Light corn syrup is 100% glucose made by obtaining sugar from cornstarch. A little vanilla flavoring is also often included in it. It is mostly used as an ingredient in making candy, popcorn, caramel, sweet sauces, and frosting. In contrast to sugar, it does not form crystals; therefore, it can bear severe high cooking temperatures. This gooey syrup is made up of corn by refining and obtaining glucose (C6H12O11) from the plant. It is a transparent colored liquid. It is an invert sugar (liquid at room temp. and prevents it from crystallizing), phenomenal for sweet making. It also does the work of adding shine and body to deserts. But what if you don’t have it stocked? You swap to a substitute that might already be in your kitchen. We’re here to help you with that, and we’ve set forth some of the best substitutes for corn syrup.
Seven healthy substitutes for corn syrup
1. Sugar with water
This syrup substitutes the best for baked products, but due to the crystals that sugar forms at high temperatures, it is not ideal for candies that need are to be heated past the soft-ball stage (i.e.112.778 C) for it may distort the texture of the candy. The ingredients are as follows:
- 1 cup granulated sugar in ¼ cup warm water
For dark corn syrup:
- 1 cup brown sugar in ¼ cup water
Corn syrup is used to add sweetness to a recipe and not flavor, so in terms of taste, sugar is certainly the best substitute. Pies and coated fruits incur the liquid form as a great substitute.
2. Honey
Honey is an equal replacement to corn syrup, but unlike corn syrup, it doesn’t prevent crystallization like sugar. So it isn’t considered the prime option for making candy or caramel, but it goes well with other recipes for as long as its distinct flavor doesn’t bother you.
TIP: The more sheer the honey, the gentler the flavor.
Honey is a good substitute in baked recipes as it retains the moisture of the product. Honey might add a bit of flavor. The difference will be indefinite for as long as you use honey of a bit lighter color. Heating honey converts it into a glue-type liquid that is difficult to digest. It uses only one ingredient:
- 1 cup honey
Honey has many health benefits, and to receive them, one must consume it in its pure and raw form. When it comes to honey, the possibilities are limitless.
3. Agave Nectar
Agave nectar (agave syrup) is another alternative to take into consideration as it has a tender flavor. It won’t be instrumental in candy making but can be used in sauces, pies, and other desserts. It is a one-to-one substitution for corn syrup. I would use agave first as a substitute. Its flavor is a bit more indistinct than honey. And it has the same sweetness. To use it as a substitute for corn syrup, you need to use agave nectar as:
- 1 cup of agave nectar
Its one tablespoon carries about sixty calories, which is more than the exact similar amount of sugar.
4. Brown Rice Syrup
When rice starches are broken into simple sugars and boiled into a syrup, they form ‘Brown rice syrup.’ This syrup is mainly used in candy making as it does not form crystals and prevents it. Its consistency is the same as that of corn syrup, with the same nutty flavor, which is a lot similar to cooked brown rice and is not suitable for all dishes. You can go for brown rice syrup if you need a corn syrup substitute that has to pass the hardball stage. Its chemical properties are similar to that of corn syrup. To make this:
- 1 cup of brown rice syrup
Brown rice syrup is a healthy corn syrup substitute, gives your body fiber and a little bit of potassium and sodium.
5. Cane syrup
Cane syrup is mainly used in the south and is a prevalent ingredient. It has a bit of thick consistency like that of molasses, which is obtained by stewing sugar cane juice. It doesn’t prevent crystallization due to which it is not a good substitute for candies and caramel making, but it works great as a replacement of corn syrup, especially in pies. It can be done with:
- 1/4th cup of cane syrup
It’s one tablespoon is equal to sixty calories as that of one tablespoon of sugar but without additives.
6. Golden syrup
Golden syrup is perfect as it can be substituted for corn syrup and can also be used in candy making. This staple has a light, butter sort of flavor and can be used instead of corn syrup. For this you need:
- 1 cup of golden syrup
It has the same chemical properties as corn syrup.
7. Maple syrup
In all situations, Maple syrup is an excellent substitute. It contains corn syrup, so it’s just the same. Avoid it if you’re allergic to corn syrup, of course. It is used in topping for pancakes as it has an earthy flavor. For it you need to use:
- 1 cup of maple syrup
Conclusion
Whether or not you agree with the benefits and disadvantages of corn syrup, it’s used in a massive quantity in the preparation of processed products. It is commonly used for pancakes’ topping and in pies. These substitutes would work well for light as well as dark corn syrup. Though it is not very bad for health but not even that good, one should consume in a moderate amount. The next time you need it for a recipe, take into consideration one of these best substitutes for corn syrup.
You can get corn syrup (also called glucose syrup and confectioner’s glucose) from your local store. It is made using wheat, rice, potatoes, and a handful of other things.
FUN FACT: You can make corn syrup easily at home by using sugar, water, and cream of tarter.
Enjoy!
