Introduction
This side dish takes humble carrots and transforms them into something special: buttery, brown-sugar glazed, softly tender, and lightly spiced. Inspired by the straightforward, wholesome cooking style of the Amish community, it uses the convenience of a slow cooker so you can set it and forget it while focusing on other parts of your meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday spreads when you want ease without sacrificing flavor.
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Ingredients
For approximately 6 servings:
2 pounds (≈ 900 g) carrots, peeled and sliced (or cut into uniform bite-sized pieces)
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup (≈ 60 ml) unsalted butter, melted
¼ cup (≈ 60 ml) water
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
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Instructions
1. Prepare the carrots: peel if necessary and slice them into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
2. Place the sliced carrots in the slow cooker.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, water, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and cinnamon until the sugar begins to dissolve.
4. Pour the mixture over the carrots in the slow cooker and stir gently to coat the carrots evenly.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for about 4-5 hours, or until the carrots are tender (a fork should pierce them easily).
6. Toward the end of cooking you may remove the lid for the last 10–15 minutes (optional) to allow the glaze to thicken slightly.
7. Stir the carrots again before serving, making sure each piece is glazed.
8. Transfer to a serving dish and serve warm.
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Description
The finished dish presents tender carrots coated in a glossy, buttery brown-sugar glaze with a subtle hint of vinegar tang and a warm note of cinnamon. The sweet and savory balance makes the carrots feel special but still comforting. The slow cooking helps the carrots absorb the glaze while retaining shape and avoiding mushiness. It’s a side dish that elevates ordinary carrots into a flavorful accompaniment for roasted meats, holiday dinners, or simply a cozy weeknight meal.
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Tips
Cut the carrots into even-sized pieces so they cook at the same rate.
Use fresh, firm carrots rather than older, soft ones for the best texture.
If you find the glaze too thin at the end, remove the lid near the end of cooking to let excess moisture evaporate so the glaze becomes thicker.
Stir once or twice during cooking if possible, to distribute the glaze and ensure even coating.
Use a slow cooker liner or spray the pot lightly for easier cleanup.
Taste before serving and adjust seasoning if needed—if the glaze is too sweet you might add a tiny bit more vinegar or a pinch more salt.
If serving ahead of time, keep warm on the slow-cooker “warm” setting or transfer to a dish and re-warm gently, adding a splash of water if the glaze has thickened excessively.
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Variations & Corrections
Variations:
For a less sweet version: reduce the brown sugar to ⅓ cup, or replace part of it with honey or maple syrup.
Add texture: stir in toasted pecans or walnuts just before serving, or top with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of green.
Add flavor twist: include 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger, or add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth.
Vegan version: swap the butter for a plant-based butter or coconut oil.
Alternative root veggies: you could substitute or mix in sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or beets for a seasonal variation.
Corrections/What to watch out for:
If the carrots turn out mushy, they were likely over-cooked or cut too small—reduce cooking time or use larger pieces next time.
If the glaze remains watery, remove the lid near the end of cooking to allow reduction, or transfer the liquid to a saucepan and simmer to thicken.
Avoid using canned or already-cooked carrots; they will become too soft in the slow cooker.
Ensure the slow cooker is not set too high; the Low setting gives better texture and allows flavors to develop.
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Enjoy
Serve these glazed carrots warm alongside your favorite roasted chicken, pork, or beef dish. They also make a lovely addition to holiday spreads (Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc.). The sweet-but-balanced glaze and soft texture will invite seconds. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the simple pleasure of one of the most comforting vegetable sides you’ll ever make.