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My Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots Recipe At A Glance
Primary Cooking Method: Bake
Number of Ingredients: 7
Total Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Cook Time: 4-5 hours
Level of Effort To Make: Easy Peasy
(Learn more about our recipe effort levels)
If you’re not using your slow cooker for side dishes (along with life-saving weeknight dinners), you’re doing it wrong. Sorry, not sorry—I said it. This glazed carrot recipe is exactly why the slow cooker is the GOAT in my kitchen appliance line up!
When it comes to holiday dinners or those chaotic family gatherings, my slow cooker is my ride-or-die. There’s just something so relieving about tossing a bunch of ingredients into it and letting it do its thing while you’re juggling a million other dishes.
These slow-cooked glazed carrots? They’re my go-to side when the oven’s stuffed with bread and turkey, and every burner on the stove is playing host to some bubbling pot.
7 Ingredients to make Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots
- 2 pounds baby carrots: Prewashed and ready to go—no peeling, no chopping. You can use opt for regular sized carrots, just peel and cut into about inch long pieces.
- ¼ cup butter, melted: Salted or unsalted works here. If using salted butter, adjust the added salt as needed. Swap melted butter for ghee or a plant-based butter if needed.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Dark or light brown sugar both work. Maple syrup or honey can replace brown sugar for a slightly different flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the glaze.
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon: Warm and cozy, this spice takes the glaze to the next level.
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional): For an extra layer of warmth and a hint of holiday. Add a ¼ teaspoon of ginger or cloves for more spice.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley: Chopped for garnish, this adds a pop of color and freshness right before serving.
Make This Recipe Yours With Additions
- Citrus flavor: Add the zest of one orange or 2 tablespoons of orange juice to the glaze for a citrusy flavor that goes with the sweetness of the carrots.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pecans or slivered almonds over the finished dish for some texture and a hint of nuttiness.
- Sweet & Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a subtle spice.
- Maple Infusion: Swap out part of the brown sugar for 2 tablespoons of maple syrup for a deeper, more complex sweetness.
- Herb Boost: Toss in a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary during cooking for a savory, aromatic twist.
- Dried Fruit: Mix in ¼ cup of dried cranberries or raisins right before serving.
How to make Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots
For detailed step-by-step instructions, be sure to check out the full recipe in the recipe card at the bottom of the page.
Toss the carrots in the mixture.
My Best Cooking Tips for Making Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots
- Don’t Skip Stirring: Give everything a good stir before starting the slow cooker to make sure the butter, sugar, and spices coat the carrots evenly. It’s the little things that make a big difference.
- Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat (around 4-5 hours) gives the carrots a tender texture without turning them mushy. If you’re short on time, high heat for 2-3 hours works too—just keep an eye on them.
- Test for Doneness: Pierce a carrot with a fork to check if it’s tender. Cooking times can vary depending on the size of your carrots and the slow cooker.
- Taste Before You Serve: Right before serving, give the carrots a taste. Need more sweetness? Add a drizzle of honey. A little bland? Sprinkle in a salt to brighten the flavors.
Menu Ideas – What to Eat with Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots
- Classic Comfort: Pair these carrots with roasted chicken or a juicy pot roast. Add creamy mashed potatoes or buttery dinner rolls to soak up all the goodness.
- Holiday Feast: They’re a no-brainer alongside ham, turkey, or prime rib. Don’t forget stuffing, green bean casserole, and maybe a little cranberry sauce to keep things festive.
- Weeknight Easy: Serve them with pan-seared pork chops, meatloaf, or baked salmon. Add a simple side of rice, quinoa, or roasted potatoes for a stress-free dinner.
- Veggie-Packed Pairing: Want a full vegetarian spread? These carrots go great with creamy mac and cheese, sautéed green beans, and a big, fresh salad.
- Southern Style: Serve them up with BBQ ribs, fried chicken, or pulled pork. Add cornbread and coleslaw for the ultimate comfort combo.
How to store & reheat Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots
Since these glazed carrots are coated in butter and sugar, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow them to cool completely before storing, and ensure they stay chilled to maintain freshness and flavor.
Reheating
From the Refrigerator:
- Stovetop: Place the glazed carrots in a saucepan over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through. Add a small splash of water or melted butter if the glaze has thickened too much.
- Microwave: Place the carrots in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through.
Quick Recipe Help and Common Questions
Why is my glaze so thin?
Glaze consistency can vary depending on the water content in the carrots. To fix it, remove the slow cooker lid for the last 30–45 minutes of cooking and stir occasionally to let the glaze thicken. If needed, add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water to help it along.
Can I make these carrots ahead of time?
Yes, but keep in mind they might soften further when reheated. Store in an airtight container and gently reheat in the slow cooker or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if the glaze thickens too much.
Why are my carrots unevenly cooked?
Uneven cooking is often due to overcrowding or large carrot sizes. Make sure the carrots are evenly spread out in the slow cooker and are of similar size for consistent results. Stir them halfway through cooking for even glazing.
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Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots
Never Lose This Recipe—Email It to Yourself!
Make sure you have it when you need it! Bonus: You’ll get family-approved recipes and meal-planning tips, too!
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby carrots prewashed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the carrots: Place 2 pounds of prewashed baby carrots into the slow cooker.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup melted butter, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (if using).
- Coat the carrots: Pour the glaze mixture over the carrots and toss to coat evenly.
- Cook: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 5–6 hours (or high heat for 3–4 hours) until the carrots are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Thicken the glaze: For a thicker glaze, remove the slow cooker lid for the last 30–45 minutes of cooking to let the liquid reduce.
- Serve: Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and garnish with 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley.
Notes
- Don’t Skip Stirring: Give everything a good stir before starting the slow cooker to make sure the butter, sugar, and spices coat the carrots evenly. It’s the little things that make a big difference.
- Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat (around 4-5 hours) gives the carrots a tender texture without turning them mushy. If you’re short on time, high heat for 2-3 hours works too—just keep an eye on them.
- Test for Doneness: Pierce a carrot with a fork to check if it’s tender. Cooking times can vary depending on the size of your carrots and the slow cooker.
- Taste Before You Serve: Right before serving, give the carrots a taste. Need more sweetness? Add a drizzle of honey. A little bland? Sprinkle in a salt to brighten the flavors.
Make This Recipe Yours With Additions
- Citrus flavor: Add the zest of one orange or 2 tablespoons of orange juice to the glaze for a citrusy flavor that goes with the sweetness of the carrots.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pecans or slivered almonds over the finished dish for some texture and a hint of nuttiness.
- Sweet & Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a subtle spice.
- Maple Infusion: Swap out part of the brown sugar for 2 tablespoons of maple syrup for a deeper, more complex sweetness.
- Herb Boost: Toss in a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary during cooking for a savory, aromatic twist.
- Dried Fruit: Mix in ¼ cup of dried cranberries or raisins right before serving.
Nutrition
Nutrition information provided is an estimate. It will vary based on cooking method and specific ingredients used.
