Slow Cooker Amish-Style Glazed Carrots (Amish Sweet Harvest Joy)
Slow Cooker Amish-Style Glazed Carrots — also lovingly known as Amish Sweet Harvest Joy — are a beautiful reminder of how simple ingredients can create deeply comforting flavors. This slow cooker version transforms everyday carrots into a glossy, tender, sweet-savory side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats, holiday feasts, or classic Sunday dinners.
Rooted in Amish cooking traditions, this recipe highlights seasonal produce, pantry staples, and warm flavors that bring families together. Whether you enjoy them as part of a Thanksgiving spread or a weekday dinner, these glazed carrots will quickly earn a spot in your recipe collection.
🌾 Amish Cooking Traditions
The Amish approach to food celebrates simplicity, homegrown produce, and hearty dishes meant for sharing. Carrots are often abundant in Amish gardens, making them ideal for a variety of sweet and savory dishes. This glazed carrot recipe is a perfect example of how the Amish elevate everyday vegetables through gentle cooking and natural flavors.
Using a slow cooker mirrors the low-and-slow stovetop method common in Amish kitchens, allowing the ingredients to caramelize and thicken into a velvety glaze.
🥕 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Carrots, sliced | 2 lbs | Main vegetable base |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup | Adds sweetness and caramelization |
| Butter | 4 tablespoons | Provides richness and silky texture |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tablespoon | Balances sweetness with mild acidity |
| Cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon | Adds warmth and depth |
| Nutmeg (optional) | 1/4 teaspoon | Enhances the warm spice profile |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Balances flavors |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon | Helps thicken the glaze |
| Water | 1/4 cup | Combines with cornstarch for smooth thickening |
🍽️ Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare the Carrots
Wash, peel, and slice the carrots into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and helps the glaze coat each piece beautifully.
Step 2 — Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
Place the sliced carrots in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add brown sugar, butter, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt.
Step 3 — Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the carrots are tender but not mushy.
Step 4 — Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 1/4 cup water to form a smooth slurry.
Pour the slurry into the slow cooker and gently stir to combine.
Step 5 — Finish Cooking
Cover again and cook for an additional 20–30 minutes, or until the glaze thickens into a shiny, silky coating.
Step 6 — Serve & Enjoy
Serve warm as a comforting side dish for poultry, beef, ham, or holiday meals. These glazed carrots keep well and taste even better the next day!
💡 Tips for Perfect Amish-Style Glazed Carrots
- Use whole baby carrots for convenience—no chopping needed.
- Add a pinch of ginger for extra warmth.
- For a richer glaze, replace water with orange juice.
- Double the recipe for large family gatherings.
- Leftovers can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
📌 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients, big flavor.
- Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Sunday dinners.
- Slow cooker saves time and effort.
- Sweet, savory, buttery, and deeply comforting.
This Slow Cooker Amish-Style Glazed Carrots recipe brings warmth, simplicity, and classic heritage right to your table. A true celebration of harvest flavors!