Maple Syrup Color Grading & Use

About Pure Maple Syrup Grades... 

Grade Description   Recommended Use
Light Amber Light and mild, known in maple industry as a "Maple bouquet."  Has a very delicate, but clear, maple flavor.  Usually made earlier in the season when the weather is colder and there is less chance of sap degradation - one of the factors that contributes to a darker syrup. Maple Candy
Cake Icing
Ice Cream Topping
Delicate Sweets
Vinaigrettes
Maple Cream

Medium Amber The most popular grade of table syrup.  Has a more pronounced maple flavor.  This color tends to bring out the subtle tastes of maple syrup.  Generally made about mid-season, after the weather starts to warm. Used more as a table syrup than for baking or cooking.  Great for pancakes, waffles & French toast.

Dark Amber With a deep color and a stronger maple flavor, this is characterized as "caramel-like."  This grade is usually made later in the season as the days get longer and warmer Bolder flavor but still works well on pancakes, waffles & French toast.  Also works well in baked goods.

Extra Dark
Grade B
A very dark amber, intensely flavored syrup. This is our strongest syrup.  Sometimes called "cooking syrup"  Made late in the season.  Many books reference this grade for health reasons. Very strong flavor. Most often used for cooking, baking.  Boldness works well with meat glazes, candied yams, baked beans and desserts calling for robust flavor.
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