Maple syrup and coffee are two foods that have their own distinct appeal. But have you ever thought of combining them? Some producers have begun to do just that, selling coffee-infused maple syrup to the masses. This syrup is delicious if drizzled over pancakes or French toast, and some even enjoy it on ice cream. You can purchase yourself a jar, but it's also not that hard to make your own coffee-infused maple syrup if you'd prefer that approach. Here are two different ways to do it—one method that takes a few minutes and another that takes a couple of days.

Method #1: The Simmer Method

This is the fastest way to make coffee-infused maple syrup, and it does work quite well. However, you do have to be careful not to scorch the syrup. The resulting syrup also tends to have a little less nuanced coffee flavor than that made via the slow infusion below. Still, this is a good option if you want coffee-infused syrup the same day.

You'll need:

• 1 1/2 cups real maple syrup
• 1/4 cup medium roast coffee beans of your choice
• cheesecloth or a French press

Grind the coffee beans coarsely. Place them in a saucepan along with the maple syrup. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and simmer for 5 minutes. Turn the heat off, and allow the syrup to cool for 2 - 3 minutes before pouring it into a French press. Depress the plunger, then pour your infused syrup into a jar. Alternatively, you could pour the syrup through cheesecloth to catch the grounds.

Method #2: The Slow-Infusion Method

This method does not involve heat, and it preserves the nuanced flavor notes in the coffee more effectively. But you do have to be patient as the syrup needs to sit for a couple of weeks before you enjoy it.

You'll need:

• 1 1/2 cups real maple syrup
• 1/3 cup coffee beans, coarsely ground
• cheesecloth

Place the coffee beans and maple syrup in a jar. Stir to combine. Place a lid on the jar, and store it in a cool, dry place for at least 2 weeks. Strain the coffee beans out of the mixture, using cheesecloth. Use as desired.

Whichever method you choose, you should have delicious, coffee-infused maple syrup. Use it yourself, or share a few jars with the people you love as gifts. It's hard to find anything more delicious. 

For more information, contact a local company like Summit Maple Farm.