Step 1: Prepare the Carrots
Peel and slice your carrots into even-sized pieces so they cook uniformly. You can use baby carrots for convenience, but full-sized carrots have a slightly richer flavor when sliced fresh.
Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, maple syrup (if using), salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Combine in the Slow Cooker
Add the carrots to the slow cooker and pour the glaze over them. Stir gently to ensure all the pieces are evenly coated.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on:
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High for 2½ to 3 hours, or
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Low for 5 to 6 hours, until the carrots are tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Thicken the Glaze (Optional)
If you’d like a thicker, stickier glaze, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also stir in the cornstarch slurry at this stage, then cover and cook for another 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once done, give the carrots a gentle stir to coat them evenly in the glaze. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color.
5. Cooking Tips for the Best Results
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Uniform sizes matter: Evenly cut carrots ensure consistent cooking.
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Avoid overcooking: Carrots should be tender but still hold their shape. Check toward the end of the cooking time.
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Use real butter or quality vegan butter: This gives the best flavor and consistency in the glaze.
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Don’t skip the salt: A pinch of salt balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
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Double the recipe for a crowd: The slow cooker can easily handle up to 4 pounds of carrots in a 6-quart model.
6. Variations to Try
Candied carrots are endlessly versatile. Try one of these delicious twists:
Maple Cinnamon Carrots
Replace brown sugar with pure maple syrup and add a touch more cinnamon for cozy, fall-inspired flavor.
Orange-Glazed Carrots
Add 1 tablespoon of orange zest and ¼ cup of orange juice for a bright, citrusy glaze that pairs beautifully with roasted meats.
Herb-Infused Carrots
Reduce the sugar slightly and add fresh thyme or rosemary for a savory-sweet side dish.
Coconut Candied Carrots
Use coconut oil instead of butter, and stir in 2 tablespoons of coconut milk for a subtle tropical twist.
Spiced Honey Carrots
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a sweet-and-spicy flavor combination.
7. Serving Suggestions
These slow cooker candied carrots complement just about any meal. Here are some ideas:
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Holiday Dinners: A perfect side for roasted turkey, ham, or vegan roast.
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Weeknight Meals: Serve alongside baked tofu, seared tempeh, or grilled chicken.
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Comfort Food Plates: Pair with mashed potatoes, stuffing, or green bean casserole.
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Brunch: They also pair surprisingly well with savory breakfast casseroles or quiches.
Their sweet glaze also makes them a hit with kids — a delicious way to sneak in extra vegetables!
8. Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigerate:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
Freeze:
You can freeze candied carrots for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Reheat gently to maintain texture.
Reheat:
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Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.
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Stovetop: Warm over low heat with a splash of water or butter until heated through.
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Slow cooker: For large batches, reheat on low for about 1 hour.
9. Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
(Based on 6 servings)
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Calories: 180
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Carbohydrates: 24g
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Sugar: 17g
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Fat: 8g
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Fiber: 3g
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Protein: 1g
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Sodium: 160mg
Note: Values will vary depending on ingredients used (especially if using vegan butter or sugar alternatives).
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use frozen carrots?
A: Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture. Cooking time may be slightly shorter.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Absolutely. Substitute vegan butter or coconut oil for regular butter.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: Yes! Start with ⅓ cup of brown sugar and taste before serving. The natural sweetness of carrots still shines through.
Q: How do I make it ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the glaze and carrots the night before, refrigerate, and start the slow cooker the next day.
11. Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy, one-pot preparation
Perfect balance of sweet and savory
Great for holidays or everyday meals
Kid-friendly and budget-friendly
Naturally gluten-free and adaptable for vegan diets
This dish proves that simple ingredients — butter, sugar, and carrots — can come together to create something truly special. The slow cooker does all the hard work, infusing the carrots with rich caramel flavor while keeping them tender and flavorful.
12. Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Candied Carrots are more than just a side dish — they’re a celebration of comfort cooking at its best. Sweet, buttery, and perfectly glazed, they bring color and warmth to any table. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply craving a cozy vegetable dish, this recipe delivers every time.
With their glossy finish and melt-in-your-mouth texture, these carrots prove that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most memorable. So pull out your slow cooker, grab a bag of fresh carrots, and let time work its magic — because once you try these candied carrots, they might just become a family tradition.
