Crockpot Irish Whiskey Glazed Carrots

Tender, sweet, and buttery carrots slow-cooked in a rich glaze made with Irish whiskey, brown sugar, and honey—perfect as a St. Patrick’s Day side dish! This easy slow-cooker recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the carrots while adding a touch of warmth from cinnamon and a subtle kick from the whiskey.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking – The slow cooker does all the work, making it a hands-off side dish.
• Rich, Balanced Flavors – The combination of brown sugar, honey, and Irish whiskey creates a sweet and savory glaze.
• Perfect for Holidays – A festive side dish that pairs well with any St. Patrick’s Day or holiday meal.
• Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch ahead of time and reheat when needed.
• Kid-Friendly Option – The alcohol cooks off, leaving just the deep, caramelized flavors behind.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• carrots, peeled and sliced
• unsalted butter, melted
• brown sugar
• honey
• Irish whiskey (such as Jameson)
• cinnamon
• salt
• black pepper
• fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Carrots – Peel and slice the carrots into uniform pieces for even cooking.
2. Make the Glaze – In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, honey, whiskey, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
3. Combine in Slow Cooker – Add the sliced carrots to the slow cooker and pour the glaze over them. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Slow Cook – Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, until the carrots are tender.
5. Finish and Serve – Stir the carrots before serving and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4 hours
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: Approximately 190 kcal per serving

Variations

• Make It Non-Alcoholic – Substitute apple cider or orange juice for the whiskey.
• Spicy Twist – Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Citrus Flavor – Stir in a bit of orange zest for a fresh, zesty touch.
• Maple Syrup Substitute – Swap the honey for maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
• Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover glazed carrots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooled carrots in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use baby carrots instead of sliced carrots?

Yes, baby carrots work well and require no slicing, but they may need a slightly longer cooking time.

Will the whiskey make the dish taste boozy?

No, the alcohol cooks off during slow cooking, leaving behind a deep, caramelized flavor without any harshness.

What type of whiskey should I use?

Any Irish whiskey, such as Jameson or Bushmills, works best, but you can use any whiskey you prefer.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of in a slow cooker?

Yes, simmer the carrots in a saucepan over medium-low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

How do I make this dish vegan?

Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil instead of butter, and swap honey for maple syrup or agave.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can cook the carrots ahead of time and reheat them before serving. The flavors will deepen as they sit.

What should I serve with whiskey-glazed carrots?

These carrots pair well with roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or any hearty Irish dish like shepherd’s pie or corned beef.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, just ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra volume. Cooking time may increase slightly.

How do I keep the carrots from becoming too soft?

If you prefer firmer carrots, check for doneness at the lower end of the cooking time and reduce liquid slightly.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, parsnips or sweet potatoes can be added for extra variety, but adjust cooking times as needed.

Conclusion

Crockpot Irish Whiskey Glazed Carrots are a simple yet flavorful side dish perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any occasion. The slow-cooked carrots absorb the rich, buttery glaze, creating a dish that’s both sweet and savory with a touch of warmth from the whiskey and cinnamon. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!