Can you substitute maple syrup for treacle?

They are both sweeteners used in numerous baked goods, glazes and even drinks – but can you swap maple syrup for treacle?

The short answer is that yes, you can substitute maple syrup for treacle. You might also be happy to know you can swap them in a 1:1 ratio. However, remember that it will change the flavour and texture of your dish.

So if you’ve run out of treacle, or are looking for a natural alternative, know that you can swap in maple syrup. This article looks at how the exchange works and the best times to use it.

How the substitution works

Ratio

Use equal amounts of maple syrup for treacle (1:1). This makes it a simple swap, with no need to recalculate quantities or adjust the rest of the recipe.

Flavour

Treacle has a dark, rich, smoky, and slightly bitter caramel taste. Maple syrup is much lighter, milder and sweeter. Some also report a woody, toffee or nutty flavour. If you want to get as close as possible to treacle’s taste, it is recommended to choose a darker grade such Grade A Dark Robust. This variety has a bolder, more caramel-like character.

Texture

Maple syrup is thinner and more watery than thick, sticky treacle. This difference can make baked goods less dense or moist. In some recipes, slightly reducing the other liquids can help balance this out.

When to use it

Small amounts

Maple syrup works fine if a recipe only calls for a tablespoon of treacle. In marinades, glazes, sauces, porridge or a small amount in a cake batter, it is unlikely most people will notice the difference.

Avoid in heavy recipes

Do not use maple syrup for a direct swap in recipes where treacle is ‘star ingredient’. Examples of this are traditional treacle tart or dark gingerbread. Maple syrup will not give you the same deep colour and bittersweet element for these recipes in which treacle is central to both the flavour and the appearance.