Maple Syrup Crystals Recipe

Making maple syrup crystals is a fun project for children. It's great for adults, too, since the maple syrup crystals may be used as a flavorful sweetener in drinks or other treats. Maple syrup crystals have a more complex flavor than sugar crystals or rock candy. Here's how to make the crystals.

Method 1

1. Heat a cup of pure maple syrup in a pan over medium heat.
2. Stir and heat the syrup until it starts to thicken or you start to see crystals forming on the bottom or side of the pan.
3. Pour the syrup onto a chilled plate and allow the syrup to crystallize. If you pour the syrup onto a dark-colored plate, it will be easier to watch the crystals form.

Method 2

1. Cover a baking sheet or shallow dish with a layer of water. You only need about 1/4 inch of water. Freeze the dish to make ice.
2. Heat a cup of pure maple syrup in a pan over medium heat.
3. Heat the syrup, stirring constantly, until it has a thick consistency. Remove the pan from heat.
4. Remove the dish of ice from the freezer. Drop spoonfuls of the hot syrup onto the ice. The sudden temperature change will cause crystals to form within minutes.