Substitute for Golden Syrup in Baking: Best Liquid Sweeteners
Golden syrup is a British staple that adds a distinctive buttery, caramel sweetness and moist, chewy texture to baked goods. It keeps cookies and cakes soft by retaining moisture and promotes golden browning.
Best Substitute
Corn Syrup
1 cup light corn syrup per 1 cup golden syrup
Light corn syrup has the same viscosity and moisture-retaining properties as golden syrup, producing equally soft, chewy baked goods. It is less sweet and lacks the buttery caramel flavor, so consider adding a pinch of vanilla.
Other Options
Honey
1 cup honey per 1 cup golden syrup
Adds a distinct floral sweetness. Honey browns faster than golden syrup, so reduce oven temperature by 25F. Works well in cakes and bars.
Brown Rice Syrup
1 cup brown rice syrup per 1 cup golden syrup
Less sweet than golden syrup with a mild, malty flavor. Produces chewy results similar to golden syrup. Good option for refined-sugar-free baking.
Maple Syrup
3/4 cup maple syrup per 1 cup golden syrup
Thinner than golden syrup, so use slightly less. Adds a distinctive maple flavor. Reduce other liquids in the recipe by 2-3 tablespoons to compensate for the difference in viscosity.
Sources & References
- Wikipedia: Golden syrup
history, production, and culinary uses of golden syrup in British baking
- USDA FoodData Central
sugar and calorie content of golden syrup and liquid sweetener alternatives
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I use instead of golden syrup in baking?
Light corn syrup is the best 1:1 substitute with the same viscosity and moisture retention. Honey works but browns faster (lower oven temp by 25F). Brown rice syrup provides a similar chewy texture with a milder sweetness.
Is golden syrup the same as corn syrup?
No. Golden syrup is made from sugarcane and has a buttery caramel flavor, while corn syrup is made from corn and has a neutral sweetness. They behave similarly in baking for moisture and texture, but the flavor profile is different.