Pancakes are a beloved breakfast food for many, but finding a delicious gluten-free syrup can be tricky for those with food sensitivities or celiac disease. Thankfully, there are a number of great tasting syrups on the market today that are made without gluten ingredients.
What is gluten and why does it matter?
Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley and rye. For those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, consuming gluten can cause gastrointestinal issues and other health problems. That’s why it’s important for those who are gluten-free to choose syrups that do not contain gluten.
Reading labels for gluten
When shopping for pancake syrup, be sure to read the ingredient labels carefully. Words like wheat, barley, rye, malt and malt extract or flavorings indicate the presence of gluten. Many syrups contain small amounts of wheat flour or barley malt to help thicken the consistency. Even minuscule amounts of gluten can cause issues for those who are highly sensitive, so your best bet is to choose a syrup that is certified gluten-free.
The best gluten-free pancake syrup brands
Here are some of the top gluten-free syrup options for pancakes and waffles:
1. Maple Grove Farms of Vermont
Maple Grove Farms of Vermont makes a variety of 100% pure maple syrups that are gluten-free and made without any artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. Their syrups come in grades A Amber Color, Dark Amber and Very Dark Amber to suit different flavor preferences. Real maple syrup offers a delicious, natural sweetness perfect for drizzling over a stack of pancakes or waffles.
2. Log Cabin Original Syrup
Log Cabin is a well known brand in the pancake syrup world. Their traditional Original Syrup is gluten-free, though some of their flavored syrups do contain gluten. The Original Syrup has that familiar sweet, maple-y taste and thick golden color.
3. Cary’s Sugar Free Syrup
For a sugar-free option, Cary’s makes a 100% pure maple flavored syrup sweetened with Splenda. It’s gluten-free and contains zero sugar and zero calories. Cary’s Sugar Free Syrup has the same amber color and syrupy texture as regular maple syrup without the added sugar.
4. Vermont Maple Sugar Company
The Vermont Maple Sugar Company offers Grade A dark amber maple syrup grown sustainably in Vermont. Their syrup is certified gluten-free and kosher. You can also find specialty infused versions like maple syrup with vanilla or maple syrup with cinnamon.
5. Coombs Family Farms
Based in California, Coombs Family Farms produces certified gluten-free maple syrup from maple trees grown on their family farm. They harvest the sap and create delicious syrup in small batches. Their syrup comes in different grades and infused flavors too.
6. Aunt Jemima Original Syrup
Aunt Jemima is a ubiquitous breakfast brand carried in most grocery stores. While their original syrup formula does contain some corn syrup, it is gluten-free and provides that familiar sugary-sweet flavor. Just note that Aunt Jemima’s flavored syrups are not gluten-free.
7. Nature’s Hollow Sugar Free Syrup
Nature’s Hollow makes an excellent calorie-free, gluten-free syrup sweetened with xylitol and flavored with maple extract. With only 1 gram of sugar per serving, this is a good option for low-carb diets or those trying to cut back on sugar. The taste and texture mimics real maple syrup remarkably well.
8. BLiS Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup
For the adventurous pancake lover, BLiS makes a unique maple syrup aged in bourbon barrels. This gives the syrup a rich, smoky flavor and amber color. BLiS Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup is certified gluten-free and contains no artificial preservatives or flavors.
9. Maple Joe’s Flavored Syrups
Maple Joe’s offers flavored pancake syrups in tasty flavors like cinnamon maple, coconut maple, vanilla maple and more. Their syrups are gluten and GMO-free. Flavored syrups are a fun way to jazz up your regular pancake routine.
10. Wholesome Sweeteners Organic Syrup
Wholesome Sweeteners Organic Syrup is gluten-free and made from organic corn maltodextrin, non-GMO corn syrup solids and natural flavors. With a light amber color and smooth texture, this is a good natural syrup choice at an affordable price point.
11. Hungry Jack Original Syrup
Like Aunt Jemima, Hungry Jack is another well known and widely available brand of pancake syrup. Their original syrup formula does not contain any gluten ingredients. It has a classic thick and viscous texture.
