For fans of maple syrup, maple season is every day of the year. When it comes to what we pour on our pancakes and waffles, though, many don't know that there's actually a difference between pure syrup and the stuff that comes mass-produced at a (usually) lower price. There's what's called 'pancake' syrup, which is a high-fructose corn syrup blend, and 'pure' maple syrup, which is pure syrup, tapped straight from the tree and cooked.
There are many differences flavor and texture-wise between the two as well and they're not so minor. Pancake syrup is often much thicker and has a very sweet flavor, but that's about it - there are no undernotes or hints of any other flavor profiles. Pure maple syrup, depending on the grade, can take on an incredibly light flavor if the syrup is pale in color, or it can be deep and robust with undertones of coffee and caramel if it's of a darker grade. With that being said, the next time you're in the market for a new syrup, try one of these before picking up your favorite childhood brand.
Anderson's Pure Maple Syrup
By unanimous count, Anderson's Pure Maple Syrup is one of the best. Surprisingly, this syrup isn't made in New England or Canada; rather, it's made in Wisconsin. Despite its unexpected origin, this company has been making pure maple syrup since the 1920s, and according to Delish, notes of cinnamon, vanilla, and orange can be tasted among its intricate sweetness.
The Maple Guys
Born out of New Hampshire, it's not surprising that pure maple syrup from The Maple Guys made it to the list of the best syrups out there. This simple syrup is downright delicious and is made by top-notch experts in the business of sugaring. It's also far more affordable than many other pure syrups, starting at $8 for eight ounces.
Hilltop Boilers
Yet another New England location famous for its love for maple, Hilltop Boilers is based out of Maine and they make a rockin' syrup. They produce syrups of varying grades which means customers get to choose their specific flavor profile, and they are a smaller business, which means they take the utmost care and pride in what they do.
Maple Grove Farms
This syrup is found pretty commonly throughout grocery stores but that doesn't mean it should be underestimated - you don't need to order online or take a trip up North to find great maple syrup. Maple Grove Farms is light, sweet, and simple, perfect for use on almost everything.
Crown Maple Syrup
For the heavy-hitters out there who love a bit of complexity in their syrup, Crown is the brand to go with. These syrups come in a few different grades but all offer the same deep, robust flavor notes in each bottle of pure maple syrup. These flavors are quite unlike most out there and are great for the purists who appreciate the not-so-subtle taste.
Aldi Specially Selected Canadian Maple Syrup
Aldi has been knocking it out of the park with many of their products this year but a beloved favorite has consistently been their Specially Selected Canadian Maple Syrup. It's deep, flavorful, and has just a hint of nuttiness and the same type of sweetness you'd expect from molasses.
Kirkland Signature
A Costco brand, Kirkland Signature has actually managed to present to the world some pretty impressive syrups. With syrup that varies in grade, these are thicker than the average but just as delicious, flavorful, and sweet as any other. For the price and the convenience, this is a go-to brand.
Brown Family Farm
If you were wondering when Vermont, the state known for its thousands of maple trees, was going to take a spot on this list, it's here. Brown Family Farm is one of many incredible farms that are procuring pure maple syrup but in Vermont, most of them are available locally. Brown Family Farm, however, is one of the best in the state and they're producing a dark maple syrup that will surely knock your socks off.
Trader Joe's Vanilla Bean Infused Vermont Maple Syrup
Syrup infusions are usually hit or miss but, not surprisingly, Trader Joe's has found a way to incorporate vanilla bean into their product without it having a sickeningly sweet or over-vanilla'ed flavor. The result is just something delicious with a whisper of true vanilla flavor.
Bushwick Kitchen Trees Knees
Bushwick Kitchen is based in Brooklyn and uses local products from all around upstate New York, and their entire line of products is truly amazing. However, their maple syrups, which come in several different flavors, are making waves among pure maple syrup lovers, and for good reason... this stuff is delicious.