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–+ servings
Cracker barrel carrot copycat recipe
Pamela Dunlap

Cracker Barrel Carrot Recipe

Before diving into the delightful details of Cracker Barrel carrots, you might wonder what to serve alongside this sweet and savory dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 130
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons creamy margarine or unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon rich brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 pounds tender baby carrots
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon for warmth and depth
  • ½ teaspoon orange zest to enhance the natural sweetness of carrots
  • 1 pinch ground nutmeg optional

Equipment

  • Large pan

Method
 

  1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. This step will save time later. Rinse and peel the baby carrots if needed. Pat them dry.
  2. In a large pan over medium heat, melt the creamy margarine or unsalted butter. You should see it bubbling gently. The sizzle will set the stage for the sweeter flavors to blend in.
  3. Once the butter has melted, add the brown sugar, salt, and spices. Stir it well. The sugar should start to dissolve, forming a beautiful base.
  4. Now, toss in the baby carrots. Stir them around to fully coat them in the buttery mixture. The warmth will begin tenderizing the carrots.
  5. Cover the pot with a lid. Lower the heat to medium-low to allow the carrots to steam. Cook for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The goal is tender carrots with a glossy glaze.
  6. Once tender, remove the pan from heat. You can sprinkle with extra cinnamon or zest if desired. Now, serve your lovely Cracker Barrel carrots warm, enjoying the sweet aroma wafting around.

Nutrition

Calories: 130kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 1gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gFiber: 3gSugar: 9g

Notes

  • Use Fresh Carrots – For the best flavor, choose fresh baby carrots over the pre-packaged ones.
  • Don’t Rush the Cooking – Allow enough time for the flavors to blend. Patience yields better flavor.
  • Experiment with Spices – Feel free to add other spices like ginger or allspice for a twist.
  • Add a Splash of Orange Juice – For a fruity brightness, a tablespoon of orange juice can further enhance the flavor.
  • Garnish for Presentation – Consider fresh parsley or mint for a pop of color on the dish when serving.

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