Cracker Barrel’s Pure Natural Pancake Syrup has become a cherished staple for breakfast lovers everywhere. The unique blend of golden sweetness and smooth, rich consistency creates an inviting drizzle for stacks of pancakes and waffles.
Table of Contents
What Is Cracker Barrel’s Natural Pancake Syrup?
Cracker Barrel’s Natural Pancake Syrup is a sweet breakfast syrup sold by the Cracker Barrel chain, but it is not 100% pure maple syrup.
Ingredients:
- Pure Maple Syrup: 1 cup
- Pure Cane Syrup: ¾ to 1 cup
- Butter (optional): 1 tablespoon
Instructions:
- Combine the Syrups: In a medium saucepan, pour in 1 cup of pure maple syrup and ¾ to 1 cup pure cane syrup. Adjust the cane syrup amount to match your taste preference or desired sweetness.
- Heat Gently: Place the saucepan over low to medium heat. Warm the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the syrups are fully blended and just heated through, about 3–5 minutes. Avoid bringing it to a boil.
- Add Butter (Optional): For extra richness, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter until melted and fully combined.
- Serve: Pour the warm syrup over pancakes, waffles, or French toast. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat as needed.
Tips For Cracker Barrel’s Natural Pancake Syrup:
- Syrup Selection: Using pure maple syrup and high-quality cane syrup brings the most authentic flavor. Avoid artificial or “pancake” syrups as they change the taste profile.
- Low Heat: Heat the mixture just until warmed excessive heat can break down flavors and lead to crystallization.
- Optional Flavor Boost: For a Cracker Barrel-style twist, a tiny pinch of salt or a drop of vanilla extract can enhance depth.
- Storage: Store your homemade syrup in a glass jar or bottle in the fridge. It will keep well for up to a month.
- Consistency: If you prefer a slightly thicker syrup, simmer gently for a few extra minutes, but be mindful not to overcook.
What To Serve Cracker Barrel’s Natural Pancake Syrup With
- Classic Pancakes and Waffles: The most popular use for the Cracker Barrel’s Natural Pancake Syrup is generously pouring it over stacks of fluffy buttermilk pancakes or golden waffles. The syrup seeps into the crevices, adding sweetness and moisture that complements light, airy textures.
- French Toast: Slices of thick, custardy French toast absorb the syrup, creating a luscious bite every time. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar and fresh berries for extra flavor.
- Breakfast Sausages and Bacon: Sweet syrup drizzled over savory breakfast meats like sausage links or crispy bacon offers a delicious interplay of flavors. Many enjoy dipping each bite directly into a syrup pool on the plate.
- Biscuits: Warm, fluffy biscuits split open and topped with a pat of butter become even more indulgent with a spoonful of this rich syrup, creating a comforting Southern-inspired treat.
- Cornbread: Cornbread’s slightly crumbly, slightly sweet profile matches exceptionally well with a drizzle of pancake syrup, turning it into a delightful breakfast, brunch, or snack option.
- Oatmeal or Porridge: Add a splash of syrup to creamy oatmeal, cream of wheat, or rice porridge to bring warmth and sweetness. Top with nuts or fruit for added texture and flavor.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layer plain or vanilla yogurt with granola, berries, and a ribbon of syrup for a richly flavored breakfast parfait or dessert.
- Fried Chicken and Waffles: A favorite for brunch, crispy fried chicken atop warm waffles becomes irresistible when finished with Cracker Barrel’s pure natural pancake syrup.
- Dessert Applications: Try drizzling the syrup over vanilla ice cream, bread pudding, or even baked apples. The subtle molasses note from the cane syrup complements many dessert flavors.
- Sweet Potato Dishes: Roasted or mashed sweet potatoes, or sweet potato pancakes, are enhanced by the syrup’s deep sweetness, harmonizing beautifully with their earthiness.
Health Benefits
Natural Ingredients vs. Artificial Syrups: Unlike many commercial syrups, Cracker Barrel’s syrup is made from pure maple syrup and cane syrup, free from artificial flavors, colors, and high-fructose corn syrup. This more natural composition can be gentler on your body compared to highly processed alternatives.
Nutrient Content of Maple Syrup:
- Manganese: Supports bone health and metabolic functions.
- Zinc: Important for immune system function.
- Antioxidants: Maple syrup contains antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation.
Cane Syrup Benefits:
- Iron
- Calcium
- Magnesium
Lower Glycemic Index Than Some Alternatives: Maple syrup has a lower glycemic index than many other sweeteners, meaning it can cause a slower rise in blood sugar. While cane syrup is higher on the glycemic index, the blend is still preferable to high-fructose corn syrup-heavy alternatives.
No Artificial Additives or Preservatives: Cracker Barrel’s syrup avoids chemical preservatives and artificial additives, making it a better choice for those looking to minimize their intake of processed foods.
Dietary Suitability:
- Vegetarian and Vegan friendly (contains no animal-derived ingredients)
- Gluten-free (does not contain wheat or gluten-based binders)
- Suitable for those seeking simple, whole-food sweeteners
Final Thoughts
Cracker Barrel’s Pure Natural Pancake Syrup brings a comforting, homey flavor to breakfast tables everywhere. With its blend of pure maple and cane syrup, this syrup offers a warmth and depth that enhances pancakes, waffles, French toast, and a variety of other dishes.
More Syrup Recipes:
- Copycat Torani Pumpkin Pie Syrup Recipe
- Copycat Monin Strawberry Syrup Recipe
- Copycat Monin Pumpkin Spice Syrup Recipe
- Copycat Monin Coffee Syrup Recipe
Ingredients
- Pure Maple Syrup: 1 cup
- Pure Cane Syrup: ¾ to 1 cup
- Butter (optional): 1 tablespoon
Instructions
- Combine the Syrups: In a medium saucepan, pour in 1 cup of pure maple syrup and ¾ to 1 cup pure cane syrup. Adjust the cane syrup amount to match your taste preference or desired sweetness.
- Heat Gently: Place the saucepan over low to medium heat. Warm the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the syrups are fully blended and just heated through, about 3–5 minutes. Avoid bringing it to a boil.
- Add Butter (Optional): For extra richness, stir in 1 tablespoon of butter until melted and fully combined.
- Serve: Pour the warm syrup over pancakes, waffles, or French toast. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat as needed.
