10 Unexpected Maple Syrup Substitutes You Need to Try

The term 'real' is so closely linked to maple syrup that it feels like part of its name. This is because many imitations—brown liquids posing as the genuine article—are out there. Don’t be deceived; only the real maple syrup is worth it.

Beyond its iconic role at breakfast, what is maple syrup really used for? Can it be used in cooking, or is it strictly for pancakes? And what happens if you run out? We've got answers to all your sticky questions.

What Exactly Is Maple Syrup?

Maple syrup is a thick, sweet liquid derived from the sap of maple trees. In early spring, sap is collected and then boiled down into a rich, flavorful syrup. This all-natural sweetener is native to North America.

Maple syrup is available in three main grades: Grade A Golden, Grade A Amber, and Grade A Dark. The grading depends on the syrup's color and the timing of sap collection. The later in the season the sap is tapped, the darker the syrup will be.

The so-called 'pancake syrup' is usually just corn syrup. It's typically no more than 3% pure maple, with many brands containing only a hint of maple flavoring—far from the real thing.

While pancakes and waffles are the first foods that come to mind when you think of syrup, it also makes a great glaze for meats or vegetables and works wonders as a marinade, especially when paired with a savory ingredient like soy sauce.

Why Consider a Maple Syrup Substitute?

No one wants to disappoint family members waiting eagerly for syrup on their pancakes. But if you're out, it's good to have a backup ready. Maple syrup is also a common ingredient in many recipes, so being unprepared can lead to a sticky situation.

Find the recipe here: Jen's Maple Pumpkin Pie

Top 10 Maple Syrup Alternatives

Honey

With its amber hue, honey is a great alternative to maple syrup. While it may be a bit sweeter, its texture is quite similar, just slightly thicker.

The only noticeable difference in flavor might be when using it as a topping for your breakfast. In baked goods, the difference is almost undetectable. Simply substitute honey for maple syrup in equal amounts.

Corn Syrup

You might already be using corn syrup on your pancakes! If you have some leftover from a Thanksgiving pecan pie, it's a perfect maple syrup substitute in baking, as long as you use equal amounts. While it won’t add the same rich caramel flavor, dark corn syrup will offer a deeper taste than the light variety.

Simple Syrup

To make simple syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat over medium while stirring until the sugar dissolves, then let it cool. It's a straightforward way to substitute maple syrup in recipes. Use 1 cup of simple syrup for every 2/3 cup of maple syrup. While it’s not ideal for topping pancakes, it works great in baking and cocktails.

Brown Sugar Syrup

To make brown sugar syrup, follow the same steps as for simple syrup, but substitute brown sugar for white sugar. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla for every ½ cup of brown sugar. Use it in the same proportion as you would regular simple syrup.

Sugar

Sugar can be used as a stand-in for maple syrup when baking or cooking. However, it’s not ideal for topping waffles with just plain sugar.

Since sugar is less sweet than maple syrup and is a dry ingredient, adjustments are needed. For every cup of maple syrup, use 1 cup of sugar and increase the other liquids in the recipe by 3 tablespoons.

Find the recipe here: Maple Mustard Meatballs

Brown Sugar

If you're opting for a dry ingredient, brown sugar is a better choice than plain sugar. It helps retain those rich caramel notes. Use it in the same way you would regular sugar.

Molasses

Light molasses is the closest match to maple syrup, making it the better option over dark molasses. Dark molasses will work, but it adds a stronger, more bitter flavor that can alter the taste. It’s also not ideal for topping waffles. Use in a 1:1 ratio.

Coconut Nectar

For those looking for a natural sweetener swap, coconut nectar is a great choice. Extracted from the sap of coconut trees, it doesn’t taste like coconut at all. Instead, it has a rich caramel flavor similar to maple syrup. It’s a bit less sweet and deeper in flavor. Use it 1:1, and feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking, but remember: you can always add, but you can’t take away.

Agave Nectar

Agave nectar, derived from the agave plant, is another natural substitute. Its golden hue resembles honey, but its texture is more like maple syrup. It works well in baking, glazes, marinades, dressings, or cocktails. Use ¾ of the amount you’d use for maple syrup due to its stronger sweetness.

Brown Rice or Date Syrup

Brown rice syrup is a great alternative for those monitoring their sugar intake. Made from fermented brown rice, it has a lower sugar content than most sweeteners and ranges in color from amber to golden brown, depending on the brand. The flavor is nutty with a butterscotch-like richness. Use ¼ more than the amount of maple syrup called for in the recipe.

Date syrup is a thick, sweet reduction made from cooked dates. It's perfect for adding to marinades, desserts, dips, or glazes.

Choosing the Right Substitute for You

If you just want to top your breakfast foods, consider alternatives like chocolate sauce, jam or jelly, fresh or roasted berries, powdered sugar, or whipped cream. Otherwise, your best option depends on what you have in your pantry and how crucial that authentic maple flavor is to your dish.