Maple Cinnamon Glazed Carrots

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 15 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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Maple Cinnamon Glazed Carrots are a delightful way to elevate the humble carrot into a sweet and savory side dish that fits perfectly on any fall or holiday table. With the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg and the natural sweetness of maple syrup, these carrots offer a comforting flavor profile that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients for Maple Cinnamon Glazed Carrots

The star of the show is, of course, the carrots. When cooked, they become tender and slightly sweet, providing the perfect canvas for our glaze. Butter is used to sauté the carrots, adding a rich flavor and helping to create a silky glaze. The maple syrup is the hero ingredient that adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and a hint of spice that complement the sweetness beautifully. Finally, a touch of salt and black pepper balances the flavors, while fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness if you choose to include it.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use whole carrots rather than pre-cut baby carrots for better flavor and texture.
  • If your glaze is too thin, let it simmer for a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • For even cooking, make sure your carrot sticks are of similar size.
  • Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the glaze.

Serving Suggestions

These Maple Cinnamon Glazed Carrots pair wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken, turkey, or pork. They also complement vegetarian mains such as a hearty lentil loaf or mushroom risotto. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside a cranberry sauce or a savory stuffing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use baby carrots instead of whole carrots?
Yes, you can use baby carrots, but keep in mind they may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is there a substitute for maple syrup?
Honey or agave syrup can be used as substitutes, though they will slightly alter the flavor.
Can this dish be made vegan?
Yes, simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like olive oil or vegan butter.

Maple Cinnamon Glazed Carrots Recipe Walkthrough

Start by peeling the carrots and slicing them into uniform sticks. This ensures they cook evenly. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and slightly foamy, add the carrots to the skillet. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and start to soften.

Next, pour in the maple syrup and sprinkle the cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper over the carrots. Stir everything together so the carrots are evenly coated. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You're looking for the carrots to become tender and for the glaze to thicken slightly and coat the carrots nicely.

Once they’re done, transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish. If you like, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and a hint of fresh flavor. Serve them warm and enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or holiday dinners.
  • Uses pantry staples that you likely already have on hand.
  • The sweet and spicy glaze transforms ordinary carrots into a gourmet side dish.
  • Can be made ahead and reheated, saving you time on the day of your gathering.

Ingredients

1 lb whole carrots
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp pure maple syrup
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Peel the carrots and slice them into uniform sticks.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the carrots to the skillet and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the maple syrup and sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
5. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are tender and glazed, about 10 minutes more.
6. Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

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