Glucose syrup, a sweet, thick liquid made from the hydrolysis of starch, is commonly used in confectionery, baking, and desserts. Here are some substitutes for glucose syrup across different categories:
Best: Corn Syrup
Corn syrup is the best substitute for glucose syrup as it shares a similar chemical composition and consistency. It’s a versatile sweetener with a mild flavour, making it suitable for candy making, baking, and glazes where glucose syrup is typically used.
How to Use
- Substitute corn syrup for glucose syrup in a 1:1 ratio.
- It works well in recipes that require a thick, sweet ingredient that doesn’t crystallize easily, like in candy making or icing.
Cheapest: Honey
Honey is a more affordable and readily available substitute. It’s sweeter and has a distinct flavour compared to glucose syrup, but can be used in many of the same applications, such as baking and glazes.
How to Use
- Use honey in slightly less quantity than glucose syrup as it is sweeter.
- Ideal for baked goods, sauces, and dressings.
- Keep in mind that honey can influence the flavour of the final product.
Tastiest: Maple Syrup
Maple syrup, with its unique and rich flavour, can be a delicious alternative to glucose syrup. It’s perfect for adding sweetness and a distinct maple taste to baked goods, pancakes, and desserts.
How to Use
- Use maple syrup in equal measure or slightly less than glucose syrup, depending on your sweetness preference.
- Suitable for breakfast items, desserts, and as a sweetener in beverages.
- Its flavour is more pronounced, so it’s best used in dishes where its taste can be appreciated.
Most Accessible: Golden Syrup
Golden syrup is widely accessible and works well as a substitute for glucose syrup. It has a similar consistency and sweet taste, though with a light, buttery flavour.
How to Use
- Substitute golden syrup for glucose syrup in a 1:1 ratio.
- Great for baking, candy making, and dessert toppings.
- It can add a light caramel flavour to recipes.
Most Unusual: Agave Syrup
Agave syrup offers an unusual but effective alternative. It’s sweeter than glucose syrup and has a thinner consistency, but can be used in similar applications, especially in vegan and health-conscious recipes.
How to Use
- Use agave syrup in a smaller quantity than glucose syrup due to its higher sweetness.
- Ideal for sweetening beverages, desserts, and as a syrup in breakfast dishes.
- Its mild flavour makes it versatile, though the texture is less viscous.