What to Do with a Lot of Maple Syrup (Besides Pancakes)

The benefit and the curse of being in the land of maple syrup.

Let’s face it—sometimes, life hands you a jackpot of maple syrup. Maybe it was a gift, a bulk buy gone rogue, or your own overzealous enthusiasm for farmers' markets. Whatever the case, if your pantry is practically swimming in liquid gold, you might be wondering: What on earth can I do with all this syrup?

Fear not, maple enthusiast! There's a world beyond pancakes and waffles. Here are some sweet (and savory) ideas to make the most of your maple bounty.

1. Sweeten Your Morning... Differently

Skip the sugar and stir a dollop of maple syrup into your coffee or tea for a natural, caramel-like sweetness. It’s also heavenly drizzled over oatmeal, yogurt, or even a smoothie bowl. Bonus: You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a cozy cabin in Muskoka, even if you’re in a tiny city apartment.

2. Make Maple-Glazed Everything

Maple syrup’s rich, complex flavor makes it the MVP of glazes. Brush it onto roasted vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for a caramelized finish that’s borderline addictive. Or, mix it with mustard and soy sauce for a killer salmon glaze.

3. Shake (or Stir) It Up

Calling all amateur mixologists! Maple syrup can be your secret weapon in cocktails. Swap it in for simple syrup to add depth to classics like Old Fashioneds or mojitos. For non-drinkers, try it in homemade lemonade or hot cider.

4. Bake the Day Away

Maple syrup loves to shine in baked goods. Sub it for sugar in muffins, cookies, or cakes, and enjoy the extra moisture and flavor it adds. Pro tip: Use it in recipes with warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for maximum maple magic.

5. Salad Dressing Superhero

Transform your salads with a maple vinaigrette. Whisk together syrup, olive oil, Dijon mustard, and a splash of vinegar. It’s the perfect mix of tangy, sweet, and sophisticated. Your greens will thank you.

6. The Best BBQ Sauce You’ll Ever Make

Maple syrup in barbecue sauce? Oh, yes. Combine it with ketchup, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite spices for a smoky-sweet marinade or dipping sauce. Ribs, pulled pork, or grilled tofu? Chef’s kiss.

7. Freeze It (For Science and Snacks)

Did you know you can make maple taffy with just snow? Heat the syrup, pour it onto fresh snow (or crushed ice, if it’s not snow season), and roll it up on a stick. Instant winter nostalgia, no sledding required.

8. Preserve Like a Pro

Maple syrup is a natural friend to jams and chutneys. Use it to sweeten fruit preserves or to balance the tang of a savory chutney. Serve alongside cheese or roasted meats, and you’ll feel very put-together indeed.

9. Indulge Your Sweet Tooth

Homemade maple fudge, anyone? Or maybe a maple syrup ice cream swirl? Even just drizzling it over vanilla ice cream feels indulgent. Pro tip: Sprinkle with flaky salt for a sweet-salty masterpiece.

10. DIY Gifts

If you truly can’t use it all, bottle it up into smaller jars and share the love. A jar of maple syrup paired with a handwritten recipe is a thoughtful, delicious gift—perfect for the holidays, birthdays, or a random Tuesday.

So, whether you’re glazing, mixing, baking, or gifting, remember: maple syrup is more than just a pancake partner. It’s a versatile, flavorful wonder that can upgrade just about any dish. Go ahead—channel your inner culinary genius. Your syrup surplus just became your secret superpower.