• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Salted Plains
  • Home
  • About
  • Subscribe
  • Recipes
    • Breakfast & Brunch
    • Breads & Muffins
    • Cookies & Bars
    • Pies, Cakes, & Tarts
    • Ice Cream & Sorbet
    • Treats & Confections
    • Custards & Puddings
    • Drinks & Cocktails
    • Appetizers & Snacks
    • Entrees
    • Dairy-Free
    • Vegan
    • Savory
    • Travel Adventures
  • #14092 (no title)
  • Recipes
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Home
  • Spring Recipes
  • Recipes
  • About
  • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • RSS
    • Twitter
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Home
    • Spring Recipes
    • Recipes
    • About
    • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • RSS
    • Twitter
  • ×

    Salted Plains » Gluten-Free Basics

    5 Best Maple Syrup Substitutes

    Published: Apr 30, 2023 by Tessa · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    Looking for a healthier maple syrup substitute? Explore our guide to find the best alternatives such as honey, agave nectar, and brown rice syrup. Learn how to make the substitutions and keep your recipes sweet.

    A plate of pancakes with syrup being poured on top.
    Jump to:
    • What is maple syrup?
    • What is maple syrup used for?
    • What is a good substitute for maple syrup?
    • FAQs
    • Conclusion

    What is maple syrup?

    Pure maple syrup is a sweet, thick liquid that is made from the sap of a maple tree. It is a natural sweetener that is commonly used as a topping for pancakes, waffles, and French toast, and in a variety of recipes. 

    Maple syrup is primarily produced in the northeastern United States and eastern Canada, where maple trees are abundant. The process of making it involves tapping maple trees and collecting the sap. This is then boiled down to concentrate the sugars and create the syrup. 

    The color and flavor of can vary depending on the type of maple tree, the climate, and the processing method used. It boasts health benefits such as potassium, calcium, manganese, zinc, and amino acids. 

    Types

    There are four flavor classes within the United States classification system of Grade A maple syrup. Grades are based on color and flavor. The darker the color, the richer and stronger the flavor. This grading system is the same for pure Canadian maple syrup.

    Golden - the lightest in color, this golden syrup has a subtle flavor

    Amber - darker in color than Amber, this syrup has a full maple taste

    Dark - a dark amber color with an intense, rich flavor

    Very Dark - the darkest in color with a very intense, rich, distinct flavor

    What is maple syrup used for?

    Real maple syrup (as opposed to pancake syrup) is a versatile sweetener that can be used in a variety of ways and can be a healthier option than cane sugar. Here are some common uses:

    1. Topping for pancakes, waffles, and French toast.
    2. Sweetener for oatmeal and other hot cereals.
    3. Ingredient in baked goods: It can be used in place of sugar in many baked goods, such as muffins, cakes, bars, cookies, and other sweet treats.
    4. Glaze for meats like ham, pork chops, and salmon.
    5. Flavoring for coffee and tea.
    6. Ingredient in marinades, barbecue sauce, and salad dressings.
    7. Drizzle on roasted vegetables or fruit. It can be used to add sweetness to roasted vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts.

    What is a good substitute for maple syrup?

    If you don't have this delicious syrup on hand, what is the best option to achieve a similar level of sweetness?

    When looking for healthy alternatives, there are several options you can consider without artificial sweeteners. Some of the best healthy maple syrup substitutes include:

    1. Honey

    Honey is a natural sweetener that can be used in its place. It has a comparable consistency but is more viscous. With a similar sweetness and similar texture, it is not as sweet as but does have a bit stronger flavor. 

    It is a great alternative that can be used in baking, cooking, or as a sweetener for tea or coffee. When baking with honey, keep in mind that browning will occur faster. 

    To substitute: For every 1 cup of maple syrup, use ¾ to 1 cup of honey.

    2. Agave nectar

    Agave nectar is a liquid sweetener derived from the sap of the agave plant. Also referred to as agave syrup, it is a natural alternative sugar substitute to refined sugar and has a lower glycemic index. 

    It has a similar consistency but is slightly sweeter.

