Slow Cooker Glazed Carrots with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon
These tender glazed carrots cook hands-free in your slow cooker, developing a sweet, glossy coating from brown sugar, butter, and warm cinnamon. The orange juice adds brightness while cornstarch creates the perfect glaze consistency. This effortless side dish pairs beautifully with holiday roasts, weeknight dinners, or any meal needing a touch of comfort food sweetness. The long, gentle cooking transforms simple baby carrots into an elegant accompaniment that tastes like it required much more effort than it actually does.
Ingredients
- 2 lb baby carrots
- ¾ cup dark brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons water
Instructions
- 1
Rinse baby carrots with cold water and pour into crock pot
- 2
Add brown sugar, butter, orange juice, and cinnamon to crock pot and mix well to combine and break up brown sugar lumps
- 3
Mix cornstarch with water and pour into crock pot, mixing to combine
- 4
Cook on high for 4-5 hours or low 7 to 8 hours until carrots are tender
- 5
Serve as a side dish
Tips
Cut larger baby carrots in half lengthwise for more even cooking if your bag has mixed sizes
Stir halfway through cooking if possible to ensure even glazing and prevent sticking
Let stand 5 minutes after cooking to allow glaze to thicken before serving
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days in airtight container
Can be made 1 day ahead and gently reheated in microwave or stovetop
Serve warm as side dish, garnish with fresh herbs if desired
Common Mistakes
Add cornstarch slurry early to avoid lumpy glaze that won't smooth out
Don't skip rinsing carrots to remove excess dirt and debris
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use regular carrots instead of baby carrots?
Yes, cut regular carrots into 2-inch pieces. They may need slightly longer cooking time to become tender throughout.
What if my glaze is too thin?
Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water and stir into hot carrots. Let cook 10 more minutes to thicken.
How long will these keep in the refrigerator?
Store covered in refrigerator up to 4 days. Reheat gently in microwave or on stovetop, adding splash of water if needed.