Maple syrup is often thought of as a sweetener best suited for pancakes and waffles. But did you know that this natural, unrefined sugar has a multitude of health benefits and can be used in a wide variety of dishes beyond just breakfast? From savory roasted vegetables to sweet and satisfying desserts, maple syrup is a versatile ingredient that can elevate any meal.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering maple syrup recipes that are not only delicious but also healthy. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or a special occasion dessert, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, get creative with your maple syrup, and discover a world of flavor and nutrition!
Maple Glazed Salmon with Quinoa
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory maple glazed salmon paired with nutty quinoa. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the fish.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or vegetable broth.
6. Serve glazed salmon atop cooked quinoa.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Baked Cinnamon Maple Apples
This recipe yields a deliciously sweet and tender apple dessert that’s perfect for a cozy night in or as a thoughtful gift. With the flavors of cinnamon, maple, and baked apples, you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized apples (any variety), cored
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Add the cored apples to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the cinnamon mixture.
4. Place the apple mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish and drizzle with maple syrup.
5. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Sweet and savory, these roasted Brussels sprouts are a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for some heat)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. If using red pepper flakes, add them now and toss again.
4. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs
A sweet and tangy twist on classic chicken thighs, these Maple Dijon Chicken Thighs are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and thyme.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large baking dish and brush the maple-Dijon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Pecan Oatmeal Breakfast Bowl
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of oatmeal infused with the rich flavors of maple syrup and toasted pecans. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (or combination)
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the oats and liquid to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid.
3. Stir in the maple syrup, butter, salt, and chopped pecans.
4. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve warm, topped with a pinch of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Maple Yogurt Parfait with Fresh Berries
Maple Yogurt Parfait with Fresh Berries Recipe
Start your day off right with a sweet and satisfying parfait featuring creamy maple yogurt, fresh berries, and crunchy granola.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Whipped cream or chopped nuts for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt and maple syrup until smooth.
2. Spoon the yogurt mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with granola and fresh berries.
4. If desired, add whipped cream or chopped nuts as a finishing touch.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes meet maple syrup in this delightful side dish that’s perfect for the fall and winter seasons. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the rich, velvety texture of the maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub and poke the sweet potatoes with a fork several times.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, and salt.
4. Place the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the maple syrup mixture evenly over the sweet potatoes.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple Almond Butter Energy Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a quick energy boost or post-workout snack. Made with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, almond butter, and maple syrup, they’re not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy almond butter
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, almond butter, and maple syrup. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in chopped dark chocolate chips and salt until evenly distributed.
3. Roll mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 energy bites.
4. Place chia seeds on a plate or tray. Roll each energy ball into the chia seeds to coat.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These bite-sized treats are no-bake and ready in under 10 minutes.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Maple Almond Butter Energy Bites!
Maple Balsamic Grilled Vegetables
Elevate your grilled vegetables with the sweet and tangy combination of maple syrup and balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed colorful bell peppers, sliced into thick strips
– 1 cup zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar.
3. Brush the glaze mixture evenly onto both sides of the vegetables.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the vegetables for 8-10 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
7. Serve hot as a side dish or add to your favorite meal.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Maple Chia Seed Pudding
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast that’s packed with omega-3s and fiber. This Maple Chia Seed Pudding is a simple and healthy treat that’s perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Stir the pudding before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– You can adjust the amount of maple syrup to your taste.
– Try adding sliced fruit, nuts, or shredded coconut on top for added texture and flavor.
Enjoy your nutritious and delicious Maple Chia Seed Pudding!
Maple Turkey Meatballs with Zucchini Noodles
Elevate your meatball game with this sweet and savory recipe, featuring maple-glazed turkey meatballs served atop a bed of zucchini noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp maple syrup
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Zucchini noodles (about 4-6 medium zucchinis)
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, oats, onion, cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, spiralize the zucchinis and cook in a large skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes or until slightly tender.
6. Serve meatballs atop zucchini noodles and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Walnut Baked Pears
Elevate the humble pear to new heights with this simple yet elegant dessert recipe. Caramelized sugar, rich maple syrup, and crunchy walnuts come together to create a delightful autumnal treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe pears (Bartlett or Anjou)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel, core, and halve the pears.
3. In a small bowl, mix together maple syrup, brown sugar, and melted butter.
4. Place the pear halves in a baking dish and brush the maple mixture evenly over each half.
5. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the pears.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pears are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple Lime Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Elevate your summer grilling game with these sweet and tangy shrimp skewers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or outdoor gathering. A hint of maple syrup and lime juice adds a depth of flavor to the succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
4. Thread 3-4 shrimp onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables or quinoa salad.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Maple Coconut Granola Bars
These chewy granola bars are packed with the warm, comforting flavors of maple syrup and toasted coconut. Perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped dark brown sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, brown sugar, and unsweetened shredded coconut.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Mustard Roasted Carrots
Add a sweet and tangy twist to your roasted carrots with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, mustard, and salt.
3. Add the chopped carrots to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the maple-mustard mixture.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the carrots and toss again to combine.
5. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Banana Smoothie with Flaxseed
Start your day with a deliciously healthy smoothie packed with the natural sweetness of maple syrup, creamy banana, and nutty flaxseed. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for breakfast or a post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, maple syrup, Greek yogurt, and ground flaxseed.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes and blend again for a thicker texture.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Maple Glazed Tofu Stir-Fry
This sweet and savory stir-fry is a perfect combination of textures and flavors, featuring crispy tofu glazed with a rich maple syrup and soy sauce mixture. Serve over rice or noodles for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together soy sauce and maple syrup.
2. Add tofu and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Remove tofu from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Stir-fry tofu, onion, garlic, and bell peppers until vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Spiced Roasted Chickpeas
Maple Spiced Roasted Chickpeas: A Sweet and Savory Snack
Get cozy with the warm spices of fall and the sweetness of maple syrup in these addictive roasted chickpeas!
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt.
3. Add the chickpeas and toss until well coated with the spice mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the chickpeas in a single layer.
5. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until crispy, shaking the pan halfway through.
6. Remove from oven and drizzle with maple syrup. Toss to coat.
7. Sprinkle with parsley and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious and healthy world of maple syrup recipes! This collection of 18 tasty dishes combines the rich flavor of maple syrup with nutritious ingredients to create a diet that’s both indulgent and good for you. From savory salmon and chicken to sweet oatmeal and energy bites, there’s something for every taste bud. Try making Maple Glazed Salmon with Quinoa, Baked Cinnamon Maple Apples, or Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts – your taste buds (and body) will thank you!