12. Walden Farms Pancake Syrup
Walden Farms Pancake Syrup is a zero calorie, gluten-free syrup that is sweetened with sucralose and natural flavors. For those monitoring their calorie and carb intake closely, this syrup allows you to enjoy that decadent syrup taste without the calories and sugar.
13. Crown Maple Syrup
From an artisanal producer in New York’s Hudson Valley, Crown Maple Syrup is 100% pure maple tapped from maple trees and boiled into syrup. This certified gluten-free, Grade A Dark Amber maple syrup has a robust maple flavor and luscious texture.
14. Hidden Springs Maple Original Syrup
Hidden Springs Maple makes a high quality, sustainably-sourced Grade A Dark Amber maple syrup from Vermont. It is certified gluten-free with a deeper, more intense maple flavor compared to lighter syrups. Hidden Springs also sells flavored versions like cinnamon maple syrup.
15. Sweet Maple Farm Organic Maple Syrup
From Massachusetts, Sweet Maple Farm makes a delicious USDA organic maple syrup packed with maple flavor. This gluten-free syrup comes in Light Amber, Medium Amber and Dark Amber varieties. It’s sustainably sourced from maple trees on their family farm.
Homemade gluten-free syrup options
If you want 100% control over ingredients, homemade gluten-free syrup is an option too. Here are a few recipes to consider:
– Maple syrup – Boil down pure maple sap into syrup. This requires tapping maple trees and collecting sap.
– Fruit syrup – Simmer fruit juice like blueberry, strawberry or peach juice into a thick syrup. Sweeten as needed with sugar.
– Brown rice syrup – Make a thick syrup from brown rice and water. Brown rice syrup has a mild sweetness similar to honey.
– Coconut syrup – Boil coconut sap down into an ultra-sweet syrup. This isn’t exactly easy to make at home since you need a coconut palm tree.
– Honey – Opt for raw, unfiltered honey as a natural pancake topper. Be sure to buy from a trusted source.
What to look for when buying gluten-free syrup
When evaluating gluten-free pancake syrup options, here are some key things to look for:
– Gluten-free certification on the label – Syrups certified gluten-free have been tested to verify they fall under the FDA gluten-free labeling standard of less than 20ppm of gluten.
– No wheat, barley or rye – Scan the ingredients list to ensure the syrup does not contain gluten grains or derivatives like malt.
– Reputable brands – Stick to well known, trusted syrup brands and producers who clearly label for allergens.
– Pure maple syrup – 100% pure maple syrup is naturally gluten-free, look for “100% pure maple syrup” on the label.
– Cane sugar or corn syrup as sweetener – Cane sugar and corn syrup are gluten-free sweeteners commonly used in pancake syrups.
– Clear allergen labeling – Companies who cater to gluten-free diets will clearly indicate the allergen info on the label.
– Good consistency and flavor – The syrup should have an appetizing color, texture and taste you look for in syrup without any “off” flavors.
Facts about maple syrup
Pure maple syrup is one of the most popular pancake toppers because of its natural sweet flavor and impressive nutrition profile. Here are some interesting facts about real maple syrup:
– It takes 40 gallons of maple sap to make 1 gallon of syrup.
– Maple syrup is made by boiling down maple tree sap.
– Maple syrup grades indicate color and flavor: Grade A Light Amber has a delicate taste while Grade A Very Dark Amber has a more pronounced maple flavor.
– Maple syrup contains beneficial compounds like antioxidants and minerals like zinc and manganese.
– TheTap maple trees and collect sap in early spring when nighttime temperatures are below freezing and daytime temps are above freezing.
– Maple syrup was first made hundreds of years ago by Native Americans in northeast North America.
– Canada produces around 72% of the world’s maple syrup, mostly in Quebec.
– Syrup can be reduced further into maple sugar or maple cream.
– Unopened maple syrup can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to two years.
Storing and using your gluten-free syrup
To get the most out of your gluten-free pancake syrup and keep it fresh, follow these tips:
– Store opened syrup bottles in the refrigerator. The cool temperature will help slow crystallization.
