Maple Glazed Baby Carrots
Sweet and savory baby carrots glazed with maple syrup and butter, topped with fresh parsley; a perfect side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place carrots in a saucepan of salted boiling water.
- Cook for 6 to 10 minutes, until tender.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 2 minutes.
- Remove garlic from the skillet.
- Add maple syrup to the skillet.
- Whisk to blend the syrup and butter.
- Drain the cooked carrots and add them to the skillet.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Saute the carrots over high heat for 15 minutes or until they brown.
- Dust with minced fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter instead of regular unsalted butter. If you don’t have baby carrots, you can cut regular carrots into bite-sized pieces. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the sweetness of the maple syrup. For an extra kick, try incorporating a dash of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with this dish.
Serving Suggestions
These maple glazed baby carrots make a delightful side dish for roasted meats or vegetarian recipes like stuffed bell peppers. They pair particularly well with dishes like Chocolate Jimmy Cake for dessert, creating a balanced meal. Garnish with minced fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve alongside your favorite seasonal salads.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover maple glazed baby carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra butter to prevent drying out. You can also microwave them in short bursts until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maple Glazed Baby Carrots contains roughly 1833 calories, with 3g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 203g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (233% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen baby carrots for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen baby carrots, but they may need a longer cooking time to become tender. Be sure to thaw them first and adjust the sautéing time to ensure they brown nicely in the skillet.
What can I substitute for maple syrup?
If you don't have maple syrup, you can substitute honey or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. However, note that the flavor profile will change slightly, as maple syrup has a unique taste that enhances the dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the carrots and glaze ahead of time. Simply cook the carrots and toss them with the glaze, then refrigerate. Reheat them in a skillet just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).