The dark corn syrup substitutes are made from natural sugar sources. The substitute is healthier because it has no artificial ingredients, and the taste of the dish will be unaffected. They also have a better shelf life than pancake syrups or molasses, so they’re great for using in recipes that call for just a little bit of sweetener. And since they’re not as thick as molasses or honey, you can use them to make drinks like hot chocolate without having to worry about clumping issues. If you need help finding an alternative to dark corn syrup, here’s what you should know before making your purchase!
What is Dark Corn Syrup?
Dark corn syrup is not the same thing as regular corn syrup, although both are made with similar ingredients and have a very similar taste. The difference between dark corn syrup and regular corn syrup is in how the two products are made.
The biggest difference between the two types of syrups is that while regular corn syrup uses an enzyme to react with some of the glucose in order to create more complex sugars, dark corn syrup contains no enzyme at all, leaving it with more unprocessed simple sugars.
This has one big advantage: sugar content. Dark corn syrup contains about 20 percent more sugar than its lighter counterpart; however it also contains slightly less fructose (the type of sugar responsible for high-fructose corn syrup’s bad reputation).
In terms of flavor, dark corn syrup is a bit less sweet and has a more caramel-like taste than regular corn syrup. This makes it a popular choice for making things like barbecue sauce, ice cream topping, and other sweet treats. Dark corn syrup is also sometimes used as a substitute for honey or molasses in recipes.
So is dark corn syrup healthier than regular corn syrup? Not really. Both syrups are high in sugar and calories, and neither one has any real nutritional benefits. However, if you’re looking for a slightly-less-sweet alternative to regular corn syrup, dark corn syrup is a good option. Just be careful not to overdo it; like all sugars, dark corn syrup can quickly add up in terms of calories.
8 Best Substitute for Dark Corn Syrup
#1 Light Corn Syrup
There are many corn syrups on the market, but the two most popular types are dark corn syrup and light corn syrup. Dark corn syrup is made from a combination of cornstarch and maltose, while light corn syrup is made from just cornstarch.
The most common use for dark corn syrup is in baking, where it helps to create a chewy texture. It’s also used as a sweetener in sauces and marinades. Light corn syrup has a milder flavor than dark corn syrup, so it’s more commonly used as a sweetener in drinks and candies.
If you’re looking for a substitute for dark corn syrup, light corn syrup is a good option. It has a similar consistency and sweetness, and it can be used in most recipes that call for dark corn syrup. Just make sure to reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe by ¼ cup for every 1 cup of light corn syrup used.
#2 Honey
Honey can be a substitute for dark corn syrup in some recipes. Honey is sweeter than molasses and has a unique flavor that goes well with certain baked goods, such as gingerbread. In general, honey contains more water than sugar so it is not suitable for candies or frostings where solid crystals are required to hold the shape of the cooked mixture.
While it does contain fructose, honey also contains glucose so it will not crystallize when stored, but becomes a thick syrup instead. This makes it unsuitable for most hard candy applications where a crystal structure is desirable for ease of cutting and shaping after cooling.
#3 Simple Syrup
If you don’t have dark corn syrup on hand, you can make a simple syrup instead. Simple syrup is made by combining sugar and water in a saucepan and cooking over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved. The resulting mixture is thick and syrupy. You can use simple syrup in place of dark corn syrup in most recipes. Just be sure to follow the recipe’s measurements accurately, since simple syrup is sweeter than dark corn syrup.
To make a simple syrup, combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar has dissolved, then remove from the heat. Store leftover simple syrup at room temperature for up to 3 weeks or in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.
#4 Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is a popular substitute for dark corn syrup because it has a similar flavor and can also be used as a topping for pancakes, waffles or bread. In addition to being high in nutrients, maple syrup contains antioxidants that help fight damage from free radicals which cause cancer and other diseases.
In addition to being high in antioxidants, maple syrup provides calcium, iron, potassium and Vitamins A, D and E. However, unlike corn syrup, because maple syrup still contains sugar it should not be considered a totally healthy alternative to dark corn syrup.
When selecting maple syrup, be sure to buy the pure stuff and not the “maple-flavored” variety which contains high fructose corn syrup and other artificial ingredients. The best way to ensure you’re getting the real thing is to buy from a reputable store or online dealer. Maple syrup is also available in different grades depending on how much processing it has undergone. The most processed (and expensive) variety is called “ultra-pure” maple syrup, while the least processed is called “grade B” or “raw” maple syrup.
