Reach for a corn syrup alternative that you may already have in your pantry.
The thick liquid sweetener plays a role in both texture and flavor for many baking and candy-making recipes.
While corn syrup is still made from corn, it is not the same as high fructose corn syrup.
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However, there are ways to create similar results.
What Is Corn Syrup?
Corn syrup is a light-colored, thick syrup that is made from the starch of corn.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel
It is primarily made of glucose.
Recipes call for one of two varieties: light and dark corn syrup.
Light corn syrup is clear and has a mild, vanilla-like taste.
Credit:Caitlin Bensel
Dark corn syrup has molasses added, giving it a deeper color and flavor.
They can be used interchangeably, though it may affect the taste and color of the dish.
High-fructose corn syrup is different from corn syrup and is made by converting some of the glucose to fructose.
What Are The Best Substitutes For Corn Syrup?
Because its a thick liquid, its a great 1:1 swap in baking andcandy recipes.
Brown Rice Syrup
Brown rice syrup is produced by breaking down the starches found in brown rice.
The brown syrup has a similar consistency to corn syrup and its sweetness level is almost identical.
However, it does have a stronger, nuttier flavor to consider when adding it to specific recipes.
Use a 1:1 ratio in baking or candy-making recipes that have complementary flavors.
Maple Syrup
Puremaple syrupis crafted by concentrating the sap of a sugar maple tree.
Use a 1:1 swap for corn syrup in baked goods, but avoid using this swap for candy making.
Cane Syrup
Cane syrup is a dark, viscous syrup that is made from sugar cane stalks.
While it looks similar to molasses, the flavor isnt quite as strong.
Use a 1:1 swap for corn syrup in baking recipes, but skip this swap for candy making.
Agave Syrup
Agave is made by concentrating the sap from agave plants.
It has a similar consistency to corn syrup, and its flavor isnt very strong.
Its a great 1:1 swap, but keep in mind that different agave syrups have varying sweetness levels.
You may find that some agave syrups are sweeter than corn syrup, while others arent as sweet.
Use it forbaked goods, but skip this swap for candy making.
However, molasses is not as sweet as corn syrup and has an overpowering flavor.
This swap will significantly affect the flavor of the recipe and should only be used with complementary ingredients.
Black Treacle
Black treacle is a dark, sweet syrup thats very similar to molasses.
Tapioca Syrup
Tapioca syrup is made from the root vegetable cassava.
Are The Alternatives Better For You?
These substitutes aren’t necessarily healthier than corn syrup.
Some do have a small amount of nutrients and aren’t as processed as corn syrup.
Honey contains antioxidants and minerals like magnesium and potassium, whilemaple syrupcontains manganese, zinc, and iron.
Brown rice syrup has small amounts of calcium and potassium.
Even with the additional nutrients, these sweeteners are still high in sugar and should be eaten in moderation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Corn syrup is a refined sugar made from corn.
Just like any sweetener, it is high in calories that dont add anything beneficial to your diet.
Because corn syrup is a sugar, it brings sweetness to a recipe.
Instead of omitting it altogether, choose an alternative as a worthy swap.
To find the best corn syrup substitute, think about both texture and flavor.
Is it a recipe that requires an exact match to produce the same texture?
Is it okay to have a treat thats not quite as sweet?
If so, you may be able to use a substitute thats not as sweet as corn syrup.
Center for Science in the Public Interest.High-fructose corn syrup.
