Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots Recipe
This Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots recipe delivers tender, buttery carrots coated in a rich, sweet glaze. With honey, brown sugar, maple syrup, and warm spices, this effortless side dish is perfect for holidays or cozy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 3 hours hrs
Total Time 3 hours hrs 10 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 175 kcal
- 2 pounds carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch diagonal slices
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice, or orange zest for stronger flavor
- Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Mix the Glaze
In a small mixing bowl, combine the honey, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, ginger, salt, pepper, vanilla extract, and orange juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth and fragrant.
Add Carrots to Slow Cooker
Reduce the Glaze (Optional)
For a thicker glaze, transfer the cooked carrots to a serving dish. Simmer the remaining liquid in a saucepan for several minutes until glossy and slightly reduced, then pour it back over the carrots.
- Use baby carrots to save preparation time; they may require slightly longer cooking.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle sweet-heat contrast.
- Swap maple syrup for balsamic glaze for deeper flavor complexity.
- Reduce the glaze on the stovetop for a thicker, glossy finish.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat gently to prevent the carrots from becoming mushy.
Keyword Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots Recipe