Maple Glazed Carrots bring a delightful balance of sweet and savory to your table in just 25 minutes. The tender, caramelized carrots are coated in a glossy maple glaze that’s rich with warmth and depth. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, followed by a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s both comforting and indulgent. This dish is a perfect blend of natural sweetness and earthy flavors, making it a standout side for any meal.
Packed with vitamins and fiber, these carrots are as nutritious as they are delicious. The maple glaze adds a touch of elegance, while the hint of butter creates a velvety finish. Quick to prepare yet impressive in flavor, this recipe is a simple way to elevate your dinner routine. Serve it up and watch it become an instant favorite!
What You’ll Need for Maple Glazed Carrots
- 1 lb (453 g) carrots (cut into 2”x1 ½” sticks for even cooking)
- ½ cup (118 ml) water (helps steam and soften the carrots)
- 1 ½ Tablespoons salted butter (unsalted butter works too; just adjust salt to taste)
- 2 Tablespoons light brown sugar (firmly packed for a rich glaze)
- 1 Tablespoon maple syrup (use pure maple syrup for the best flavor)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (optional, but adds a lovely herbal note)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (plus additional to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (plus additional to taste)
How to Make Maple Glazed Carrots
- Combine ingredients: Add all ingredients to a skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until the butter is melted.
- Bring to a boil: Increase heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently.
- Simmer and cook: Reduce heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for 8-10 minutes or until the carrots are just tender when pierced with a fork.
- Reduce the glaze: Remove the lid and cook on medium-high, stirring frequently, until the water evaporates and the carrots are coated in a glossy glaze.
- Season to taste: Taste-test the carrots and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve warm and enjoy!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
These Maple Glazed Carrots are a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled pork chops, or even a holiday ham. For a complete meal, serve them alongside mashed potatoes and a fresh green salad. Pro tip: Garnish with extra thyme sprigs for a pop of color and added aroma.
Make It Your Own: Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? Try using honey instead of maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. For a savory twist, add a pinch of garlic powder or a splash of balsamic vinegar. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunchy finish.
Quick Tips for Time-Saving Success
To save time, prep your carrots the night before by cutting them into sticks and storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to cook, simply grab and go! Bonus tip: Use pre-packaged baby carrots for an even quicker option—just adjust the cooking time slightly since they’re smaller.
Storage & Reheating Made Easy
Leftovers? No problem! Store your glazed carrots in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to revive the glaze. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the carrots mushy.
Equipment Essentials for Perfect Carrots
A large skillet with a lid is key for this recipe—it ensures even cooking and helps the carrots steam to perfection. If you don’t have a lid, use a baking sheet or foil to cover the skillet. A sharp knife and cutting board will also make prepping the carrots a breeze.
Maple Glazed Carrots
Ingredients
- 1 lb carrots cut into 2”x1 ½” sticks
- ½ cup water
- 1 ½ Tablespoons salted butter
- 2 Tablespoons light brown sugar firmly packed
- 1 Tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme optional
- ¼ teaspoon salt plus additional to taste
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper plus additional to taste
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently until butter is melted.
- Increase heat to medium high and bring to a boil, stirring frequently.
- Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes or until carrots are just tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove lid and cook, stirring frequently, on medium-high until water is evaporated and carrots are glazed.
- Taste-test and add additional salt/pepper if needed.