Bourbon Maple Glazed Carrots

Featured in: Main Dishes

This dish features tender carrots cooked until just firm, then coated in a luscious glaze made from bourbon, pure maple syrup, butter, and brown sugar. The glaze caramelizes on gentle heat, creating a glossy, sweet, and subtly smoky coating. Enhanced with salt, pepper, and an optional fresh parsley garnish, this side is both easy to prepare and full of complex, warming flavors ideal for holidays or special dinners.

Updated on Tue, 11 Nov 2025 13:18:00 GMT
Tender bourbon maple glazed carrots shimmering in a rich, buttery sauce.  Save
Tender bourbon maple glazed carrots shimmering in a rich, buttery sauce. | cheerfulchefs.com

Tender carrots glazed with a rich blend of bourbon, pure maple syrup, and butter for a sweet, savory, and subtly boozy side dish perfect for holidays or special dinners.

This recipe quickly became a family favorite whenever we need a comforting and elegant side.

Ingredients

  • Vegetables: 1 lb (450 g) carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch sticks
  • Glaze: 2 tbsp unsalted butter 2 tbsp pure maple syrup 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey 1 tbsp light brown sugar 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Garnish: 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Add the carrots and cook for 5 7 minutes, until just tender but still slightly firm Drain and set aside
Step 2:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter Add maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, salt, and pepper Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to bubble, about 2 minutes
Step 3:
Add the drained carrots to the skillet Toss well to coat Cook, stirring frequently, for 8 10 minutes, until the glaze thickens and the carrots are glossy and caramelized
Step 4:
Transfer the carrots to a serving dish Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired Serve warm
Sweet and savory bourbon maple glazed carrots, perfect for festive gatherings.  Save
Sweet and savory bourbon maple glazed carrots, perfect for festive gatherings. | cheerfulchefs.com

We always enjoy sharing this with family at holiday dinners, making warm memories together.

Required Tools

Large pot Colander Large skillet Wooden spoon or spatula Sharp knife and cutting board

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (butter) May contain traces of gluten if bourbon is not certified gluten-free Always check labels for allergens if using pre-packaged ingredients

Nutritional Information

Calories: 130 Total Fat: 5 g Carbohydrates: 21 g Protein: 1 g

Deliciously caramelized bourbon maple glazed carrots garnished with fresh parsley. Save
Deliciously caramelized bourbon maple glazed carrots garnished with fresh parsley. | cheerfulchefs.com

This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and elevates any meal with its delicious glaze.

Recipe FAQs

How do I achieve the perfect carrot texture?

Boil the carrots until just tender but still firm, about 5–7 minutes, to avoid mushiness and maintain a pleasant bite.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version?

Yes, substitute bourbon with apple juice to maintain warmth and sweetness without alcohol.

What gives the glaze its rich flavor?

The combination of pure maple syrup, bourbon, butter, and brown sugar creates a balanced sweet and savory glaze with caramel undertones.

Is there a recommended garnish for serving?

Chopped fresh parsley adds a fresh herbal note and brightens the dish visually.

What dishes pair well with these glazed carrots?

They complement roasted poultry, pork, or other hearty main courses, enhancing holiday and special dinner menus.

Bourbon Maple Glazed Carrots

Tender carrots coated in a buttery maple and bourbon glaze, perfect for festive side dishes.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Overall Time
30 minutes
Creator Ruby Smiles

Recipe Type Main Dishes

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Background American

Portions 4 Serves

Dietary Preferences Vegetarian-Friendly, Gluten-Free Option

What You’ll Need

Vegetables

01 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch sticks

Glaze

01 2 tbsp unsalted butter
02 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
03 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey
04 1 tbsp light brown sugar
05 1/2 tsp kosher salt
06 1/4 tsp black pepper

Garnish

01 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 01

Blanch Carrots: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add carrots and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until just tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.

Step 02

Prepare Glaze: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, salt, and pepper until the sugar dissolves and mixture bubbles, about 2 minutes.

Step 03

Glaze Carrots: Add drained carrots to the skillet. Toss to coat thoroughly. Cook, stirring frequently, for 8 to 10 minutes until glaze thickens and carrots are glossy and caramelized.

Step 04

Serve: Transfer carrots to a serving dish. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Sharp knife and cutting board

Potential Allergens

Inspect ingredients for specific allergens and contact a professional for concerns.
  • Contains dairy (butter).
  • May contain gluten if bourbon is not certified gluten-free.
  • Check labels for allergens when using pre-packaged ingredients.

Nutritional Details (Per Serving)

Provided as supportive info; always cross-check with your healthcare provider.
  • Calories: 130
  • Fats: 5 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 21 grams
  • Proteins: 1 grams