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Slow Cooker Maple Baked Beans: A Cozy Fall Favorite

Slow Cooker Maple Baked Beans: A Cozy Fall Favorite

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WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?

  • My grandma’s secret ingredient was always a splash of maple syrup, adding depth and a whisper of sweetness.
  • Cooking these beans slowly in the crockpot fills my kitchen with warm, inviting aromas that remind me of chilly autumn days.
  • Perfect for lazy weekends—no fuss, just dump everything in and let it do its magic while I relax.
  • There’s something nostalgic about the sticky, caramelized edges that develop on the beans, like a familiar hug.
  • It’s a dish that feels like a gentle nod to tradition but works beautifully with modern flavors.

AVOID MY DISASTER (You’re Welcome)

  • FORGOT: To soak the beans overnight? They’ll cook unevenly—so add extra time and a splash of hot water.
  • DUMPED: Too much sugar? Overly sweet beans spoil the balance—adjust with a dash of vinegar before serving.
  • OVER‑TORCHED: Left the beans too long on high? Burnt bits make a bitter mess—line the crockpot with foil next time.
  • AFTER: Burning smell? Quick splash of water and a wooden spoon can save the batch—just keep the lid on.

QUICK FIXES THAT SAVE YOUR DAY

  • When beans are undercooked, add a splash of hot water and cook on high for another 20 minutes.
  • Splash in a little apple cider vinegar if the flavor leans too sweet or dulls.
  • Patch over a burnt bottom by removing unburnt beans and lining the pot with foil.
  • Shield overcooked beans with a fresh sprinkle of bacon bits or herbs for flavor.
  • When in doubt, simmer with a pinch of smoked paprika to add smoky richness and aroma.

As the leaves turn and the air cools, this dish captures the essence of cozy season. The slow cooking renders the beans tender and infused with sweet maple goodness, perfect for crisp fall evenings. It’s a simple, forgiving recipe that turns humble ingredients into something memorable.

Gathering around with warm bowls of these beans makes a straightforward meal feel special. The aroma alone sparks conversations and nostalgia. Sometimes, comfort is found in the slow,Sticky harmony of beans and maple, simmering away in a quiet corner of the kitchen.

Maple Glazed Slow Cooker Beans

This dish involves slow cooking dried or pre-soaked beans with a touch of maple syrup until tender, resulting in a sticky, caramelized exterior and a soft, hearty interior. The process emphasizes gentle simmering to develop rich flavors and a comforting, glazed finish on the beans.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 6 minutes
Calories: 250kcal
Author: James Taylor
Servings: 6

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Mixing Spoon

Ingredients

  • 1 pound dried white beans soaked overnight if possible
  • 2 cups water or vegetable broth
  • 0.25 cup maple syrup preferably pure maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon salt to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar optional, for balancing sweetness

Instructions

  • Rinse the beans thoroughly under cold water and drain well. Transfer them to the slow cooker and pour in the water or broth.
  • Drizzle the maple syrup over the beans, allowing it to coat the surface evenly. Add salt and black pepper for seasoning.
  • Stir everything gently with a mixing spoon until well combined. You should see the beans begin to look glossy from the syrup coating.
  • Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to low heat. Let the beans cook slowly for about 6 hours, until they are tender and start to caramelize around the edges.
  • Periodically check the beans and give them a gentle stir to prevent sticking and promote even caramelization.
  • Once the beans are tender and have developed a sticky, glazed appearance, stir in the apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors, if desired.
  • Turn off the slow cooker and allow the beans to rest for 5 minutes, so the flavors meld and the glaze thickens slightly.
  • Serve the beans warm in bowls, enjoying their soft, sticky texture and rich maple aroma.

Notes

For best results, soak the beans overnight to ensure even cooking. You can also add chopped herbs or crispy bacon bits as a garnish after cooking for extra flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 0.5g | Sodium: 400mg | Potassium: 600mg | Sugar: 15g | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 3mg

Whether you’re rustling up a quick weeknight dinner or preparing for a weekend gathering, these crockpot maple baked beans are a reliable choice. They bring a touch of sweetness and a lot of soul to any table, especially during the cooler months. The slow simmer unlocks flavors that are hard to achieve in rush recipes, making each bite worth the wait.

In a world filled with fleeting trends, this dish offers a steady dose of comfort rooted in tradition. Its sweet, smoky aroma and tender texture create a simple moment of joy. Sometimes, the best recipes are the ones that let you slow down and savor every bite.

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