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Maple Syrup Substitute for Brown Sugar: Exact Ratio

Looking for a brown sugar substitute? Maple Syrup works as a direct replacement. Use 2/3 cup maple syrup = 1 cup brown sugar; reduce other liquids by 1/4 cup in any recipe that calls for brown sugar. This swap works best for oatmeal, glazes, marinades.

Best Substitute

Maple Syrup

2/3 cup maple syrup = 1 cup brown sugar; reduce other liquids by 1/4 cup

Adds a distinct maple flavor. Works best in recipes where a liquid sweetener is acceptable. Reduce oven temperature by 25°F.

VeganThis substitute is vegan-friendlyGluten-FreeThis substitute is gluten-freeOatmealGlazesMarinades

Tips When Replacing Brown Sugar in Recipes

When making your own brown sugar with white sugar and molasses, use 1 tablespoon molasses per cup for light brown and 2 tablespoons for dark brown. Store homemade brown sugar in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

What Is Brown Sugar and Why Substitute It?

A moist sweetener made from white sugar combined with molasses, giving it a rich caramel flavor and soft texture. Brown sugar is essential in cookies, barbecue sauces, and glazes where depth of flavor matters.

Maple Syrup is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of brown sugar. For a complete list of brown sugar substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full brown sugar substitute page.

What Else Can I Use Instead of Brown Sugar?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use maple syrup instead of brown sugar?

Yes, you can use maple syrup as a substitute for brown sugar. Use 2/3 cup maple syrup = 1 cup brown sugar; reduce other liquids by 1/4 cup. Adds a distinct maple flavor. Works best in recipes where a liquid sweetener is acceptable. Reduce oven temperature by 25°F.

How much maple syrup equals brown sugar?

Use 2/3 cup maple syrup = 1 cup brown sugar; reduce other liquids by 1/4 cup to replace brown sugar with maple syrup. Works best for oatmeal, glazes, marinades.

What is the best substitute for brown sugar?

Maple Syrup is a popular substitute for brown sugar. Use 2/3 cup maple syrup = 1 cup brown sugar; reduce other liquids by 1/4 cup for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our brown sugar substitute page.

Is maple syrup a vegan substitute for brown sugar?

Yes, maple syrup is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to brown sugar. Use 2/3 cup maple syrup = 1 cup brown sugar; reduce other liquids by 1/4 cup.