Fall is here which means that it is officially time to start having pancakes and maple syrup for breakfast! Lucky for you, the Costco Maple Syrup is exactly what you are looking for and it is also a great bargain.
The Kirkland Signature Maple Syrup sold at Costco is 100% real.
The maple syrup does not contain any:
- Diluents such as water or corn syrup
- Artificial colors
- Preservatives
This is 100% maple syrup and must be refrigerated after opening.
Where Does it Come From?
The Kirkland Signature maple syrup is imported from Canada. Approximately 80% of the world’s maple syrup is produced in Canada and most of that production happens in Quebec.
The syrup, which is certified Organic by Ecocert Canada, is drawn down in the spring, typically between February and April.
Taste Test!
Authentic maple syrup is sweet and flavorful with a distinct taste that sets it apart from other syrups. The flavor of authentic maple syrup is often described as rich, smooth, and buttery with a subtle hint of vanilla. It has a deep, amber color and a thin, silky texture that coats the tongue and mouth.
The taste of authentic maple syrup can vary depending on the grade of syrup, with lighter grades having a milder flavor and darker grades having a more intense, robust flavor. Lighter grades of maple syrup are often used for pancakes and waffles, while darker grades are commonly used for baking, cooking, and as a topping for desserts like ice cream.
Kirkland Signature maple syrup is US Grade A – Amber Color, Rich Taste.
The “letter grade” of maple syrup is now irrelevant as all maple syrup is officially marked as “Grade A” to help with marketing. The true descriptor of the syrup is the designation of “Amber Color, Rich Taste”.
The “Amber Color, Rich Taste” designation indicates that this a nice “middle of the road” flavor profile that makes the syrup good for a wide range of applications including baking, pancakes, serving over fruit, etc.
Maple Syrup vs Pancake Syrup
I saw some people complaining on Facebook (gasp!) that the Costco maple syrup was too thin and runny on their pancakes. I thought that was kind of funny since that is exactly what they should expect from real maple syrup!
It turns out that while maple syrup and pancake syrup look similar they are actually quite different in taste and composition. Maple syrup is made from the sap of maple trees, while pancake syrup is typically made from a blend of corn syrup and artificial flavorings.
In terms of taste, maple syrup has a rich and complex flavor with a sweetness that is balanced by subtle notes of vanilla and caramel. Pancake syrup, on the other hand, is often sweeter and lacks the depth of flavor that comes from natural ingredients.
In addition, maple syrup has a thinner consistency than pancake syrup, which tends to be thicker and stickier. This makes maple syrup easier to pour and spread, while pancake syrup can be more difficult to work with.
Overall, while both syrups can be used as toppings for pancakes and waffles, maple syrup is considered to be the more premium option due to its natural ingredients and superior flavor.
Costco Value
The Costco Maple Syrup is Item Number 679131 and is found in the non-refrigerated grocery aisles.
You can buy a 1 liter (33.8 ounce) jug of Organic Maple Syrup at Costco for $12.49.
According to Mapleworx, the average price for a pint of maple syrup in 2020 was $10.80. Since there are about two pints per liter that means that the Kirkland brand costs about $5.91 per pint.
It looks like, even despite rampant inflation, Costco is selling their maple syrup at an extreme discount compared to 2020 prices and is a very good deal.