Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?

You can use baby carrots in a pinch, but whole carrots have better flavor and texture. Baby carrots tend to be waterlogged and can become mushy more quickly. If using baby carrots, reduce cooking time by about 30 minutes and check frequently for doneness.

My family doesn't like overly sweet vegetables. Can I reduce the sugar?

Absolutely! Start by reducing the brown sugar to 2-3 tablespoons and the maple syrup to 2 teaspoons. The carrots' natural sweetness will still shine through. You can also add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to balance the sweetness with a touch of acidity.

Can I make this recipe in my Instant Pot instead?

Yes! For Instant Pot conversion, add all ingredients with 1/4 cup water, seal, and cook on high pressure for 3-4 minutes with a quick release. If the glaze is too thin, use the sauté function for a few minutes to reduce it while gently stirring the carrots.

How can I tell when the carrots are perfectly done?

The perfect glazed carrot should be tender enough to easily pierce with a fork, but still hold its shape. They shouldn't be mushy or fall apart when stirred. The glaze should coat the carrots with a shiny finish, similar to a light syrup consistency.

Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots Recipe

Description

Indulge in the luscious sweetness of these Slow Cooker Maple Glazed Carrots. This easy yet flavor-packed side dish pairs tender carrots with a buttery maple glaze, making it the perfect addition to your holiday table or an everyday dinner.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Carrots

2 pounds whole carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2 rounds 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup unsalted butter, thinly sliced

For Garnish

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the Carrots
Add the peeled and sliced carrots to the bottom of a 5-quart or similar-sized slow cooker.
Add Sweeteners and Seasoning
Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the carrots, then drizzle the maple syrup and sprinkle the salt on top.
Top with Butter
Place the thinly sliced butter on top of the seasoned carrots, ensuring even coverage.
Slow Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2 ½–3 hours, stirring halfway through. Cook until the carrots are tender.
Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

Use Fresh Carrots: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh, whole carrots, as they have a natural sweetness.
Slice Evenly: To ensure even cooking, slice the carrots into uniform pieces.
Don’t Skip Garnish: Fresh parsley adds a pop of vibrant color and balances the sweetness of the glaze.
Monitor Cooking Time: Depending on the size of your carrot slices and the specific slow cooker, the cooking time may vary. Check for tenderness periodically.
Opt for Real Maple Syrup: Use pure maple syrup for a richer and more authentic glaze flavor. Avoid substitutes like pancake syrup.
Great for Special Occasions: This recipe is ideal for holiday menus when oven space is limited, as it’s prepared in a slow cooker.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 175
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 20mg