Ever wanted to make your own maple syrup? With a few tools of the trade and a maple tree in the backyard, you’re just a few easy steps away from coating your waffles and cakes in homemade maple syrup.

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 ...