Does Log Cabin Syrup Contain any Maple Syrup?

When I was a kid, Log Cabin Syrup prided itself with prominently displaying its “10 Real Maple” on the label. However, over the years, this has changed significantly. For at least the last 35 years, if not longer, Log Cabin Syrup has largely been maple-free. The company has reduced its use of real maple syrup and eventually removed the mention of maple from the label entirely. There is some historical speculation that it briefly contained artificial maple flavor, but I can’t confirm that with any certainty.

Authentic Maple Syrup vs. Log Cabin Syrup

For those looking for a more authentic experience, authentic 100 percent maple syrup can often be found at a much lower price point. When comparing quart-size jugs, the cost difference is quite significant. For instance, the price at Sam’s Club is $10.38 per quart, while at Costco, it’s $14.99 per quart. Purchasing from large box warehouse stores or restaurant supply stores can further reduce the cost. Supermarkets, on the other hand, typically sell it for $18.00 to $22.50 per quart with sizes ranging from pints to smaller portions often available for around $6.99.

DIY Pancake Syrup: A Cheaper Alternative

When my kids were younger, and they used a lot of syrup, I made my own pancake syrup by boiling pure maple with an equal part of corn syrup. This homemade option tasted remarkably similar to pure maple syrup and was significantly cheaper than buying wholesale pure maple syrup. As my family has grown smaller and we now have just my adult son and the occasional grandkids, I have returned to using only pure maple syrup.

Why Throw Out Log Cabin Syrup?

I recall that twenty years ago, Log Cabin Syrup did contain 10 real maple. However, when I recently bought some, I threw it away because it tasted like it contained a very small amount of maple syrup, possibly as little as 4%. It’s possible that different versions of Log Cabin Syrup contain varying quantities of maple syrup.

Conclusion

In summary, Log Cabin Syrup is no longer 100 percent maple syrup. It has been significantly altered over the years to reduce the use of real maple syrup. For those who prefer a more authentic experience, it’s worth considering the cost of purchasing pure maple syrup and handmade alternatives can also be a cost-effective and tasty option.