Maple Syrup Substitute

You might need a Maple Syrup Substitute for many reasons, but that doesn’t mean you need to compromise the flavor. Here are some alternatives to try instead of using maple syrup.

Maple syrup substitute in a syrup dispenser.

Maple syrup is a sweet and delicious syrup that has been enjoyed for centuries. It’s a popular topping for pancakes such as Maple Syrup Pancakes, waffles, and French toast, and can be used in various baking recipes such as Million Dollar Bacon. However, maple syrup can be quite expensive and may not be readily available in some areas.

What can I use if I don’t have maple syrup?

If you don’t have maple syrup, there are several substitutes that you can use, including honey, agave nectar, brown rice syrup, molasses, and corn syrup. Each of these substitutes has its own unique flavor and sweetness level, so you may need to adjust the other ingredients in your recipe to ensure a balanced flavor profile.

When choosing a substitute, consider the recipe you’re making and the flavor profile you’re trying to achieve. It’s important to note that while these substitutes can be used in some recipes they may not work for all. Below are the best substitutes for maple syrup.

1. Homemade Maple Syrup

While Homemade Maple Syrup does not have the same depth of flavor as real maple syrup it is a similar flavor and texture. It can also provide a similar sweetness level and viscosity in recipes where the flavor of maple is not a crucial component. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare at home. Follow the recipe below.

2. Honey

Honey is a natural sweetener that can be used as a substitute for maple syrup. It has a similar texture and flavor profile and can be used in the same quantity as maple syrup in most recipes. However, honey has a distinct flavor, which can be overpowering in some recipes.

3. Molasses

Molasses is a thick, dark syrup that is commonly used in baking. It has a distinct flavor that is different from maple syrup, but it can be used as a substitute in some recipes. Molasses is less sweet than maple syrup, so you may need to use more of it to achieve the same level of sweetness in your recipe.

4. Brown Rice Syrup

Brown rice syrup is a natural sweetener made from brown rice. It has a mild flavor and can be used in the same quantity as maple syrup. However, brown rice syrup is not as sweet as maple syrup, so you may need to use more of it to achieve the same level of sweetness in your recipe.

7. Corn Syrup

Corn syrup is a sweet, viscous syrup that can be used as a substitute for maple syrup in some recipes. However, corn syrup is highly processed and contains high levels of fructose, which can be harmful to your health when consumed in large quantities.

8. Agave Nectar

Agave nectar is another natural sweetener that can be used as a substitute for maple syrup. It has a mild flavor and can be used in the same quantity as maple syrup. Agave nectar is much sweeter than maple syrup, so you may need to adjust the amount you use in your recipe accordingly.

9. Golden Syrup

Golden syrup can be used as a substitute for maple syrup in some recipes. It has a similar texture and sweetness level. It’s important to note that gold syrup has a distinct flavor of its own, which may not be suitable for all recipes.

To use the golden syrup as a substitute for maple syrup, you can typically use it in the same quantity as the recipe calls for maple syrup. However, because gold syrup has a different flavor profile, you may need to adjust the other ingredients in the recipe to ensure that the overall flavor is balanced.

Additional Maple Syrup Alternatives

Some substitutes for maple syrup are better than others because they provide a more similar flavor profile and texture to maple syrup. Others have distinct flavor profiles that may not be suitable for all recipes. The choice of a substitute depends on the recipe you’re making and the flavor profile you’re trying to achieve.

Ultimately, the best substitute for maple syrup depends on the recipe you’re making and your personal preferences. Here are some additional maple syrup substitutes that will also work, but either has a different flavor or consistency entirely.

  • Simple Syrup – Simple syrup can be used as a substitute for maple syrup in some recipes. It’s important to note that it will not provide the same flavor as maple syrup. When using simple syrup as a substitute for maple syrup, use it in the same quantity as the recipe calls for.
  • Brown Sugar Syrup – Brown Sugar Syrup can be used as a substitute for maple syrup in some recipes. It’s important to note that it will not provide the same flavor. You can typically use it in the same quantity as the recipe calls for maple syrup. However, because brown sugar syrup is not as thick as maple syrup, you may need to adjust the other liquid ingredients
  • Demerara Syrup – Demerara Syrup is made from demerara sugar, which has a distinct molasses-like flavor that can complement some recipes, but it does not have the same maple flavor as maple syrup.
  • Coconut Nectar – Coconut nectar is made from the sap of coconut blossoms, and it has a mild, caramel-like flavor that can complement some recipes, but it does not have the same distinct flavor as maple syrup. Depending on the recipe, you may need to add a small amount of maple extract or vanilla extract to mimic the flavor of maple syrup.
DIY maple syrup in a syrup dispenser.

DIY Maple Syrup

While store-bought maple syrup is readily available, making your own homemade maple syrup can be fun and cost-effective. DIY Maple Syrup is made using pantry staples and takes only minutes.
5 from 1 vote
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Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 10 ounces
Calories: 202kcal
Author: Aimee Mars

Equipment

  • Saucepan

Ingredients

  • cups Brown Sugar
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 cup Water
  • 1 tablespoon Maple Extract

Instructions

  • Dissolve the sugars. Place the water, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer and then reduce the heat to low, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved. Let it continue to cook for 5 minutes.
  • Add the flavoring. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the maple extract. As it cools it will begin to thicken.

Notes

  • Cook the syrup on low heat: Cooking the syrup on low heat can help prevent it from burning or becoming too thick.
  • Stir the syrup regularly: Stirring the syrup regularly can help prevent it from sticking to the pan and burning
  • Add the maple extract at the end: Adding the maple flavoring at the end of the cooking process can help preserve its flavor and aroma. Don’t have or can’t find maple extract? Try some Maple Extract Substitutes.
 

Storage Information

To store homemade maple syrup, you should first let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer the syrup to a clean, airtight container with a secure lid, such as a glass jar or plastic bottle.
Store the container in the refrigerator to keep the syrup fresh for as long as possible. Properly stored, homemade maple syrup can last for several weeks in the refrigerator.
 
 
When using the syrup, be sure to give it a good stir or shake before pouring, as it may have separated or thickened during storage.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 202kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 0.04g | Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 11mg | Potassium: 44mg | Sugar: 52g | Calcium: 28mg | Iron: 0.2mg
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About The Author

Aimee

I’m thrilled you’ve stopped by my space here and love to connect with new friends through food. I’ve always felt sharing meals brings people together, which is one of the many reasons I began this site.

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