Maple Syrup

Maple Syrup is a natural sweetener derived from the sap of maple trees, predominantly the sugar maple. It is a seasonal product, with the sap collected during the early spring when the trees are thawing. The syrup is a staple in Canadian and Northeastern American cuisines and is commonly used to drizzle over pancakes and waffles, sweeten oatmeal, or glaze meats. Its rich, caramel-like flavor and smooth texture make it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes, as well as in baking and cocktail making.

Maple Syrup Synonyms

Quebec syrup
Canada syrup

Maple Syrup Substitutes

Different Forms/Types of Maple Syrup

Maple Cream

Maple syrup that has been cooked down and stirred until it reaches a creamy, spreadable consistency.

Maple Sugar

Dehydrated maple syrup that has been crystallized into granules or powder, used as a sweetener.

Maple Flakes

Dehydrated maple syrup pressed into flakes, convenient for topping and garnishing.

Pure Maple Syrup

Liquid syrup tapped directly from the sugar maple tree, then boiled down to concentrate its flavors. Available in various grades.

How to Choose Maple Syrup

When selecting maple syrup, look for 100% pure maple syrup with no added ingredients. The label should indicate the grade, which reflects the color and flavor intensity. Grade A is further divided into four categories: Golden Color with Delicate Taste, Amber Color with Rich Taste, Dark Color with Robust Taste, and Very Dark with Strong Taste. Choose the grade based on your flavor preference for the intended use. Organic certification and non-GMO labels can also be indicators of quality.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Maple Syrup

Maple syrup, a natural sweetener derived from the sap of maple trees, is a versatile ingredient that can add depth and complexity to a variety of dishes. For intermediate and expert home cooks, it's important to consider the grade of maple syrup being used. Darker syrups, like Grade A Dark Color, Robust Taste (formerly Grade B), have a stronger maple flavor and are better suited for cooking and baking, where their flavor can shine through. Lighter syrups are more delicate and are often used as toppings or in beverages. When cooking with maple syrup, be mindful of its sugar content; it can burn easily if exposed to high heat. To prevent this, it's often added towards the end of the cooking process or used in recipes where it can be heated gently. Additionally, maple syrup can be used as a substitute for other sweeteners; generally, you can replace 1 cup of white sugar with 3/4 cup of maple syrup and reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe by 3 tablespoons.

Shelf Life of Maple Syrup

Store unopened maple syrup in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate to maintain freshness and prevent mold. Maple syrup can also be frozen to extend its shelf life; it won't freeze solid due to its high sugar content. Maple sugar, cream, and flakes should be stored in airtight containers in a cool, dry place to prevent clumping and preserve flavor.

Recommended Brands for Maple Syrup

Maple Cream: Coombs Family Farms, Maple Valley Cooperative

Maple Sugar: Coombs Family Farms, NOW Foods

Maple Flakes: Decacer, Maple Grove Farms

Pure Maple Syrup: Crown Maple, Butternut Mountain Farm, Coombs Family Farms

Cooking Techniques for Maple Syrup

Baking: Incorporate maple syrup into batters and doughs for baked goods to impart a rich, caramel-like sweetness. It can also be used to sweeten whipped creams and frostings.

Glazing: Maple syrup is an excellent glaze for meats and vegetables. Brush it on towards the end of the cooking time to create a shiny, flavorful coating without burning the syrup.

Reduction: Gently simmer maple syrup to reduce it into a thicker sauce. This concentrates the flavor and can be used as a drizzle over desserts or savory dishes.

Popular Maple Syrup Recipes

Maple Glazed Salmon
Maple Walnut Scones
Pumpkin Spice Pancakes with Maple Syrup

Maple Syrup Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 0.1 g
fiber: 0 g
sugar: 60 g
protein: 0 g
calories: 260 kcal
carbohydrates: 67 g

Flavor Combinations

Maple syrup pairs exceptionally well with autumnal spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, enhancing warm, spicy notes. It also complements the natural sweetness of root vegetables, such as carrots and sweet potatoes, and fruits like apples and pears. In savory dishes, maple syrup can balance the saltiness of bacon or the richness of roasted nuts. Dairy products, especially butter and cream, work well with maple syrup to create a smooth, velvety texture in sauces and desserts.