Tree sap gathering and syrup making

[duluthralphie]

A good week ahead for sap collecting. And I have to sit it out. The woods is snow free it is a perfect season. I want to be collecting now. Sigh

 

[mowin]

We had 5 day and nights above freezing. Still getting clear-ish sap, but I can smell a faint yeasty oder. Just about over.

 

[itsasmallfarm]

got my first batch of syrup done a few days ago, about 2 cups and wow is it ever good this year, tastes like butterscotch mixed with maple (am using box elder/Manitoba maple what ever you guys prefer to call it) got about 20 some gallons of sap to cook down this weekend so far. and its flowing really good the sap now.

 

[mowin]

got my first batch of syrup done a few days ago, about 2 cups and wow is it ever good this year, tastes like butterscotch mixed with maple (am using box elder/Manitoba maple what ever you guys prefer to call it) got about 20 some gallons of sap to cook down this weekend so far. and its flowing really good the sap now.

It definitely is good stuff. Our season ended this past weekend. Too many warm days.

 

[duluthralphie]

got my first batch of syrup done a few days ago, about 2 cups and wow is it ever good this year, tastes like butterscotch mixed with maple (am using box elder/Manitoba maple what ever you guys prefer to call it) got about 20 some gallons of sap to cook down this weekend so far. and its flowing really good the sap now.

The first sap or sap after a few days hard freeze from box elder is better than any other maple syrup.

That Carmel taste is unbelievable. When I tell people I keep my maple syrup and box elder syrup separate for the first week or so they assume it’s because the maple sap makes better syrup.

They are amazed when I allow them a taste test.

 

[itsasmallfarm]

Cooking down today! Got about 12 gallons to cook. Did use an ro system to cut quite a few gallons off.

 

[itsasmallfarm]

well made my first batch of maple butter the other day.

and wow, it tastes just like maple butter from the store (i used box elder/Manitoba maple) no sugar maple here. but it was really good.

 

[duluthralphie]

well made my first batch of maple butter the other day.

and wow, it tastes just like maple butter from the store (i used box elder/Manitoba maple) no sugar maple here. but it was really good.

How did you make it? Photos are required.

 

[itsasmallfarm]

How did you make it? Photos are required.

my recipe i read, called for 2 cups of syrup and 1/4 teaspoon of butter, cooked to 24 degrees above boiling point.

then i thought i messed up as it was more like taffy then butter, turns out it helps using an electric mixer to whip it to peanut butter texture. turned out great.

 

[itsasmallfarm]

Here is the finished product. Did not take pictures making it as i did not want to mess up my first batch.