Maple Baked Beans
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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These homemade maple baked beans offer a sophisticated, savoury depth that simply cannot be found in a tin. By using dried navy beans and a slow-cooking method, the legumes absorb the rich flavours of maple syrup, molasses and spicy mustard, resulting in a tender texture and a complex, caramelised sauce. The addition of smoky bacon provides a salty contrast to the sweetness, creating a comforting dish that fills the kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
As a high-protein vegetarian-adaptable meal, this recipe is perfect for a hearty weekend brunch served on thick slices of buttered sourdough, or as a substantial side dish for a traditional roast. Because they are slow-baked at a low temperature, these beans develop a thick, glossy glaze that makes them feel truly indulgent while remaining a nutritious, fibre-rich choice for the whole family.
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Ingredients for Maple Baked Beans
450g dried navy or great northern beans
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard
2 tablespoons molasses
60ml ketchup
120ml pure maple syrup
2 thick strips bacon
How to make Maple Baked Beans
In a large pan, cover the beans with water. Bring to a boil and simmer until tender, about 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 149°C.
In a bowl, combine everything else except the bacon. Stir in the beans.
Place 1 bacon strip at the bottom of a large ovenproof dish or Dutch oven. Pour the bean mixture over it, then push the other strip in.
Add just enough boiling water to the pot to cover everything.
Cover the pot with aluminum foil, then a lid. Bake for 5 hours, checking hourly to make sure the beans aren't drying out. (Add more water as necessary to keep them submerged.) 7 Uncover for the last half hour to brown the top, if desired.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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