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.
Maple Syrup Crystals - Method 1
- Heat a cup of pure maple syrup in a pan over medium heat.
- 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.
- 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.
Maple Syrup Crystals - Method 2
- 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.
- Heat a cup of pure maple syrup in a pan over medium heat.
- Heat the syrup, stirring constantly, until it has a thick consistency. Remove the pan from heat.
- 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.
