What can I substitute for maple extract?
Running low on maple extract? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.
About maple extract
Maple extract is a concentrated flavouring derived from natural or artificial maple compounds, used to impart the distinctive sweet, woody, caramel-like taste of maple syrup without adding liquid or sugar. It is commonly used in baking, frostings, and desserts where a strong maple flavour is desired without altering the texture or sweetness level of a recipe. A little goes a long way, as the flavour is significantly more concentrated than maple syrup.
Best substitute
maple syrup
Maple syrup provides an authentic maple flavour, though it is far less concentrated and adds significant liquid and sweetness to a recipe. Reduce other liquids and sweeteners accordingly to compensate.
Use 1 tbsp maple syrup for every ¼ tsp maple extract — reduce other liquids in the recipe by about 2 tsp
bakingglazesfrostingssaucesNot suitable for: dry spice blendsNot suitable for: recipes sensitive to added moisture
Alternative
vanilla extract
Vanilla extract shares a warm, sweet aromatic profile and works as a neutral stand-in when maple flavour is not essential to the recipe. It won't replicate the smoky, caramel-like depth of maple but will provide a pleasant background sweetness.
Use ¼ tsp vanilla extract for every ¼ tsp maple extract
bakingfrostingscustardspancakesNot suitable for: recipes requiring distinct maple flavour
What is maple extract called in other countries?
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Australia | maple extract |
| Canada | maple extract |
| New Zealand | maple extract |
| United Kingdom | maple flavouring |
| United States | maple extract |
Common names for maple extract
maple flavouringartificial maple flavournatural maple flavourmaple essence