Saint InnocentMaple extract for those not informed or aware is a delicious liquid food flavoring just as the case is with vanilla and almond extract, sourced out of the sap of maple trees. It is a common ingredient in plenty of recipes being used in cooking and baking.
It is oftentimes mistaken for maple syrup because it shares a similar flavor profile with that of homemade maple syrup. Aside from the fact that it does come in its imitation form, it can be really difficult to differentiate times.
Maple extract is the best bet when it comes to preparing recipes for cookies, dessert sweets including cakes, ice cream, waffles, and French stir-fries.
In the long run, some days can get unpredictable and you might not have the maple extract to work with at such a point in time, then you might be left with no other option other than to look towards the direction of other available Substitutes. Below have been highlighted a few of them though.
Substitute For Maple Extract
1. Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is not just a natural, but an easy substitute as well for maple extract, since apart from being sweeter and more viscous than the extract, there are no differences in its flavor profile. as it’s the liquid form of the same flavor.
As regards its sweet and viscous taste, it is recommended to always take into consideration the recipe’s overall sweetness level before putting the maple syrup, since there are some instances where the dish can get overly sweet.
2. Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract is not just considered a natural substitute for maple extract alone, but a versatile option as well, since it not only brings sweetness but warmth and depth as well with its ratio creamy, sweet flavor that complements a wide array of ingredients.
Blending perfectly well with baked goods such as desserts, and sauces, the vanilla extract should be your go-to choice of a substitute for the maple extract.
3. Almond Extract
Almond extract is famous for its nutty with a little touch of sweet flavor yet another choice of options of substitute for maple extract, particularly when put into use for baked goods, desserts, and sauces in which its nutty flavor is very much needed.
With its biggest strength as well lying in its stronger flavor which is way ahead of the maple extract, it is always advisable to start with using a small amount to adjust to taste afterward.
4. Hazelnut Extract
Hazelnut extract naturally comes with a rich and nutty flavor which exactly fits in the same flavor profile as that of the maple extract, thereby making it an excellent choice of substitute to the maple extract.
When it comes to having a strong presence on records, the Hazelnut extract blends perfectly with baked goods, desserts, and sauces where a deep, nutty flavor is needed to complement their taste.
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5. Cinnamon
If there is anything Cinnamon is known for, it should be its warm and spicy flavor that fits the same flavor profile as that of maple extract in certain recipes needed for baked goods, desserts, and sauces.
Though the level of sweetness in the maple extract might not be traceable in cinnamon, just by merely combining the cinnamon with a small amount of brown sugar or vanilla extract, you have gotten in hand an excellent substitute for the maple extract.
6. Nutmeg
Nutmeg generally are characterized by their warm and slightly sweet flavor that can substitute for maple extract in some recipes. Its perfection comes out in full display when it is s being used in recipes for baked goods, desserts, and sauces in instances where a warm and comforting flavor is very much needed.
In terms of its level of sweetness as well, to get the very best of the nutmeg in recipes, since it lacks that distinct maple flavor and sweetness, it is recommended for you to combine it with a small amount of brown sugar or vanilla extract.
7. Corn Syrup
Undeniably, there is no denying the fact that Corn Syrup is one of the cheapest options as a substitute to the maple extract out there, particularly for those operating on a pocket-friendly budget, it can indeed be a good choice.
Though it can be quite difficult to find in any of the local grocery stores or marketplaces at times, corn syrup is popular for its caramel flavor presence that can be very much needed in your dishes on days when you can’t lay hold of the maple extract.
8. Agave Nectar
According to medical practitioners across the globe, Agave nectar happens to be one of the healthiest alternatives to maple extract out there, which is evident in the fact that it has a lower glycemic index.
Taking a turn away from its health benefits, Agave nectar is also great when being used in recipes for baking and cooking, particularly when it comes to making that very sweet breakfast or brunch with it.
9. Molasses
If you are indeed a heavy consumer of the maple extract, on days when it is not available for you to use, with the Molasses by your side there is nothing to miss in that regard, since it is one of the best alternatives for maple extract.
Characterized by its warm, sweet, slightly smoky flavor, signifying similar traits to the flavor profile of maple extract, the molasses does serve the purpose of overwhelming other ingredients in dishes; particularly baked goods such as frostings, creams, and other sweet treats.
Though putting molasses isn’t just limited to baked goods alone, it is also a perfect choice when making an appearance in fruit salads, cooked veggies, roasts, or sweet potatoes.
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10. Honey
On the nutritional side, it is also safe to consider honey as a healthy substitute for maple extract as well, though there is a slight difference in the level of sweetness for both of them, the fact that honey can seamlessly mimic the maple extract makes it a perfect substitute as well.
Similar to the aforementioned molasses, honey is also a top-notch option for ham, turkey, bacon, veggies, starchy foods, and roasts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, should you happen to be among those who just don’t have maple extract in their custody, or can’t seem to find it at the store and can spare time to make one of it at home, then you might as well want to consider trying out one of the aforementioned substitute to maple extract.
Emmanuel
Saint Innocent
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