but not mushy. You can test their doneness by gently trying to pierce one with a fork.

Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the carrots a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Reheat them in the crockpot or on the stove when you are ready to serve.

Crockpot Carrots with Maple Glaze are sure to be a family favorite. With this easy recipe, you can enjoy the sweet taste of carrots coated in a delicious maple glaze, all while taking the stress out of meal preparation. Enjoy cooking!