substitute for light corn syrup
Sarah Parker
Updated on July 25, 2026
To replace one cup of light corn syrup, use:
1 cup maple syrup or pancake syrup. 1 cup granulated sugar + 1/4 cup hot water. 1 cup golden syrup (light treacle) or glucose sugar (confectioner’s glucose) 1 cup agave syrup.
What is the best substitute for corn syrup?
5 Healthier Substitutes for Corn Syrup
Maple syrup. Derived from the sap of the maple tree, maple syrup is a natural sweetener known for its distinct taste and aroma. Honey. Honey is a popular sweetener that has been lauded for its health benefits. Stevia. Golden syrup. Molasses.
Can I use honey instead of light corn syrup?
Honey won’t prevent crystallization as well as corn syrup so it’s not the best choice if you’re making candy, but it’s a great for other uses.
Can I substitute dark corn syrup for light corn syrup?
Yes. Karo light and dark corn syrups perform similarly in recipes and can usually be used interchangeably. Recipes usually specify which type to use but the choice may be guided by personal preference. Typically, light corn syrup is used when a delicately sweet flavor is desired, such as in fruit sauces and jams.
Can I replace corn syrup with maple syrup?
The classic pancake topper should not be used as a swap in candy-making recipes, but you can use maple syrup as a corn syrup sub in baked goods. Just keep in mind that maple syrup has a distinct flavor—and depending on how much you use, you may taste it in your dessert (not necessarily a bad thing!).
What is the difference between light corn syrup and regular corn syrup?
Light corn syrup has a mild, sweet flavor and is absolutely colorless. Dark corn syrup gets its brown color from the inclusion of molasses, which also adds a richer flavor. Light and dark corn syrup can be used interchangeably in almost every instance, with slight flavor variances.
How do you make corn syrup at home?
Instructions
In a heavy bottomed saucepan, over medium heat, add the sugar, water, cream of tartar, salt and lemon juice.Once the sugar dissolves, turn down the heat and let the syrup simmer steadily until it reduces significantly and becomes a thick syrup that drips off your spatula slowly.
Can I substitute brown sugar for corn syrup?
For each cup of light corn syrup in a recipe, substitute 1 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup water. For each cup of dark corn syrup, substitute 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/4 cup water.
Can I substitute corn syrup for cornstarch?
Can you use corn syrup instead of starch? Corn syrup can be used in place of cornstarch to thicken some types of sweet food, such as hard candy, fudge, and cake frosting. It is a sweetener that’s used to soften the texture of food, add volume and enhance flavor, in addition to other uses.
What can I use instead of corn syrup in Australia?
One of the best replacements for corn syrup is glucose syrup which adds moisture and sweetness in much the same way corn syrup does. Queen Glucose Syrup (available from Coles and Woolworths RRP $4.50 for 500g) is derived from corn and is perfect for making toffee, caramel, marshmallows and jellies.
Is white corn syrup the same as light?
Moderately sweet in flavor, light corn syrup appears to be clear and colorless. It can also be called the “white” corn syrup. In the case of corn syrups, “light” refers to the shade of its color, but it is often confused by people to be “lite” or any other misspelling meaning reduced calories which is wrong.
What is light corn syrup used for?
Corn syrup is sold commercially as either light or dark corn syrup. Light corn syrup has been clarified and decolorized; it is used in baked goods, jams and jellies, and many other food products. Because it does not crystallize when heated, it is particularly valued as an ingredient in candies.
Which is sweeter dark or light corn syrup?
You can use dark and light corn syrup interchangeably. Just be aware that dark corn syrup is sweeter and has a more robust flavor than light corn syrup, which may affect the taste of your food.
Is molasses and dark corn syrup the same?
Dark Corn Syrup
Like molasses, dark corn syrup is a liquid sweetener with a sultry color. Unlike molasses, it has a less complex flavor and more neutral sweetness. Estimate a 1:1 substitute or opt for half–dark corn syrup, half–something more flavorful, like honey or brown sugar (more on that below).
Can I use golden syrup instead of corn syrup?
Epicurious notes that golden syrup can be used as a one-to-one substitution for corn syrup, including in candy-making. You might notice a slight flavor difference if you reach for golden syrup to replace corn syrup, but it shouldn’t change the texture of the recipe.
Can I use molasses instead of corn syrup?
Corn syrup offers very little flavor of its own other than a cloying sweetness when consumed alone. Molasses, on the other hand, offers a rich — and in some cases almost bitter — flavor in addition to its intense sweetness. Despite this difference, you can substitute corn syrup for molasses in your recipes.
Is there a substitute for corn syrup in pecan pie?
For a nutty or earthy flavor, consider substituting maple syrup or brown rice syrup instead of corn syrup. If you want something sweeter, try out the agave nectar or cane syrup.