Maple Syrup vs Brown Sugar
Density, calorie, and weight differences — and whether they can substitute for each other.
Substitution Verdict
Density difference: 38.9%. Significant difference — not a 1:1 substitute, recipe may need rebalancing.
Calories per 100 g: Maple Syrup 260 kcal vs Brown Sugar 380 kcal. Difference: 120 kcal — Brown Sugar is higher.
Weight Conversions (per Spoon and Cup)
| Measure | Maple Syrup | Brown Sugar |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon | 20 g | 13.3 g |
| 1 teaspoon | 6.6 g | 4.4 g |
| 1 cup | 322 g | 213 g |
| Density | 1.32 g/ml | 0.89 g/ml |
Measuring Tips
Use pure maple syrup, not pancake syrup (which is corn syrup with flavoring). Density differs significantly.
Brown sugar should be FIRMLY PACKED into the measuring cup. Loose-packed brown sugar weighs 25-30% less.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Maple Syrup be substituted for Brown Sugar?▾
Significant difference — not a 1:1 substitute, recipe may need rebalancing. Density of Maple Syrup is 1.32 g/ml; Brown Sugar is 0.89 g/ml — a 38.9% difference. But flavor, moisture, and chemistry can still differ — verify suitability for the specific recipe.
How many grams in 1 tablespoon of Maple Syrup vs Brown Sugar?▾
1 tbsp Maple Syrup ≈ 20 g. 1 tbsp Brown Sugar ≈ 13.3 g. By weight: 1 tbsp Maple Syrup = 1.50 tbsp Brown Sugar.
Which has more calories, Maple Syrup or Brown Sugar?▾
Per 100 g: Maple Syrup 260 kcal, Brown Sugar 380 kcal. Brown Sugar has 120 more kcal.
What is Maple Syrup typically used for?▾
Maple Syrup is commonly used in: pancakes, waffles, baking, glazes. Source: usda-fdc.
What is Brown Sugar typically used for?▾
Brown Sugar is commonly used in: chocolate chip cookies, BBQ rubs, banana bread, marinades. Source: king-arthur, usda-fdc.