Slow Cooker Amish Honey Glazed Carrots

Step-by-step instructions

Let’s dive into the preparation! Follow these simple steps to create your Slow Cooker Amish Honey Glazed Carrots:

Prep the Carrots: Peel the carrots and slice them into uniform 1/2 inch coins or sticks. Place them in your slow cooker.
Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, brown sugar, orange juice, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional cloves until combined.
Combine: Pour the glaze mixture over the carrots. Toss them gently to coat evenly.
Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. Ensure the carrots are tender but not mushy. Remove the lid during the last 30 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker glaze, transfer the liquid to a saucepan and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until reduced. Return it to the carrots and stir in an additional tablespoon of butter before serving for an extra shine.
Serve: Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of orange zest, and enjoy warm.

Best ways to enjoy it

These Slow Cooker Amish Honey Glazed Carrots shine when served on a beautiful platter next to your main course. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

Pair them with roasted chicken or glazed ham for a perfect balance of flavors.
Serve alongside mashed potatoes and green beans for a traditional family dinner.
Drizzle a little extra honey over the top just before serving for added sweetness.

Storage and reheating tips

Have leftovers? Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Refrigeration: Place any leftover carrots in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: While not ideal for every dish, you can freeze the glazed carrots in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of orange or apple juice to regain moisture if necessary.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few tips to make your cooking experience even smoother:

Uniform Cutting: For even cooking, ensure the carrot pieces are similar in size.
Glazing Options: Add a splash of bourbon to the glaze for a grown-up twist or substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Spice it Up: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices based on your taste. A touch of ginger or allspice could add a unique flavor!

Creative twists

Here are some variations to keep the recipe exciting:

Maple Glaze: Swap out honey for pure maple syrup for a rich, earthy flavor.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch.
Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts before serving for extra texture.

Common questions

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

Overall, you’ll spend about 15-20 minutes prepping the ingredients, and then let the slow cooker do its magic for 2-5 hours based on your cooker settings.

Can I use canned or frozen carrots?

While fresh carrots yield the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen carrots. Just be aware that they may cook faster and might not hold their texture as well.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is already gluten-free, as all ingredients used (like honey and butter) are free from gluten. Just ensure your brown sugar is also gluten-free.

Can I make these carrots ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them the day before and simply reheat them on the stove or microwave before serving.