What is the difference between dark maple syrup and amber maple syrup?
Dark or amber? OK, it might not be a decision your life rests on, but it’s good to know what makes these types of maple syrup different (aside from the colour, of course).
The basics are here – the difference comes down to when it’s harvested, how much light passes through it, and ultimately, how it tastes.
But there is a little more to it than that, and in this article, we put the spotlight on both dark maple syrup and amber maple syrup.
What is amber maple syrup?
Amber maple syrup, officially classified as Canada Grade A Amber, Rich Taste: That’s the official grade classification of what we normally call amber maple syrup.
It is harvested during the first half of the maple season – usually in the earlier weeks of spring when the weather is cooler. Amber maple syrup, you probably won’t be surprised to know, has a lighter colour and a delicate, buttery flavour. It is this colour and taste that many people see as the classic characteristics of maple syrup.
Due to its nice balance (not too intense, with an agreeable level of sweetness) it is one of the most popular forms of maple syrup.
What is amber maple syrup best used for?
Amber’s well-rounded flavour makes it a winner for everyday use, whether that’s drizzling over pancakes and waffles, or used as a natural sweetener for porridge, yogurt or hot drinks. It doesn’t overpower, and its clean, understated taste also makes it an option for finishing desserts.
What is dark robust maple syrup?
Dark maple syrup is produced in the part of the season when temperatures begin to rise. Grade A Dark with Robust Taste, to give its official classification, has a later harvest period. This contributes a more intense flavour concentration that results in a deeper colour and a more complex taste profile.
It is richer and more intense than amber maple syrup, and that’s why it has been described as ‘caramel-like’ by some people. This is a bolder syrup that is not easily drowned out by other flavours.
What is dark robust maple syrup best used for?
Dark maple syrup is a cook or baker’s favourite. Due to the robust flavour, it stands up to heat and complements both savoury and sweet dishes. This makes it a suitable choice for baking, as well as marinades, glazes and sauces.
This type of syrup works well for recipes in which a bold maple flavour is required. Examples include BBQ sauce, glazed salmon or roasted root vegetables. It is also well-suited to rich baked goods like cookies, cakes, and flapjacks. In general, if you’re cooking with maple syrup, dark is usually your best bet.
What are maple syrup grades?
At first glance, the grading system for maple syrup might seem a little confusing. But when you dig a little deeper, there isn’t that much to it…
All pure maple syrup sold today falls under one classification: Grade A. Within Grade A, syrups are divided into the four colour classes. These are Golden with Delicate Taste, followed by Amber with Rich Taste, then Dark with Robust Taste, and finally Very Dark with Strong Taste.
The idea of this grading system – which is now standardised across Canada and the United States, and can be seen on Canadian maple syrup sold in the UK – is to give consumers clear and consistent information. The grade reflects how much light passes through the syrup. The less light, the darker the syrup will be, and the more intense the flavour.
Does the colour impact the taste?
Yes – not only do amber and dark maple syrup taste different, but the colour impacts the taste directly. The colour of maple syrup represents its flavour intensity. Essentially; the darker, the stronger.
Lighter syrups, like Golden and Amber, have a more delicate, subtle sweetness, while darker grades like Dark and Very Dark carry bold, complex, and caramel-like flavour profiles.
The colour difference results from the natural changes in the maple sap as the season progresses. If you are buying 100% maple syrup, the colour will have nothing to do with additives or processing.
Now you have the important information, let colour be your guide when choosing maple syrup.