The 5 Best Corn Syrup Substitutes, Great Swaps For All Types of Baking!
This post contains affiliate links for Corn Syrup Substitutes; I earn a small commission when you click on the links and make a purchase.
Have I mentioned that I love getting your emails! Nothing brightens my day more than getting your emails – it helps remind me why I spend 40+ hours a week working on this blog! … You, of course, my lovely readers!
I recently received this email request and figured it was the least I could do to round up a few ideas for healthier corn syrup substitutes!
You asked about something we want to healthify… Do you have a replacement for corn syrup so we can make these no-bake cookies with peanut butter and chocolate chips? Because other than the corn syrup, I think they are pretty healthy. Thanks. – Doug of Huntington Beach, CA
I’m on it, Doug!!
Here are the best healthier Corn Syrup Substitutes, so you don’t have to give up on your pecan pie dreams.
I am all for choosing natural sweeteners and healthy alternatives whenever possible. So the next time your recipe calls for corn syrup, use one of these corn syrup substitutes!
As a baker, I can see why substituting corn syrup can be a bit trickier – it’s not just the sugar we are replacing; it’s also the texture and the ability to prevent crystallization when making candies. But don’t fret; there are some excellent corn syrup substitutions to be had!
As a general rule, all of these substitutes are great options and can be substituted for in equal amounts in a 1:1 ratio. Each alternative will add a bit of a different flavor to your traditional Karo syrup, but all are good choices for a healthier option.
The BEST Corn Syrup Substitutes
#1 Agave Nectar: According to most bakers, this is your best choice; it has a mild flavor like corn syrup and a very similar sweetness level. It also remains liquid at room temperature, like corn syrup. It’s a great swap option for pies and sauces, but since their chemical compositions differ, this isn’t the choice if candy-making is your game. Agave Syrup can be substituted at a 1-1 ratio.
NOW Foods, Certified Organic Light Agave Nectar, Blue Agave, Certified Non-GMO, Low-Glycemic Sweetener, Kosher, 23.2-Ounce Rated 4.6 out of 5 by 2,742 reviewers on Amazon.com
#2 Brown Rice Syrup: Brown rice syrup is a great substitute for candy recipes because it prevents sugar crystals or sugar crystallization and does well with high temperatures. It has a consistency similar to corn syrup but a nuttier, distinct flavor, almost like cooked brown rice. So with the flavor profile known, it might not be the best fit for some dishes. Brown Rice Syrup can be used in place of corn syrup at a 1-1 ratio.
Raw seed Key Stone Pantry Organic Brown Rice Syrup 1 Pack 16 oz. Rated 4.5 out of 5 by 505 reviewers on Amazon.com.
#3 Honey – Honey is my personal favorite for sweet treats and a good option to consider. Check out my Kid-Friendly Brown Rice Crispy Treats! I love the flavor of honey and use it whenever I can for its added health benefits. That said, it doesn’t prevent crystallization and corn syrup, so it’s not an excellent choice for candy makers. If you want a mild honey flavor, stick with a clover or acacia variety. It also loses some of its sweetness when baking with honey, so I would stick to using it for non-baked recipes. Honey can be substituted for 1 cup of honey with 1 Cup of regular corn syrup.
Nature Nate’s 100% Pure, Raw & Unfiltered Honey; 32oz. Squeeze Bottle; Award-Winning Taste Rated 4.7 out of 5 by 57,128 reviewers on Amazon.com
#4 Cane Syrup – This is a Britain pantry staple and has a very similar flavor profile to corn syrup and similar chemical makeup, making it an excellent substitute for candy makers! Since it is also known to prevent crystallization. It is made from pure cane sugar and has no added preservatives, artificial colors, or flavors. Cane Syrup can be substituted at a 1-1 ratio.
Lyles Golden Syrup – Original 325ml Rated 4.8 out of 5 by 1410 reviewers on Amazon.com
#5 Pure Maple Syrup – Your favorite pancake syrup can be used as an equal replacement with similar sweetness and consistency. Maple syrup can be a good substitute; it holds up well when baking and has a rich, buttery flavor. It also has the added benefit of being rich in nutritional goodies, including potassium and calcium. Maple syrup is also rich in niacin, B6, and riboflavin. Maple syrup helps boost your immune system. Maple Syrup can be substituted at a 1-1 ratio.
NOW Foods Organic Maple Syrup, Grade A Dark Color, 32-Ounce Rated 4.5 out of 5 by 3,225 reviewers on Amazon.com
There you have it: five fantastic healthier substitutes for high-fructose corn syrup! Whether you agree or disagree with the criticism of corn syrup, it’s a significant component in many processed goods. With several negative health concerns, corn syrup should be avoided if possible! Please use caution and opt for one of these healthier options!
These Corn Syrup Substitutes are becoming a more common ingredient, and you should have no trouble finding these items at your local grocery store. But I have included links to where you can find them on Amazon!
Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions! I would love to help you in any way I can! – Thanks for reaching out, Doug. Glad I could help!
Happy Baking!
