Slow Cooker Amish Honey Glazed Carrots
The Sweet, Buttery Side Dish Everyone Reaches For First
Some of the best dishes are the simplest ones—the kind that require almost no hands-on time but deliver big, comforting flavor. These Slow Cooker Amish Honey Glazed Carrots are a perfect example. Gently cooked in a slow cooker, tender carrots are coated in a glossy honey-butter glaze infused with warm spices and a bright hint of citrus.
This is the kind of side dish that feels special enough for holidays yet easy enough for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and classic pantry ingredients, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.
This Recipe Is Perfect If You Want a Side Dish That:
- Keeps your oven free for main dishes
- Appeals to both kids and adults
- Works for holidays, potlucks, and everyday dinners
- Practically cooks itself while you focus on other things
Inspired by traditional Amish cooking, this dish transforms humble carrots into something rich, sweet, and comforting. The slow cooker gently caramelizes the glaze while keeping the carrots perfectly tender—never mushy. It’s farmhouse-style comfort food at its best.
Why You’ll Love These Honey Glazed Carrots
- Minimal effort: Just add everything to the slow cooker and let it do the work
- Family-friendly flavor: Sweet, buttery, and warmly spiced
- Holiday-ready: Saves valuable oven space
- Make-ahead convenience: Stays warm for hours without drying out
- Simple ingredients: Classic flavors with no fuss
Ingredients
Carrots
- 2 pounds fresh carrots, peeled and sliced into ½-inch coins or sticks
(Baby carrots work perfectly and need no prep)
Honey Butter Glaze
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ¼ cup orange juice or apple juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Warm Spices
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of ground cloves (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Finishing
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Orange zest (optional, for brightness)
How to Make Slow Cooker Amish Honey Glazed Carrots
Step 1: Prepare the Carrots
Cut the carrots into evenly sized pieces so they cook uniformly. Place them directly into the slow cooker.
Step 2: Mix the Glaze
In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, honey, brown sugar, juice, vanilla, spices, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the carrots and toss gently to coat.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook until the carrots are tender:
- Low: 4–5 hours
- High: 2–3 hours
For a thicker glaze, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
For an extra-rich finish, transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan and simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly reduced. Stir in an additional tablespoon of butter, then pour the glaze back over the carrots.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of orange zest if desired. Serve straight from the slow cooker or transfer to a warmed serving dish.
Helpful Tips for Best Results
- Use firm, brightly colored carrots for the best texture and flavor
- Cut carrots evenly to ensure consistent cooking
- Check early—slow cookers vary in heat
- Taste before serving and adjust sweetness or seasoning
- Add herbs at the very end to keep them fresh and vibrant
What to Serve with Honey Glazed Carrots
These carrots pair beautifully with:
- Roast turkey or chicken
- Holiday ham
- Meatloaf
- Pork chops
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice or grain pilaf
They’re also ideal for potlucks—the slow cooker doubles as a serving dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use baby carrots?
Yes. Use 2 pounds and skip the peeling and slicing.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook fully, then keep on the WARM setting for up to 3 hours.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes. Use vegan butter and replace honey with maple syrup.
What if the carrots turn out too soft?
Reduce the cooking time next time—slow cookers can vary in temperature.