#5 Stevia
In a time when people are focused on making the right food choices, stevia is becoming an increasingly popular choice. It is a natural sweetener made from a South American plant in the chrysanthemum family. Stevia has been used for hundreds of years in South America and is considered to be 10 times sweeter than regular sugar with no nasty aftertaste that some experience with other artificial sugars.
In addition, it does not contain any carbohydrates or contains calories which makes it beneficial for those suffering from diabetes and obesity. Studies have shown that stevia can actually help regulate blood sugar levels through its unique properties. With all these healthy qualities attributed to stevia, it is no wonder why it is being seen as a substitute for dark corn syrup.
When looking for stevia, be sure to purchase a quality product from a reputable company. The best way to ensure that you are getting the real deal is to buy organic stevia which has not been processed or refined. Otherwise, you may end up with an artificial sweetener that is loaded with unhealthy chemicals. Stevia is becoming more and more popular every day, so it’s easy to find at most grocery stores. Give it a try and see how you like it!
#6 Molasses
Molasses is a dark syrup which looks similar to corn syrup, but it has a bitter taste. Molasses is the by-product of the sugar refining process that comes directly from the milling of raw cane or sugar beet. The majority of molasses in North America is produced in Louisiana, Florida and Texas. More specifically, Louisiana molasses gives this type of syrup its distinct flavor because it carries notes of both bitterness and sweetness. Molasses also contains more minerals than regular sugar — calcium, copper, iron, magnesium potassium and vitamins B6 & B12 are all present in small quantities
The substitute for dark corn syrup can be made up of ingredients like honey, brown rice syrup, or molasses
Here is a recipe for those who want to make their own substitute:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup honey
- 1/2 cup molasses
Instructions:
- Combine honey and molasses in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook, stirring frequently, until mixture comes to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and let cool completely before using.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
#7 Brown Rice Syrup
Brown rice syrup is a natural sweetener made from cooked brown rice. The rice is combined with enzymes that break down the starch into glucose and maltose. These two sugars are then boiled down to form a thick syrup. Brown rice syrup is about 60-70% as sweet as sugar and has a mild, slightly malty flavor. It is also low on the glycemic index, meaning it does not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. This makes it a good choice for people with diabetes or other health concerns.
One of the main benefits of brown rice syrup is that it is made from whole grains. Unlike other sweeteners, such as high fructose corn syrup, brown rice syrup contains fiber and essential nutrients like B vitamins and minerals. It is also vegan and gluten-free.
Brown rice syrup is a good substitute for dark corn syrup in recipes. It can be used in place of sugar or honey, and can be substituted for up to half the amount of those ingredients. It is especially good in baked goods, where it helps to keep them moist and chewy. Brown rice syrup can also be used as a glaze or dip for fruits and vegetables.
When buying brown rice syrup, look for one that is organic and has a clear liquid with a mild, slightly malty flavor. Avoid products with excess crystallized consistency or any off-flavors. Brown rice syrup can be used in place of sugar or honey, and can be substituted for up to half the amount of those ingredients. It is especially good in baked goods, where it helps to keep them moist and chewy. Brown rice syrup can also be used as a glaze or dip for fruits and vegetables.
#8 Golden Syrup
Golden syrup is a type of syrup that is made from sugar cane. It has a light golden color and a distinctive flavor that is a blend of caramel and toffee. Golden syrup is often used as a substitute for dark corn syrup, as it has a similar flavor and texture. Golden syrup can be found in most grocery stores, and it is also available online.
Some benefits of using golden syrup instead of dark corn syrup include:
- It has a lower glycemic index than dark corn syrup, so it is a better choice for people who are watching their blood sugar levels.
- It is GMO-free, unlike some brands of dark corn syrup.
- It has a higher fructose content than dark corn syrup, which some people find to be more palatable.
- It is gluten-free.
If you are looking for a substitute for dark corn syrup that is GMO-free, gluten-free, and has a lower glycemic index, golden syrup is a good option. It can be used in baking or in recipes where a light caramel flavor is desired. Enjoy!
Conclusion
There are a number of different substitutes for dark corn syrup that can be used in recipes. Some of the most popular substitutes include honey, brown rice syrup, and molasses. Each of these substitutes has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to choose the one that best meets your needs. Golden syrup is also a good substitute for dark corn syrup, as it has a similar flavor and texture. Whatever substitute you decide to use, be sure to read the recipe carefully to make sure that the proportions are correct. Enjoy!
