Maple Syrup Substitute

Although slightly embarrassed to admit I forgot the maple syrup up in Vermont, I'll still share with you my emergency syrup recipe. It is not a replacement, but if you are like me, and can't bring yourself to purchase the fake stuff, then this is for you. It only takes a few minutes, and I guarantee you have the ingredients stocked. At least you can say you made this sweet pancake 'topping'.

Maple Syrup Substitute
Printable Recipe
by Peggy Trowbridge Flippone, About.com Guide

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 teaspoon butter
• 1 teaspoon maple extract or vanilla extract

1. Place granulated sugar in a heavy skillet. Heat until the sugar melts and turns brown.
2. Meanwhile, place brown sugar into a heavy saucepan. Pour water over brown sugar and bring to a boil without stirring.
3. Add caramelized white sugar to the melted brown sugar in the saucepan. Simmer, stirring often, until syrup is thickened.
4. Remove from heat, and whisk in butter and maple or vanilla extract.
5. Serve maple syrup substitute warm over pancakes, waffles, and biscuits.

*Makes about 1 cup