How to Use Maple Syrup in Your Everyday Cooking
The Best Uses for Vermont Maple Syrup: Sweet, Savory & Everything in Between!
With its rich, robust flavor and all-natural roots, Vermont maple syrup is more than just a pancake topper - it's a kitchen essential that belongs in your pantry year-round!
Whether you’re a home cook, a breakfast enthusiast, or simply a lover of local products, here are some of the best ways to use Vermont maple syrup in your kitchen (and beyond):
1. The Classics: Pancakes, Waffles, and French Toast
Let’s start with the obvious: a drizzle of warm Vermont maple syrup on a stack of fluffy pancakes or golden waffles is breakfast perfection. Even French toast becomes next-level with a splash of syrup.
Pro Tip: Warm the syrup before pouring—it enhances the flavor!
2. Maple Glazed Everything
Maple syrup shines as a glaze. Its caramelized sweetness pairs well with savory dishes like:
- Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes.
- Proteins such as salmon, pork chops, chicken thighs, or ham.
- Tofu or tempeh for a plant-based twist.
Mix maple syrup with Dijon mustard, soy sauce, or balsamic vinegar for a quick, gourmet glaze.
3. Sweeten Your Coffee or Tea
Skip the processed sugars and artificial creamers - a spoonful of Vermont maple syrup adds subtle sweetness and earthy depth to hot drinks. Plus, it dissolves easily, making it a great natural alternative to sugar.
4. Maple Syrup in Baking
Maple syrup can be used in cakes, muffins, cookies, and breads. It adds moisture, a touch of sweetness, and that unmistakable flavor.
Try it in:
- Banana bread
- Pumpkin muffins
- Oatmeal cookies
- Glazes for scones or bundt cakes
5. Elevate Your Cocktails
Craft bartenders know maple syrup makes a fantastic mixer! Use it in place of simple syrup for a deeper, more complex sweetness.
Cocktail ideas:
- Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned
- Maple Whiskey Sour
- Maple Moscow Mule
6. Maple Butter or Compound Butters
Just mix softened butter with a few tablespoons of maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt and use it on toast, cornbread, pancakes, or warm biscuits. Store extras in the fridge—it’s dangerously good!
7. Drizzle Over Ice Cream or Yogurt
Forget store-bought caramel or chocolate sauce. A touch of maple syrup over vanilla ice cream, Greek yogurt, or frozen berries brings dessert to a whole new level. Add chopped nuts or granola for crunch.
8. Make a Maple Vinaigrette
Combine maple syrup, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and salt to create a sweet-and-tangy dressing that pairs beautifully with fall salads, roasted squash, or grain bowls.
9. Natural Sweetener for Oatmeal & Smoothies
Ditch the flavored packets and stir maple syrup directly into cooked oats, or blend into smoothies for a healthier way to sweeten breakfast. It adds a natural richness without overpowering the other ingredients.
10. A Thoughtful Gift or Souvenir
Even if you’re not using it in your own kitchen, Vermont maple syrup makes a meaningful gift. Tuck a small bottle into a holiday basket, bring one back from your travels, or ship a set to friends and family out of state. It’s a sweet way to share a little piece of beautiful Vermont!
Whether you use it in marinades or muffins, Vermont maple syrup is more than just a sweet treat. It’s a versatile, natural ingredient that elevates almost any dish. The next time you pick up a bottle, think beyond breakfast and explore all the delicious possibilities!
Got a favorite maple recipe or creative use? Share it via email with us—we’d love to hear how you enjoy your syrup!