Spicy Maple Syrup

This spicy maple syrup recipe is the perfect combination of sweet and heat. Maple syrup is infused with chili powder for a spicy, sweet start to the day that's perfect on pancakes, waffles, or as a dipping sauce for sausage.

I love maple syrup, but I also love to mix things up. That's why I decided to add some heat to my sweet with this delicious, sweet and spicy breakfast addition. I also LOVE using this spicy maple syrup for chicken and waffles. You will too.

Spicy Maple Syrup Recipe

This was inspired by my butter pecan syrup recipe on this site and pairs well with this amazing fried chicken and waffles recipe and these chicken waffle tacos.

Ingredients

It only takes three simple ingredients to make this recipe. You might even have them all in your kitchen right now.

• Maple syrup
• Paprika
• Ancho chili powder

How to Make Spicy Maple Syrup

Making this syrup couldn't be easier. It only takes a few minutes and a couple of steps to make!

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

Combine the maple syrup, ancho chili powder, and paprika in a small saucepan.

Step 2: Simmer the Syrup

Bring the syrup mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened. Remove from the heat and cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Hint: Whisk constantly while simmering to prevent any sticking or burning and to make sure flavors are evenly distributed.

Substitutions and Variations

Don't have the correct ingredients on hand or want to change something up? Here are some helpful tips for you to change this spicy maple syrup recipe.

• Smoked Paprika - You can use smoked paprika in place of paprika for smokier flavor.
• Cayenne Powder - If you don't have ancho chili powder, you can use cayenne powder or your favorite chili powder.
• Spicy: Add a teaspoon of chili pepper flakes, jalapeno powder, smoked jalapeno powder, or chipotle powder to the syrup to add some more heat. I will also occasionally add a teaspoon of our homemade hot pepper sauce, or use your favorite hot sauce, to the syrup mixture.
• No Maple Syrup - use honey, agave nectar, or molasses instead realizing the flavor profile vwill change without the maple flavor.
• Lemon Zest - Lemon zest adds a nice, bright note to the syrup.
• More Sweet - Add a little brown sugar.
• Sugar Free - To reduce calories, use sugar free maple syrup instead.
• More Flavors - Add a dash of vanilla extract, nutmeg, cumin, ground ginger, garlic powder, onion powder or cinnamon for extra flavor while syrup is simmering, if desired.

If you love maple syrup recipes like this, you may also enjoy our Honey Mustard with Maple Syrup or Butter Pecan Syrup. You've just found the perfect spicy maple syrup for chicken and waffles and so much more.

Storage

Allow syrup to cool before transferring it to a mason jar or other airtight container.

Store this spicy maple syrup in a container with a tight-fitting lid for up to 2 weeks inside your fridge.

What to Serve with Spicy Syrup

Serve warm over pancakes, waffles, French toast, ice cream, roasted vegetables, breakfast sausages or sausages or any other favorite dish that could use a sweet kick of sweet maple spiciness!

Tips

Although this recipe is incredibly easy, I have a couple of tips to help you make it the best it can be.

• A whisk works much better than a spoon for this recipe.
• Whisk continuously when simmering your syrup to prevent sticking or burning and evenly distribute flavors.
• Taste the syrup before serving to adjust the spice level to suit your personal preference. Slowly add until you reach your desired spice level.

FAQ

Do you have questions about spicy maple syrup? Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about this spicy maple syrup recipe.

Video

More Waffle Recipes

Do you like waffles? Here are some recipes you may also like to try.

Spicy Maple Syrup

Ready to get cooking? Remember that you can print this recipe if you would like.