Does your recipe call for maple extract but you’re all out? No worries! I will show you the best substitutes for maple extract so you can still make your dish.
Maple extract provides a delicious flavor to all types of dishes, and each of these substitutes will provide your recipe with a similar flavor.
So what are the best substitutes for maple extract?
The top maple extract substitutes are maple syrup, maple sugar, maple pecan extract, maple butter, maple candy, maple creamer, molasses, vanilla extract, almond extract, and rum extract.
Maple Extract Alternatives
No matter what you are making, you will find a great alternative for maple extract below. So whether you are baking a cake, making frosting, a glaze, or anything else read on for how to best use each of the top maple extract replacements.
Maple Syrup
To use maple syrup in place of maple extract, use 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon of syrup for every teaspoon of extract. Maple syrup is a great substitute if your recipe calls for a lot of flavor. However, be careful not to overdo it because maple extract has a stronger flavor than syrup.
Maple Sugar
If your recipe calls for very little flavor, try substituting 1/8 teaspoon of maple sugar instead of 1/8 teaspoon of maple extract. It will have about the same amount of sweetness and flavor as the extract without being overpowering.
Related: Maple Sugar Substitutes
Maple Pecan Flavored Extract
As a substitute for maple extract, use 1/8 teaspoon of maple pecan flavored extract for every teaspoon of maple extract. Maple pecan extract gives a similar taste to pure maple extract with a hint of nutty flavor. Like maple extract, this is best used in desserts or drinks.
Maple Butter
Maple butter is popular in Canada and the Northern United States. If you want the flavor of pure maple extract but with a stronger maple taste, maple butter is your best substitute! To use 1 teaspoon of maple extract, use 1/2 to 3/4 tablespoon of maple butter.
Feel free to play around with the amounts! For example, try using 1 teaspoon of maple syrup and 1/4 teaspoon of maple extract in place of 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter for pecan pie topping.
Maple Candy
Maple candy can also be used as a substitute for maple extract. It is made from pure maple syrup with a hard center. Substitute 1/2 cup of maple candy for every teaspoon of maple extract. Just slowly melt down your candy before subbing for maple extract.
The main thing to keep in mind when substituting for maple extract is that it will change the flavor of your dish. So, if you have used 1 teaspoon of maple extract, use another ingredient with similar flavoring properties (give or take).
Maple Flavored Coffee Creamer
*For the best results, use a coffee creamer that contains real maple syrup or maple extract.
Use a 2:1 ratio of creamer to extract. It’s not my favorite substitute for every recipe but when you’re in a pinch and it’s the only maple flavoring you have, it will work.
Molasses
Molasses can be used in place of maple extract. Use 1/4 teaspoon molasses for every teaspoon of maple extract. Molasses has a strong dark sugar flavor that may ruin certain recipes, but it can be used as a substitute for pure maple extract in others.
Related: Substitutes for Molasses
Vanilla Extract
If your recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of maple extract, use 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Many recipes call for both vanilla and maple extracts so you can make a double batch and have one on hand when the other runs out.
Related: Does Vanilla Extract Go Bad
Almond Extract
Again, you won’t get that deep maple flavor, but almond extract can be used in a pinch. It’s flavor is similar to vanilla but with a deeper tone. Use 1/4 teaspoon of almond extract for every teaspoon of maple extract.
Related: Almond Extract Substitutes
Rum Extract
Rum extract can also be used in place of maple extract. Use 1 teaspoon rum extract for every teaspoon of maple extract.
Other Extracts
There are many other extracts available that can replicate the maple flavor. Vanilla bean extract , cinnamon extract , and nutmeg extract are my favorite substitutes for pure maple extract.
Maple Extract Replacement FAQ
What Is Maple Extract?
Maple extract is a type of flavoring that can be used as a substitute for pure maple syrup or maple sugar. It is made from the evaporated sap of maple trees (usually Sugar Maple) and has a very strong, sweet flavor.
Maple extract comes in two forms, imitation and pure. Imitation maple extract is often made with propylene glycol. This is why I only use and recommend using pure natural maple extract when a recipe calls for it.
How To Make Maple Extract
Add 1 cup of 100% pure maple syrup to 1 cup of vodka or other high proof liquor. Let it sit for several days in the refrigerator. The extract should be ready after 3 days, but you can let it sit for up to a month if desired. Some liquid will have evaporated, leaving the extract thicker than when you started.
Conclusion
Maple flavor is a delicious addition to desserts, beverages, and sauces. If you’re out of pure maple extract and don’t have time to run to the grocery store, try one of these substitutes!