– If syrup crystallizes, gently heat it up until crystals dissolve. Do not let it boil.
– For pure maple syrup, decant some into a smaller container for everyday use. Keep the rest refrigerated for longer storage.
– Microwave individual servings of syrup for about 20 seconds to thin out before pouring over pancakes.
– Use syrup within one year for best flavor. Make a note of when you open it.
– Add flavor with infused syrups like maple cinnamon or maple vanilla. Or try adding extracts directly to plain syrup.
– Drizzle creatively – zig zags, spirals and criss-crosses are fun. Or layer flavored syrups for a flavor explosion in each bite.
– Thicken too-thin syrup by simmering it with a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed into a tablespoon of water.
How pancake syrup fits into a gluten-free diet
Pancake syrup is generally safe for gluten-free diets, as long as you choose a brand that does not contain wheat, barley, rye or malt ingredients. Pure maple syrup is inherently gluten-free. For gluten-free folks, using GF-friendly syrup allows you to enjoy fluffy pancakes or waffles topped with sweet syrup flavor just like everyone else.
Some find that sticking to pure maple syrup is easier, since you don’t have to scrutinize labels. Maple syrup also fits into gluten-free diets like paleo that emphasize natural, minimally processed foods. However, plenty of standard brands like Aunt Jemima also offer GF syrup options.
drizzling syrup over your favorite gluten-free pancake recipe adds sweetness, moisture, and makes for a memorable breakfast. While gluten-free pancakes and waffles are a treat any time of day, maple syrup can also be used to enhance gluten-free oatmeal, yogurt, fruit salads, ice cream and more.
Delicious gluten-free pancake recipes
Once you’ve got your gluten-free syrup picked out, you’ll want amazing pancake recipes to show it off. Here are some gluten-free pancake and waffle options to consider:
Fluffy Banana Oat Pancakes
Ingredients: Gluten-free oat flour, mashed banana, eggs, vanilla, baking powder, cinnamon, nut butter, milk of choice.
Method: Mash bananas and mix wet ingredients in one bowl, dry in another, then mix everything until just combined.
Protein Pancakes
Ingredients: Eggs, cottage cheese, vanilla, baking powder, protein powder of choice, milk.
Method: Blend cottage cheese and eggs together first, then mix in remaining ingredients. Fry up thicker pancakes.
Classic Buttermilk Pancakes
Ingredients: Gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, sugar, buttermilk, eggs, butter.
Method: Whisk wet and dry ingredients separately then combine. Cook on a buttered griddle and top with butter also.
Vegan Buckwheat Pancakes
Ingredients: Buckwheat flour, non-dairy milk, aquafaba (chickpea liquid), baking powder, vegetable oil.
Method: Mix all ingredients until just combined. Let batter rest for 10 minutes before cooking.
Dutch Baby Pancake
Ingredients: Gluten-free flour, milk, eggs, vanilla, salt, butter.
Method: Whisk batter ingredients together and pour into a hot buttered skillet or baking pan. Cook in the oven until puffed and golden.
Gluten Free Waffles
Ingredients: Gluten-free flour, brown rice flour, tapioca starch, sugar, baking powder, oil, milk, eggs.
Method: Whisk together wet and dry ingredients in separate bowls then mix everything until combined. Cook according to waffle iron instructions.
Conclusion
With so many tasty, readily available gluten-free syrups on the market today, avoiding gluten no longer means missing out on drizzling flavorful syrup over your favorite pancakes or waffles. Brands like Maple Grove Farms, Wholesome Sweeteners, Aunt Jemima and others offer gluten-free formulas made with cane sugar or corn syrup that mimic the taste and texture of traditional syrups. Going with 100% pure maple syrup is also an easy option for gluten-free diets, since maple syrup is naturally devoid of gluten. Homemade fruit or nut-based syrups are another alternative. With the right gluten-free syrup topping off a tall stack of fluffy pancakes or crisp waffles, you can start your day off right even with food sensitivities.
