Frequently Asked Questions

How is maple syrup made?

Maple syrup begins as sap inside the sugar maple tree. During late winter, when nights freeze and days warm, the sap starts to flow. We tap the trees, gather the sap, and bring it to the sugar shack. After running it through a reverse osmosis machine to remove some water, the concentrated sap is boiled in the evaporator until it thickens into syrup. Finally, it’s filtered and hot-packed into bottles. Learn more on our From Sap to Syrup page.

What's the difference between grades of maple syrup?

All maple syrup is made the same way. The grade refers only to color and flavor and changes naturally throughout the season as the sap changes. 

  • Amber: Smooth, balanced, classic maple flavor. Great for everyday pouring. 
  • Dark: Bold, rich, and more robust. Shines in cooking and baking.

 

How long does maple syrup last?

  • Unopened: Up to 2–4 years in a cool, dark place
  • Opened: Up to 1 year in the refrigerator
  • Frozen: Maple syrup never freezes solid and can be stored indefinitely
 

Pure maple syrup contains no preservatives, so proper storage matters.

How do you store maple syrup?

Unopened syrup can be stored in a pantry or cupboard. Once opened, refrigerate it to keep it fresh and prevent mold. If mold ever forms on top, simply remove it, bring the syrup to a boil, cool it, and store it again — the syrup is still safe.

Where can I buy the sweetest maple syrup in New Hampshire?

Right here at Dodge’s Sugar Shack!

You can buy directly from the sugar shack in Landaff, at several local NH shops, or by contacting Jeff for shipping anywhere in the U.S. or internationally.  

Local retailers (prices may vary):

  • Wildflour Café, Lisbon, NH 
  • Riverside Market, Lisbon, NH 
  • Bretton Woods Market & Deli, Twin Mountain, NH
  • Moulton’s Market, Amherst, NH 
 

You can also order by email or phone. See details on our Maple Shop page. 

What are some things I can make with maple syrup?

Maple syrup is a natural sweetener perfect for baking. It adds moisture, depth, and warm caramel notes to desserts. Try it in:

  • Muffins
  • Quick breads
  • Scones
  • Granola
  • Cakes
  • Cookies
  • Glazes and frostings
 

Visit our Recipes page for Maple Banana Bread, Maple Scones, Maple Coffee Cake, Maple Walnut Muffins, and more.

How many calories are in maple syrup, and how does it compare to sugar and honey?

Pure maple syrup, cane sugar, and honey all provide similar amounts of calories, but there are small differences:

  • Maple syrup: About 52 calories per tablespoon
  • Honey: About 64 calories per tablespoon
  • White (cane) sugar: About 49 calories per tablespoon
 

Maple syrup has slightly more calories per tablespoon than granulated sugar, but fewer than honey. The bigger difference is in what you get with those calories: pure maple syrup also contains small amounts of minerals like manganese, zinc, and potassium, while white sugar is more “empty” nutritionally. No matter which sweetener you choose, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Maple Syrup just brings a lot more flavor to the table.