If you’re looking to impress at your next meal, try these Slow Cooker Brown Butter Honey Glazed Carrots. This simple recipe transforms everyday carrots into a sweet and buttery delight. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can achieve a beautifully glazed side dish that pairs well with any main course. Let’s dive into the steps and tips for creating this irresistible treat!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredient List
To make Slow Cooker Brown Butter Honey Glazed Carrots, gather these ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby carrots, washed and trimmed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/3 cup honey
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Tips for Selecting Carrots
When choosing carrots, look for bright orange baby carrots. They should feel firm and smooth. Avoid any that are soft or have spots. Fresh carrots taste better and look nice on the plate. If you can, buy organic carrots. They often have more flavor and fewer chemicals.
Alternative Ingredients
If you can’t find baby carrots, you can cut regular carrots into smaller pieces. You can also swap honey for maple syrup for a different flavor. For a vegan option, use coconut oil instead of butter. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you change the size of the carrots.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Carrots
Start with 2 pounds of baby carrots. Wash them well and trim the tops. Place the carrots in your slow cooker. Spread them out evenly so they cook well.
Browning the Butter
Now, take 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Melt it in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir it often for about 5 to 7 minutes. Watch closely as it turns a golden brown. It will smell nutty and delicious. Remove it from the heat before it burns.
Mixing the Glaze
In the same pan, add 1/3 cup of honey. Then, mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Add 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Whisk everything together until smooth and combined. This glaze will give the carrots a sweet and savory flavor.
Slow Cooking Process
Pour the brown butter and honey glaze over the carrots. Gently stir to coat them well. Cover your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. The carrots should become tender and nicely glazed. When done, drizzle 1 tablespoon of lemon juice over the carrots. Stir gently to mix everything together. Enjoy your sweet and savory treat!
Tips & Tricks
How to Get Perfectly Glazed Carrots
To get those shiny, glazed carrots, start with fresh baby carrots. They cook evenly and stay sweet. Cut larger carrots into similar sizes to match. Always brown the butter until it’s golden. This adds a rich flavor. After mixing in the honey and spices, pour it over the carrots. Stir gently to coat every carrot. Cooking on low heat gives the best texture. Don’t rush it; patience pays off.
Recommended Kitchen Tools
You need a slow cooker for this dish. Choose one that holds at least 4 quarts. A small saucepan is perfect for browning the butter. Use a whisk to mix the glaze well. A spatula helps coat the carrots without breaking them. For serving, grab a shallow bowl. This lets the glaze shine and looks great on the table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is burning the butter. Watch it closely and stir often. If you skip the thyme, the dish may taste flat. Don’t forget the salt; it balances the sweetness. Avoid cooking the carrots on high for too long; this can make them mushy. Lastly, don’t skip the lemon juice. It brightens the flavors after cooking.

Variations
Adding Different Herbs and Spices
You can change the flavor of your carrots by adding herbs and spices. Try using rosemary or dill for a fresh twist. If you love heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes works well. You can also add nutmeg for warmth or ginger for a zesty kick. These small changes can make your carrots shine in new ways.
Alternative Sweeteners
If you want to swap honey, consider maple syrup or agave nectar. They both add sweetness and flavor. For a lower-calorie option, use stevia or monk fruit sweetener. These alternatives will still give you that glazed finish without the extra calories. Just adjust the amount according to your taste.
Adjusting for Dietary Restrictions
You can easily modify this recipe to meet dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of butter. If you’re looking for a vegan option, replace honey with maple syrup. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious carrots. Always check labels on packaged ingredients to ensure they fit your dietary restrictions.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After you make your slow cooker brown butter honey glazed carrots, let them cool. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. Store them in the fridge for up to five days. Make sure to keep them covered to keep moisture in.
Reheating Instructions
When you are ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat them easily. Place the carrots in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to get even warmth. You can also reheat them on the stove. Simply add them to a pan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.
Freezing Tips
If you want to save some for later, freezing is an option. First, let the carrots cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.
FAQs
Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?
Yes, you can use regular carrots. Just cut them into smaller pieces. Aim for similar sizes so they cook evenly. Baby carrots are sweet and tender, but regular ones work well too.
How to adjust cooking times for larger carrots?
For larger carrots, cut them into thicker slices. Increase the cooking time by about 30 minutes. Check for tenderness with a fork. They should be soft but not mushy.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the carrots a day in advance. Cook them as directed and let them cool. Store in the fridge in an airtight container. Reheat them gently before serving.
What dishes pair well with glazed carrots?
Glazed carrots pair well with roasted chicken or beef. They also complement grain dishes like rice or quinoa. For a veggie spread, serve them with roasted potatoes or a fresh salad.
This blog post covered how to make delicious glazed carrots from start to finish. You learned about key ingredients, tips for cooking, and helpful tricks for perfect results. Remember to choose fresh carrots and avoid common mistakes. You can explore different flavors and store leftovers easily. Enjoy making this dish, and don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste. With practice, you’ll master glazed carrots that impress everyone. Happy cooking!
