In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring sugar and 3/4 cup water to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until sugar is dissolved, about 3 minutes. Add optional ...

Maple syrup, naturally sweet with its lush notes of vanilla and caramel, is one of the first signs of spring. Now, maple’s lesser-known forest cousin birch is having its day. Nature’s unrequited gifts ...