If you’ve ever eaten at Cracker Barrel, you probably remember their buttery, sweet side of baby carrots. These Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots are tender, lightly glazed, and unbelievably comforting. The good news? You can make this copycat version at home with just a handful of ingredients in less than 30 minutes. Let me walk you through how to whip them up and serve them at your next family dinner or holiday feast.
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Why You’ll Love Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
- Quick and simple: four ingredients, one pot, 20 minutes of cooking.
- Family favorite: kids adore the sweet glaze, adults love the balance of flavors.
- Versatile: pairs with roasts, chicken, pork chops, or even weeknight casseroles.
- Holiday-ready: add a fresh herb garnish, and these carrots shine on any festive table.
For another hearty vegetable dish to pair with this recipe, check out easy collard greens and ham hocks.
Ingredients for Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
- 2 pounds baby carrots (or peeled and sliced regular carrots)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
How to Make Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
- Wash carrots and place them in a medium saucepan. Cover with water.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 6–7 minutes. Drain half the water.
- Add butter, brown sugar, and salt. Stir until melted and combined.
- Cover again and cook for another 6–7 minutes, until carrots are tender but not mushy.
- Adjust seasoning, garnish with herbs, and serve warm.
Pro tip: Using broth instead of water adds extra depth of flavor.
Tips for the Best Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
- Mind the texture: Don’t overcook; you want tender carrots with a little bite left.
- Flavor upgrades: Try maple syrup, honey, or even orange zest in the glaze.
- Make ahead: Peel/slice carrots up to two days early and refrigerate in an airtight container.
- Storage: Leftovers keep in the fridge for 2–3 days. Reheat in the microwave or gently on the stove.
Pair these with a main like Italian meatloaf for weeknight dinner for a classic combo.
Serving Suggestions
- Holiday spread: Perfect alongside turkey, ham, or prime rib.
- Everyday dinners: Complements baked chicken, pork chops, or fish.
- Colorful plates: The bright orange glaze makes a striking side with mashed potatoes or greens.
Looking for another comforting pairing? Try this creamy Benigni’s potato soup recipe.
Variations on Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
- Maple twist: Swap brown sugar for maple syrup for a smoky sweetness.
- Citrus glaze: Add orange zest or lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
- Spiced version: Sprinkle paprika or chili powder for a gentle kick.
- Slow cooker method: Combine ingredients in a crockpot and cook on low until tender.
For more inspiration, see butternut squash and sweet potato recipes.
FAQs
Yes, just peel and slice them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Carrots are full of vitamins and fiber. The butter and sugar add indulgence, but you can scale down if preferred.
Yes, prep the carrots early. Cook right before serving for the best texture.
They’re fantastic with roasts, fried chicken, or even pasta dishes. Try pairing them with chicken francaise for a restaurant-style dinner at home.
Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
These Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots are tender, lightly glazed, buttery, and sweet—just like the classic side dish from the restaurant, but made easily at home in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby carrots (or peeled and sliced regular carrots)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional: fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish
Instructions
- Wash carrots and place them in a medium saucepan. Cover with water.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 6–7 minutes. Drain half the water.
- Add butter, brown sugar, and salt. Stir until melted and combined.
- Cover again and cook for another 6–7 minutes, until carrots are tender but not mushy.
- Adjust seasoning, garnish with herbs, and serve warm.
Equipment
Notes
Pro tip: Using broth instead of water adds extra depth of flavor. Don’t overcook—the carrots should be tender but still have a slight bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Final thoughts
These Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots prove that a simple side dish can steal the spotlight. With just a few ingredients and less than half an hour, you can recreate that iconic Cracker Barrel taste right in your kitchen. Whether for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings, they bring color, comfort, and just the right touch of sweetness to any meal.
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