Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Gina Pace covers great drinks—and where to sip them. Many home bartenders treat maple syrup like a richer simple syrup.

Maple sugar is simply crystallized maple syrup, but it's so much more than that. With deep, woodsy sweetness and a long history in North America, it's a minimally processed alternative to white sugar ...

Maple syrup and honey are natural sweeteners that can be used to replace refined sugar. Maple syrup may aid digestion, while honey may help heal wounds. Both raise blood sugar a little less swiftly ...