This really is a personal preference. If you choose to omit it, the bars will be only lightly sweetened by the protein powder. This option is especially good if you’re looking to reduce the added sugars in your diet. Some individuals, however, may wish to have a sweeter bar so in that case, I would recommend adding the maple syrup. Keep in mind that the maple syrup will add a few extra grams of sugar to each bar. Even with the addition of the maple syrup though, these bars will still be lower in sugar than your typical store-bought bar.