Pure maple syrup. It’s something I recommend to vegans and omnivores as a sweetener in many foods and recipes because I’ve learned that many people use syrup concoctions that while they are vegan are just high fructose corn syrup with maple flavoring. It’s often that when you use these products that you have to use more than you typically would with pure maple syrup to achieve that same maple-y taste. Plus, while it seems like pure maple syrup has more calories compared to syrup concoctions, it’s actually not the case as again most of the time you will use less maple syrup and you would use an abundance of table syrup. Can you relate??
Also, it’s important to note that there are different grades of syrup and depending on what you’re using the syrup in or for may determine what grade you should be looking for (and this will also affect the price point). The maples syrups I’m reviewing today are great all purpose options but if you need a refresher on what grade you should be looking for, check out the handy guide below…otherwise jump to the best maple syrups!
Grade A Light Amber – This maple syrup is very light in color and has a very mild, almost delicate taste and would not be good for baking or recipes
Grade A Medium Amber – This syrup has a deeper color and flavor and would be good for dressings, recipes, baking, or drizzling on pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal.
Grade A Dark Amber – The most robust and deepest flavor maple syrup. Dark Amber would only be great for pancakes and waffles if you like super robust taste but would do great in recipes!
Grade B – This maple syrup is also very dark and robust and tends to be cultivated at the end of the season.
Commercial Grade – This maple syrup is used for processing and you wouldn’t find this on the grocery store shelves.
The 5 Best Pure Maple Syrups
5. Barred Woods 100% Pure Maple Syrup
What We Love: Barred Woods Maple Syrup is a smaller family operated maple syrup operation in Vermont that produces high quality, medium, amber colored maple syrup that’s robust enough for pancakes and waffles but not overpowering and can still be used in recipes.
Considerations: Because it’s a smaller operation, Barred Woods Maple Syrup tends to be a bit more expensive per ounce but you are supporting small, local businesses.
4. Butternut Mountain Farm Maple Syrup
What We Love: Butternut Mountain Maple Syrup is a smooth and rich all-around great maple syrup that comes in both Amber and Dark Robust – so you have options depending on your personal preference! Both are fantastic but the amber is better suited for your all-around needs.
Considerations: This is a great local Vermont syrup but Butternut Mountain Farm Maple Syrup is not certified organic (although they very well could be practicing organic farm practices).
3. 365 Everyday Value Maple Syrup
What We Love: 365 Everyday Maple Syrup from Whole Foods is economical, organic, and non-GMO. It’s robust but not as robust as some of the options below. A naturally fat-free, cholesterol free food, this made from plants sweetener is full of flavor.
Considerations: 365 Everyday Maple Syrup is robust but is a bit more diluted tasting than some other options below but can still be an amazing and delicious value!
2. Hidden Springs Organic Vermont Maple Syrup
What We Love: Hidden Springs is an organic maple syrup that’s great for all uses and recipes that has enough maple flavor but without being overpowering. When you’re choosing an organic syrup, you’re choosing to support stewardship of the land.
Considerations: If you are looking for a light colored and light amber taste, Hidden Springs Organic Maple Syrup may be a bit too robust for you.
1. Coombs Family Farms Organic Vermont Maple Syrup
What We Love: Coombs Family Farms Organic Maple Syrup is 100% organic and pure, so you know you are putting the best in your body but also doing the best for the environment. This kosher pure maple syrup does not contain any additives and would be a great addition in your pantry or at your breakfast table with it’s rich, robust but neutral flavor.
Considerations: These last few syrups, including Coombs Fmaily Farms Organic Maple Syrup come in large containers and while syrup is shelf stable and lasts for awhile, it can take a bit to go through if you don’t bake with maple syrup or use it as a sweetener often.
Are any of these maple syrups on your breakfast table with your favorite waffles or pancakes?? If so, let us know which one (or ones!). And if not, what vegan pure maple syrup do you enjoy – let us know below and share the love!