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Cracker Barrel Glazed Carrots Recipe

The way these carrots turn glossy and tender in a buttery brown sugar glaze is downright addictive!

I always make extra because they disappear fast, and the leftovers—if there are any—are just as good the next day.

The balance of sweetness with just a little salt makes them taste even richer.

If you use fresh, full-sized carrots and slice them at an angle, they not only look better but hold their shape better in the glaze.

A little bit of cinnamon or nutmeg can be a great addition, but they’re just as good kept simple with butter and brown sugar.

This recipe takes hardly any time, but the results always get compliments, you’ll see!

How to Make Cracker Barrel Glazed Carrots

cracker barrel glazed carrots recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. Baby Carrots
  • 2 tbsp. Butter
  • 2 tbsp. Brown Sugar
  • 1 tsp. Salt
  • 1 cup Water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Rinse the baby carrots under cold water and drain them well.

You want them fresh and clean before you start cooking.

Step 2:

In a medium-sized pot, combine the water and salt.

Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3:

Add the baby carrots into the boiling water.

Cook them for about 7-8 minutes until they start to soften, but aren’t completely tender.

Step 4:

Drain the water from the pot, leaving the carrots inside.

Add in the butter and brown sugar, stirring gently to coat the carrots evenly.

Step 5:

Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.

Let them simmer for additional 5-6 minutes until the glaze is thickened and carrots are tender yet firm.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

cracker barrel glazed carrots on a plate

Choose Fresh Carrots

Using fresher carrots will give you the best flavor and a lil’ crunch even after cooking.

They should be bright orange and free from blemishes.

Adjusting Sweetness

If you prefer your dish less sweet, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar by half.

Feel free to experiment according to your taste preferences.

Enhancing Flavor

A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can be added to bring out the flavors even more.

These spices complement the sweetness of the glaze wonderfully.

Avoid Mushy Carrots

Keep an eye on your cooking time to prevent the carrots from becoming too soft or mushy.

Carrots should still have a slight bite to them.

Keep it Hot

Serve the glazed carrots immediately after cooking while they are still warm.

Serving them hot highlights their sweet and buttery flavors the best.

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Glazed Carrots

Roasted Chicken

When you’re thinking about homey comfort food, roasted chicken pairs beautifully with Cracker Barrel glazed carrots.

The savory flavors of the chicken play nicely with the sweet and buttery notes of the carrots.

It’s an easy match that’s sure to create a balanced plate at your dinner table.

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a traditional choice when serving glazed carrots.

The creamy texture of the potatoes and their mild flavor allow the carrots to shine.

Plus, the combination brings a warm, comforting vibe to any meal.

Grilled Salmon

Try something different by pairing your glazed carrots with grilled salmon.

The richness of the salmon works well with the sweetness of the carrots.

This pairing offers a lighter, yet satisfying option for dinner.

Couscous Salad

For something different, consider serving a couscous salad alongside your carrots.

Its light texture and subtle flavors can complement the glazed carrots nicely.

You can even add some dried fruits and nuts to keep things interesting and enjoyable.

Balsamic Brussels Sprouts

Spicing things up with balsamic Brussels sprouts can be a wonderful surprise.

Their bold and tangy flavor is a great counterbalance to the sweetness of the carrots.

The sprouts bring a nice depth of flavor to the table, making your meal more dynamic.

Spanakopita

This Greek pie filled with spinach and feta cheese offers a fun twist to your dinner.

The flaky pastry and savory filling are quite a match for the sweet and tender glazed carrots.

If you’re in the mood for a little adventure, this dish can bring something new and exciting to your table.

Variations and Substitutions

Substituting Ingredients

If you’d like a twist, swap the baby carrots for full-sized ones.

You’ll just need to slice them evenly to ensure even cooking.

For those exploring a sugar alternative, honey works well and adds a unique taste.

Vegetarian Alert! You can replace butter with olive oil to keep it plant-based.

Experimentation is key with this simple swap.

Trying Different Spices

Play around with spices!

Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.

You might also enjoy a light sprinkle of ginger for a bit of zing.

These small changes can offer surprising new flavors.

Cooking Method Alternatives

Got a slow cooker?

Try the slow cook method for tender carrots with just minimal effort.

Set them for about 6 to 8 hours on low, letting them soak in the flavors.

Your ovens could also be used if you prefer a roasted style.

Roasting brings out a different texture and caramelizes the glaze nicely!

How to Store Leftover Cracker Barrel Glazed Carrots

You might find yourself with some extra Cracker Barrel-style glazed carrots, perfect for enjoying later!

Storing them correctly will help maintain their flavor and texture, so let’s go through the steps together.

Airtight Containers

Use airtight containers to keep your glazed carrots fresh in the refrigerator.

This method prevents any unwanted odors from seeping in.

I always ensure the lids are well-sealed to lock in the deliciousness!

Refrigerator Time

Store your carrots in the refrigerator for up to four days.

This window is ideal for preserving their texture and sweetness.

Make sure to check them before eating if they’ve been in there a while!

Freezing for Longer Storage

Consider freezing the glazed carrots if you’re planning to store them beyond four days.

Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually first.

Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Carrots

You don’t want your carrots to become mushy, so aim for a tender yet firm texture.

It’s important to keep an eye on them; they should not cook more than necessary.

Trust me, a little crunch adds so much!

Ignoring the Glaze Consistency

The glaze is everything when it coats the carrots, so don’t let it become too runny.

A thin glaze won’t stick, and that’s a missed opportunity for flavor.

You’ll want it just thick enough to cling to every carrot piece.

Forgetting to Add Salt

Salt might seem simple, but it balances the sweetness of your glaze beautifully.

Without it, your carrots may taste flat and one-dimensional.

Using a pinch or two of salt can make all the difference.

cracker barrel glazed carrots recipe

Cracker Barrel Glazed Carrots Recipe

The way these carrots turn glossy and tender in a buttery brown sugar glaze is downright addictive!
I always make extra because they disappear fast, and the leftovers—if there are any—are just as good the next day.
The balance of sweetness with just a little salt makes them taste even richer.
If you use fresh, full-sized carrots and slice them at an angle, they not only look better but hold their shape better in the glaze.
A little bit of cinnamon or nutmeg can be a great addition, but they’re just as good kept simple with butter and brown sugar.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Side Dish
Servings 4
Ingredients
  
  • 1 lb. Baby Carrots
  • 2 tbsp. Butter
  • 2 tbsp. Brown Sugar
  • 1 tsp. Salt
  • 1 cup Water
Instructions
 
  • Rinse the baby carrots under cold water and drain them well.
  • You want them fresh and clean before you start cooking.
  • In a medium-sized pot, combine the water and salt.
  • Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
  • Add the baby carrots into the boiling water.
  • Cook them for about 7-8 minutes until they start to soften, but aren't completely tender.
  • Drain the water from the pot, leaving the carrots inside.
  • Add in the butter and brown sugar, stirring gently to coat the carrots evenly.
  • Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
  • Let them simmer for additional 5-6 minutes until the glaze is thickened and carrots are tender yet firm.

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Passionate chef, in love with everything related to food and cooking it to perfection!
Michael Cook
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