Some foods just seem to evoke the smell, taste and feel of chilly weather months.

As a beloved fall and winter flavor, maple syrup can be much more than a breakfast condiment or pancake topping - it can be an impressive way to transform simple, seasonal snacks.

A delicious beverage or dessert can be enhanced with the flavor of maple. For example, chef Megan Miller, of Baker Miller in Chicago, recommends the crisp, fresh taste of Homemade Maple Cream Soda as a seasonal beverage that pairs perfectly with the smoky kick of Stacy's(r) Fire Roasted Jalapeno Pita Chips - a pantry staple in her home.

For a sweet treat, chef Joanne Chang, of Flour in Boston, suggests New England Maple Apple Dip. This dip delivers the flavors of the season with maple syrup, fresh apples and cinnamon as another delectable accompaniment to pita chips.

By combining these seasonal ingredients, you can create delicious pairings and mouthwatering desserts for winter. Find more chef selections and featured pairings at stacyssnacks.com.

New England Maple Apple Dip
Prep time: 5 minutes
Servings: 6

• 1 cup cream cheese
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 apples, peeled and chopped into 1/4-inch cubes
• Stacy's Cinnamon Sugar Pita Chips or Stacy's Simply Naked Pita Chips

1. Using food processor, blend cream cheese with maple syrup, cinnamon and salt until smooth.
2. Fold Greek yogurt into cream cheese mixture; mix in apples.
3. Serve with pita chips.

Homemade Maple Cream Soda
Prep time: 1 minute
Servings: 1

• 1/2 ounce maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon warm water
• ice cubes
• 6 ounces sparkling water
• orange or lemon, for garnish
• Stacy's Fire Roasted Jalapeno Pita Chips

1. Stir maple syrup in warm water to dissolve.
2. Add ice and sparkling water; stir and garnish with orange or lemon.
3. Serve with pita chips.

Sponsored by Stacy's