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A pancake without syrup is like fall without foliage: unremarkable. These four, thick rich varieties
stack up well against the competition.
To Syrup, with Love
There's nothing like the real thing - except, of course, when the imitation tastes better. That's what Real Simple tasters discovered in a blind sampling of nationally available syrups. What's called pancake syrup - usually a blend of corn syrup and flavorings - was (surprise) the popular favorite, beating out pure maple syrup. "It's what I grew up with." Explained one panelist. Fans of the natural product, though, couldn't be swayed. Here are the best in both categories.
Pancake Syrup
Best regular - Aunt Jemima Original - "Pleasantly sweet," said one tester. Many called this "a classic syrup," commenting on the light, mapley taste. "I love the consistency," said a panelist of the just-thick-enough blend. To Buy: $3.50 for 24 ounces.
Best sugar-free - Maple Grove Farms Sugar-Free Maple Flavor - This diet friendly alternative is made with Splenda, which may account for the "intense sweetness" that struck several testers. "It has a little kick that's almost spicy," said one. To Buy: $3.50 for 24 ounces.
Maple Syrup
Best Grade A - Highland Sugarworks Grade A Dark Amber - Pure Syrup is graded by color (A is lighter and more delicate of the two available in supermarkets). This "smooth, silky" favorite has a "smoky, toasted flavor," said a tester. To Buy: $6.50 for eight ounces.
Best Grade B - Coombs Family Farms Organic Grade B - The strong flavor put some off, but others found this deep, dark syrup evocative of a New England fall. "I think of cozy fires," said a fan. Added another: "Bring on the pancakes!" To Buy: $10 for 12 ounces.
For press inquiries about Bascom Family Farms, Coombs Family Farms, or Brown Family Farm, or to submit a press release for consideration to MapleSource.com, please contact:
Belinda Donovan
Ethos Marketing and Design
bdonovan@ethos-marketing.com
Tel. (207) 856-2610 x237