Glazed Carrots Maple Syrup (Print version)

Sweet and savory carrots glazed in buttery maple syrup, perfect as a flavorful side dish.

# Ingredient List:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 lb carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds

→ Sauce

02 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
03 - 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
04 - 1 tbsp brown sugar
05 - 1/2 tsp salt
06 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Garnish (optional)

07 - 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

# How To Make It:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add carrot slices and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until just tender. Drain thoroughly.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in maple syrup, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper until combined.
03 - Add drained carrots to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, for 6 to 8 minutes until the carrots are coated and the sauce thickens slightly.
04 - Transfer glazed carrots to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • They come together in under 30 minutes, yet taste like you've been slaving away all day
  • The buttery maple glaze is absolutely addictive—people will ask for seconds and want the recipe
  • Works beautifully for weeknight dinners and fancy holiday tables alike
  • Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, so everyone at the table can enjoy them
02 -
  • Don't skip the initial blanching step—I tried cooking the carrots straight in the glaze once and they stayed hard in the middle while the edges turned to mush. Blanching ensures even, perfect tenderness.
  • Keep the heat at medium during the glazing. Too high and your maple syrup will burn before the carrots are properly glazed. Too low and you'll be stirring forever. Medium is the sweet spot.
  • Freshly ground pepper makes an actual difference here. That sharp bite of fresh pepper against the sweet maple is what elevates this from good to memorable.
03 -
  • A pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg stirred into the glaze adds a subtle warmth that makes people wonder what the secret ingredient is
  • If you can't find pure maple syrup, honey is an excellent substitute, though it will be slightly less complex in flavor—adjust the brown sugar down by half a teaspoon so it doesn't become too sweet