Save Tender baby carrots glazed in a rich blend of bourbon, pure maple syrup, and butter create a sweet and savory side dish with a subtle boozy kick. This easy recipe is perfect for elevating your weeknight dinners or adding color to your holiday table.
I’ve been getting a lot of questions about the pot I use for cozy one-pot meals and small-batch recipes, so I wanted to quickly share it here.
This is the Martha Stewart heart-shaped enameled cast iron Dutch oven (2-quart). It’s one of those pieces I reach for constantly when testing soups, stews, baked casseroles, and smaller comfort-food recipes.
- Heats evenly with no hot spots (huge for slow cooking)
- Non-reactive enamel interior — no seasoning required
- Perfect size for small households or side dishes
- Sturdy handles, easy to move from oven to table
It’s also a favorite with home cooks — 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 1,900 reviews — and Amazon often has a coupon available, depending on color and size.
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When I first served these bourbon maple glazed baby carrots at a family gathering, they disappeared within minutes. The glossy glaze and delicate warmth from the bourbon always win rave reviews.
Ingredients
- Baby carrots: 1 lb (450 g), peeled and trimmed
- Unsalted butter: 2 tbsp
- Pure maple syrup: 3 tbsp
- Bourbon: 2 tbsp
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp, packed
- Kosher salt: 1/2 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): 1 tbsp, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil carrots:
- Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the baby carrots and cook for 5–7 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare glaze:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Glaze carrots:
- Add the drained carrots to the skillet. Toss to coat and cook, stirring frequently, for 8–10 minutes, or until the glaze thickens and the carrots are glossy and tender.
- Finish and serve:
- Remove from heat. Transfer the carrots to a serving dish and spoon any remaining glaze over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Save Gathering around the table with my family, these vibrant carrots are always one of the first sides to go. The kids love the sweetness, while adults appreciate the subtle warmth of bourbon.
Serving Suggestions
These glazed carrots shine alongside roasted meats, poultry, or vegetarian mains. They make an excellent addition to Thanksgiving or holiday spreads.
Ingredient Swaps
For a non-alcoholic version, use apple juice instead of bourbon. Add a pinch of cayenne for light heat or a splash of orange juice for extra brightness.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately 143 calories, 5 g total fat, 25 g carbohydrates, and 1 g protein.
Save 
This simple yet elegant side dish is sure to impress everyone at your next meal. The balance of sweet maple and subtle bourbon makes these carrots unforgettable.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make this dish without bourbon?
Yes, substituting apple juice for bourbon provides sweetness and moisture without the alcohol, maintaining a rich glaze.
- → How long should I cook the carrots before glazing?
Boil the baby carrots for 5 to 7 minutes until just tender to ensure a perfect texture before glazing.
- → What is the best way to achieve a glossy glaze?
Stir the carrots frequently in the skillet while cooking the glaze, allowing it to thicken and coat the carrots evenly.
- → Can I add a spicy or citrus twist to this dish?
Adding a pinch of cayenne brings a hint of heat, and a squeeze of orange juice adds brightness to enhance flavors.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, as long as all ingredients, including maple syrup and bourbon, are certified gluten-free, the dish meets gluten-free requirements.