Smoked Maple Syrup: 15+ Unexpected Ways to Use It

Nov 10, 2022

This isn’t just syrup. It’s your secret weapon for smoky, sweet, deeply satisfying flavor. Use it like a finishing glaze, a marinade booster, or a stealthy stir-in—whatever the meal, it levels things up.

Meats, Mains & Marinades

1. Glaze bacon strips
Brush syrup onto thick-cut bacon before baking. Adds a smoky caramelized edge.

2. Baste ham or pork
Use it as a last-minute glaze while roasting ham or pork tenderloin.

3. Add to the sausage while searing
A drizzle in the pan while browning the sausage adds depth and stickiness.

4. Brush on grilled pineapple
Sweet and smoke meet char—excellent with pork or as a taco topping.

5. Mix with soy or tamari + Dijon
Quick marinade for salmon, tofu, or mushrooms.

6. Drizzle on fried chicken or pizza
Savory + sweet + crunch = game changer.

Sides & Snacks

7. Roast carrots or Brussels sprouts
Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a spoon of syrup. Roast till crisped and sticky.

8. Mix into sweet potatoes
Mash into roasted sweet potatoes or yams with a splash of butter.

9. Add to baked beans
One tablespoon is all it takes to bring out deep, smoky undertones.

10. Swirl into mac & cheese
Just a touch cuts through richness and adds bacon-y vibes—great for vegetarians.

Condiments & Quick Combos

11. Blend with ketchup
For smoky burgers, hot dogs, or elevated fries.

12. Stir into butter
Softened butter + syrup = a spread you’ll want on everything.

13. Add to tomato sauce
Store-bought or homemade—just a teaspoon makes it rounder and richer.

14. Mix into salad dressings
Balances tang in vinaigrettes and adds an earthy finish (see recipe above).

15. Toss in tuna or chicken salad
Adds just enough sweetness to balance mayo and mustard.

Bonus Fan Favorites (Thanks, Carrie M.)

16. Salmon skillet glaze
Pour a little syrup over the salmon skin-side down while searing. It crisps, glazes, and wows.

17. Glazed Italian sausage
Add a spoonful near the end of cooking—seriously, next level.

Smoked Maple Syrup + Sriracha = Cocktail Sauce Reboot

  • Mix 1 tbsp smoked maple, 2 tbsp ketchup, and 1 tsp horseradish for a spicy, smoky cocktail sauce.
  • Add Worcestershire and soy for a soy-sriracha fusion dip.

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