Name: Maple Pecan Glazed Carrots
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds carrots, peeled and sliced diagonally into 1/4-inch thick pieces; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped

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Maple Pecan Glazed Carrots are a sweet, buttery, and elegant side dish featuring tender carrots coated in a warm maple glaze and topped with crunchy toasted pecans. This recipe adds a festive touch to everyday dinners and makes a perfect addition to holiday spreads.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These glazed carrots strike the perfect balance between savory and sweet. The natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by pure maple syrup, while the toasted pecans bring richness and a satisfying crunch. This side is incredibly easy to make, yet it feels upscale and special enough for entertaining. Whether you’re cooking for the holidays or looking to dress up a weeknight meal, this dish delivers every time.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Carrots, peeled and cut into sticks or rounds
Maple syrup
Butter
Brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
Salt and pepper
Cinnamon (optional, for a warm flavor note)
Chopped pecans, toasted
Fresh thyme or parsley (optional garnish)

directions

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add carrots and cook for 6–8 minutes, until just tender. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in maple syrup, brown sugar (if using), salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
Add the cooked carrots and toss to coat in the glaze. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the glaze thickens slightly and coats the carrots.
Stir in toasted pecans and cook for 1 more minute.
Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Roasted Version: Roast the carrots instead of boiling for a caramelized depth of flavor.
Nut-Free: Skip the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds or crispy shallots.
Add Orange Zest: A touch of orange zest adds a fresh citrusy note.
Spicy-Sweet Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to contrast the sweetness.
Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Stir well before serving to redistribute the glaze. This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the texture of the carrots and glaze may change.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots?

Yes, baby carrots work well—just adjust cooking time as they may take slightly longer to soften.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare and glaze the carrots ahead, then reheat with a splash of water or butter before serving.

What kind of maple syrup should I use?

Use 100% pure maple syrup for the best flavor. Avoid imitation syrups with added sugars.

Can I toast the pecans in advance?

Yes, toasted pecans can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.

Are the carrots overly sweet?

The sweetness is balanced by butter, salt, and optional cinnamon or herbs. You can reduce the maple or sugar if desired.

Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?

Yes, honey can be substituted, though it will create a different flavor profile.

How do I toast pecans?

Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir frequently for 3–5 minutes until fragrant and golden.

Can I use frozen carrots?

Fresh is best for texture, but frozen can work if thawed and drained well before glazing.

What main dishes pair well with these carrots?

They’re perfect alongside roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, glazed ham, or turkey.

Can I make this in the oven?

Yes, roast the carrots with olive oil, then toss them in a maple butter glaze with pecans before serving.

Conclusion

Maple Pecan Glazed Carrots are a flavorful, elegant side dish that elevates any meal with minimal effort. Their beautiful color, tender texture, and irresistible sweet-savory glaze make them a standout on both casual and festive tables. Whether you’re hosting or just looking for a new go-to side, this recipe is sure to impress.

Maple Pecan Glazed Carrots

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Tender carrots are glazed in a luscious maple syrup sauce and topped with crunchy toasted pecans, making this dish a perfect accompaniment to any meal, especially during the holiday season.

Author: Beth
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

2 pounds carrots, peeled and sliced diagonally into 1/4-inch thick pieces
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped

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Instructions

Cook the Carrots:
- Place the sliced carrots in a large skillet or saucepan.
- Add enough water to just cover the carrots and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to medium and simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the carrots are just tender but not mushy.
- Drain the carrots and set them aside.
Prepare the Glaze:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the maple syrup and ground cinnamon (if using), and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is heated through and slightly thickened.
Glaze the Carrots:
- Return the cooked carrots to the skillet with the maple syrup mixture.
- Add the salt and pepper, and stir well to ensure the carrots are evenly coated with the glaze.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are heated through and nicely glazed.
Toast the Pecans:
- While the carrots are glazing, place the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Toast the pecans for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Be careful not to burn them.
Serve:
- Transfer the glazed carrots to a serving dish.
- Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the top.
- Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Variations: For added depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange juice to the glaze.
Make-Ahead Tip: You can cook the carrots and prepare the glaze in advance. When ready to serve, reheat the glaze, add the carrots, and proceed with the recipe from step 3.
Serving Suggestion: This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats and makes a festive addition to holiday meals.