Slow Cooker Maple & Brown Sugar Glazed Carrot – A Sweet Side You Can Set and Forget

If your holiday menu needs a star side dish, let me introduce you to the Slow Cooker Maple & Brown Sugar Glazed Carrot. It’s the cozy, sweet twist your Thanksgiving table’s been waiting for. And guess what? It pretty much cooks itself while you worry about the turkey, stuffing, and (let’s be real) not burning the rolls.

This recipe checks all the boxes for busy cooks: minimal prep, hands-free cooking, and flavors that taste like a warm hug. The maple syrup and brown sugar blend into a velvety glaze that coats each tender carrot like it was made to be there. And thanks to your slow cooker, the magic happens while you’re off doing a million other things. If you’re looking for another take on this comforting classic, check out this version of Slow Cooker Maple Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots over at Dash for Dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Maple & Brown Sugar Glazed Carrot

First of all, it’s practical. When oven space is limited—and it always is on Thanksgiving—this recipe gives you one less thing to juggle. Toss everything into the Crock-Pot and let it do its thing.

Second, it’s delicious. We’re talking sweet, buttery carrots with hints of cinnamon and maple—like candied veggies, in the best way.

Third, it’s kid-friendly. Even picky eaters have a hard time resisting these caramelized beauties. (And if you have little veggie skeptics at home, this might just be your secret weapon.)

Ingredients You’ll Need for Slow Cooker Maple & Brown Sugar Glazed Carrot

• 2 pounds baby carrots (or 1 1/2 pounds whole carrots, peeled and sliced)
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/3 cup butter, cubed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• Optional: Fresh thyme for garnish

Easy Steps to Sweet Carrot Perfection

1. Prep the Carrots:
If you’re using whole carrots, give them a quick peel and slice into 1-2 inch pieces. Baby carrots work perfectly here too and save you time—bless them.

2. Make the Glaze:
Mix together brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. You can add a dash of orange juice or a pinch of garlic powder for a little extra zing.

3. Combine in Slow Cooker:
Toss the carrots in a 5-6 quart slow cooker. Pour the glaze over them, then scatter butter cubes on top. Give it all a gentle stir.

4. Cook:
Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 5-6 hours, until the carrots are fork-tender. Stir once or twice if you can.

5. Thicken That Glaze (Optional):
Want that glossy, sticky finish? Remove the lid for the last 30 minutes on HIGH. Or transfer the glaze to a saucepan and simmer it down for a few minutes.

6. Serve and Garnish:
Sprinkle with fresh thyme if you’re feeling fancy. Serve warm and watch them disappear.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

• Prep in Advance: Peel and slice your carrots the day before. Store in water in the fridge. Mix your glaze ingredients and keep separately.
• Leftovers: Store glazed carrots in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Fun Variations to Try

• Swap the Sweetener: Use honey or agave nectar if maple syrup isn’t your thing.
• Add Fresh Herbs: A little thyme or rosemary adds an earthy contrast to the sweetness.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a holiday spice twist.

FAQs

A Sweet Ending

This Slow Cooker Maple & Brown Sugar Glazed Carrot recipe is more than just a side dish—it’s a sanity-saver, a crowd-pleaser, and a sneaky way to get your kids to eat more veggies. It’s especially handy for Thanksgiving when the kitchen turns into a juggling act of timers, dishes, and last-minute gravy-making.

And once you taste that sweet, buttery glaze? You’ll wonder why you ever made carrots any other way. Trust your Crock-Pot, give this recipe a try, and watch your guests go back for seconds.

More Cozy Sides and Seasonal Favorites to Try

If you’re planning your Thanksgiving spread or just love cozy, comforting meals, here are a few more crowd-pleasers to add to your menu:

• Pair these glazed carrots with this buttery, pull-apart treat: try our Cranberry and Brie Holiday Pull-Apart Bread for a sweet-savory bite that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
• For a classic and hearty pairing, our Crock-Pot Beef Tips and Gravy delivers tender beef in a rich, comforting sauce—just right alongside your veggie sides.
• Need something to soak up all that deliciousness? These Garlic Bread Rolls are soft, fluffy, and buttery—ideal for passing around the Thanksgiving table.
• Don’t miss this cheesy, golden comfort dish: our Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes bake up bubbly and are a timeless favorite on any holiday table.
• Looking for a fun, festive appetizer? Our Pumpkin Patch Deviled Eggs bring a seasonal twist to a classic bite—adorable and delicious!

These recipes blend beautifully with the sweet notes of our Slow Cooker Maple & Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots, making your next meal both stress-free and unforgettable.

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