    To substitute, use a 1:1 ratio. One tablespoon of syrup for one tablespoon of agave.

    3. Coconut nectar

    Coconut nectar is a low-glycemic sweetener that is made from the sap of the flowers of the coconut palm. It has a similar consistency and sweetness level with a subtle coconut flavor and slight caramel notes.

    Like coconut sugar, it is a great option for those following a paleo diet. 

    Since coconut nectar has a lower glycemic index than maple syrup, it may take longer to caramelize or brown when used in baking or cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time or temperature accordingly.

    To substitute, use a 1:1 ratio. For every 1 cup of maple, use 1 cup of coconut nectar.

    4. Brown rice syrup

    Brown rice syrup is a thick syrup that is made from fermented brown rice. It has a mild flavor, darker amber color, and is less sweet. 

    It has a mild, nutty flavor that may affect the taste of the final dish, so you may need to adjust the other seasonings or flavorings in the recipe to compensate.

    Also, since brown rice syrup has a lower glycemic index than maple syrup, it may take longer to caramelize or brown when used in baking or cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time or temperature accordingly.

    To substitute, for every 1 cup of maple, use 1 ¼ cups of brown rice syrup.

    5. Date syrup

    Date syrup is a natural sweetener that is made from pureed dates. It has a thick consistency and a rich, caramel flavor. It's high in fiber, potassium, and antioxidants.

    To substitute, use a 1:1 ratio. For every 1 cup maple, use 1 cup of date syrup.

    A bottle of pure syrup.

    FAQs

    Is maple syrup vegan?

    Yes! The production process does not involve the use of any animal products or by-products, and the syrup itself does not contain any animal-derived ingredients.

    Does maple syrup need to be refrigerated?

    Pure syrup does not need to be refrigerated, but it should be stored properly in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it can be stored at room temperature for up to a year or in the refrigerator for up to a year and a half.
    If you live in a warm or humid climate, it's a good idea to refrigerate the syrup to prevent mold growth.

    Conclusion

    There are several good substitutes for maple syrup, including honey, agave nectar, coconut nectar, and brown rice syrup. Each of these substitutes has its own unique flavor profile and consistency, so it's important to choose the right one for your recipe.

    When substituting, be sure to adjust the ratio and liquid content accordingly and keep in mind the potential impact on the final flavor of your dish.

    « Is Baking Powder Gluten-Free?
    5 Best Buckwheat Flour Substitutes »

    Share this post:

    Share on PinterestShare on FacebookShare on TwitterShare on Email

    Reader Interactions

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

    Primary Sidebar

    Hi, I'm Tessa! I create gluten-free, real food recipes that are approachable and delicious.

    More about me →

    Memorial Day Recipes

    • This rich, moist Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake is a one-bowl recipe that uses wholesome almond flour and unrefined coconut sugar. Gluten-free, dairy-free.
      Gluten-Free Chocolate Zucchini Cake
    • raspberry cocktail with limoncello in glass
      Raspberry Limoncello Cocktail
    • Strawberry crisp in bowl with ice cream on top.
      Easy Strawberry Crisp (Gluten-Free)
    • A fruit tart on a marble platter.
      No-Bake Vegan Fruit Tart

    Popular Recipes

    • Corn Flour Pancakes with Strawberry Compote (gluten-free, dairy-free) | saltedplains.com
      Corn Flour Pancakes with Strawberry Compote
    • Granola bars lined up in a row on a piece of white parchment paper.
      Healthy Chewy Gluten-Free Granola Bars
    • How to make berry infused vodka for fun cocktail recipes.
      How to Make Berry Infused Vodka
    • Freshly cut chocolate brownies on white parchment paper.
      Easy Gluten-Free Brownies (Dairy-Free)
    • Cheesy bread rolls spread out on a piece of parchment paper.
      Vegan Brazilian Cheese Bread (Gluten-Free)
    • old fashioned cocktail with thyme garnish
      Old Fashioned Bourbon Thyme Cocktail
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
    • Twitter

    Footer

    ↑ back to top


    As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases that won’t change your price but will share some commission. Copyright © 2023 Salted Plains

    Work With Me

    Privacy Policy