Elevate your side dish game with this irresistible recipe for Maple-Glazed Carrots with Cinnamon and Butter. These carrots are simmered until tender, then coated in a glossy, fragrant glaze made from real maple syrup, warm cinnamon, and rich butter. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday gathering or a weeknight dinner, this dish brings color, natural sweetness, and comforting spice to the table in under 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love Maple-Glazed Carrots with Cinnamon and Butter
- Naturally sweet and bursting with flavor
- Easy and quick, ready in under half an hour
- Aromatic and comforting, thanks to cinnamon and butter
- Perfect for holidays, but simple enough for everyday meals
- Pairs well with roasted meats, poultry, or vegetarian entrees
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs carrots, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds or sticks
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Carrots
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, add the sliced carrots and enough water to just cover them.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and simmer for about 8–10 minutes, or until the carrots are fork-tender but not mushy.
- Drain the water and return the carrots to the pan.
Step 2: Glaze the Carrots
- Reduce heat to low.
- Add the butter to the pan and stir until melted and coating the carrots.
- Pour in the maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt (and nutmeg, if using).
- Stir to combine, cooking for an additional 4–5 minutes, until the glaze thickens slightly and coats the carrots.
Step 3: Season and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or a dash of pepper.
- Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy the rich, buttery sweetness with every bite.
Tips & Variations
- Use baby carrots for ease and presentation. Adjust cooking time slightly if using whole carrots.
- Make ahead: You can parboil the carrots ahead of time and finish glazing just before serving.
- Add texture: Toasted pecans or walnuts make a great topping for crunch.
- Vegan option: Swap butter for vegan butter or olive oil.
- Try different spices: A pinch of ginger or allspice adds an extra dimension.
Perfect Pairings
- Roasted turkey or chicken
- Glazed ham or pork chops
- Quinoa salad or wild rice pilaf
- Holiday spreads with stuffing and cranberry sauce
Small Ingredients List & Instructions (Quick Reference)
Ingredients:
- 1½ lbs carrots
- 2 tbsp butter
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- Nutmeg & pepper (optional)
Instructions:
- Boil sliced carrots for 8–10 mins; drain.
- Add butter, syrup, cinnamon, and seasonings. Stir 5 mins until glazed.
- Garnish and serve warm.
