Doodle's Sugarbush honored with 2025 Value-Added Agriculture Award from MSU Product Center
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EmailThe Blanchard-based maple syrup company is recognized for their product variety and expansive wholesale market.
The Michigan State University Product Center is proud to announce that Lynette and Steve Henson, the visionary owners of Doodle's Sugarbush located in Blanchard, Michigan, have been awarded the prestigious 2025 Value-Added Agriculture Award at the Making It In Michigan Conference and Trade Show. This accolade not only recognizes the exceptional quality of Doodle’s products but also highlights the Henson’s remarkable journey in building their business from the ground up.
Founded in 1998, Doodle's Sugarbush, LLC has become synonymous with award-winning maple syrup products achieved through a unique blend of modern technology and time-honored tradition. Their unwavering dedication to this sweet craft means they live, eat, and breathe maple every single day of the year.
Doodle's Sugarbush boasts an impressive array of products that highlight the versatility of maple syrup. Their offerings include Grade A and B maple syrup, barrel-aged variants, flavor infusions, as well as maple spices and seasonings. They also produce delightful treats such as maple sugar, maple coffee and tea, maple cream, maple candies, and various gift baskets. Finally, top this off with their maple vinegars and barbecue mustards. Each product is crafted with care, ensuring that every drop of their syrup is a reflection of the rich Michigan landscape.
A particularly striking aspect of Doodle’s Sugarbush is its branding and packaging. Gift labeling features iconic symbols of Michigan, such as the Michigan map, Mackinaw Bridge, northern lights, American eagle, and the Round Island Lighthouse. Even seasonal images like a snowman or a gingerbread man can be found adorning their packages, making them perfect gifts for any occasion.
With a presence in over 200 grocery stores across southeastern Michigan and northern Ohio—including well-known retailers like Whole Foods, Westborn Market, and Kroger—Doodle’s Sugarbush has successfully carved out a substantial niche in the maple syrup market. Additionally, their products can be savored at top restaurants throughout southern Michigan and into the Chicago area, further solidifying their reputation for excellence.
Mollie Woods, director of the MSU Product Center said, “This award from the MSU Product Center is a testament to the Henson’s relentless pursuit of quality. By setting their sights on value-added products and fostering community connections, they have indeed built a thriving business that embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship.”
I had the pleasure of being the MSU Product Center Innovation Counselor that worked with Doodle's Sugarbush on packaging and wholesale marketing, and believe they serve as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. They demonstrate that with passion, dedication, and a clear vision, it is possible to create a successful business. Congratulations to Lynette and Steve Henson for receiving the 2025 Value-Added Agriculture Award! We look forward to seeing how Doodle's Sugarbush continues to grow and innovate in the years to come.
Visit Doodle’s Sugarbush website to find retail and wholesale locations.
For more information on the requirements on maple syrup in Michigan, see the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) guidance here.
MSU Product Center
Michigan State University Extension and the MSU Product Center assist entrepreneurs and businesses to develop products and services in the food and agriculture markets. Its team of experts consults with clients on a one-on-one basis, helping new entrepreneurs navigate from concept development to launch and beyond. The MSU Product Center also offers specialized services such as labeling, packaging, and nutritional analysis. If you are interested in business counseling from the MSU Product Center, please visit our website.
