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6 Substitutes for Golden Syrup You’ll Want to Try

Golden syrup is that sticky, sweet magic that makes desserts shine. But sometimes, we check the cabinet and—ugh—it’s nowhere to be found. No sweat, we’ve got substitutes that work just as well, maybe even better in some recipes.

We’ve been in the middle of baking and had to get creative. Once, we used honey instead, and honestly? The cookies turned out just as good. Other times, simple maple syrup or corn syrup saved the day without missing a beat.

If you’re like us and prefer using ingredients you already have, these swaps are lifesavers. They’re easy, tasty, and perfect for all types of dishes. Stick around, and we’ll show you how to make golden syrup shortages a total non-issue.

6 Easy Substitutes for Golden Syrup

Here are six alternatives to golden syrup that will give your recipes the same delicious results!

1 – Honey

What if I told you that honey is the easiest swap for golden syrup? It’s sweet, sticky, and blends effortlessly into recipes. Use the same amount as golden syrup—1:1 ratio.

Honey adds a slight floral note to baked goods. It also helps keep them moist. For savory dishes, it works in glazes and marinades too.

It’s widely available and shelf-stable, so you likely already have it. Just remember, a stronger honey might change the flavor slightly.

Want to see more options? Check out this guide on best honey substitutes for extra inspiration.

2 – Light Corn Syrup

If you’ve ever been stuck without golden syrup, light corn syrup is a solid stand-in. It’s sweet, neutral, and works in almost any recipe. Use it 1:1 to replace golden syrup. No adjustments needed.

It’s thicker than golden syrup, so it holds its own in dishes like pecan pie or caramel glaze. It doesn’t add extra flavor, which keeps the recipe balanced.

Light corn syrup is everywhere and cheap. It doesn’t crystallize like sugar, making it great for candies. Expect a clean, smooth texture.

Need more ideas for corn syrup alternatives? Check out this list of light corn syrup substitutes to cover all your bases.

3 – Maple Syrup

For an all-natural substitute that wows, maple syrup is the answer. Not only does it add a lovely flavor to recipes, but it can also replace golden syrup 1:1.

Maple syrup has a strong taste compared to other substitutes, so use it in dishes where you want those flavors present. It’s perfect for glazes and sauces that need a touch of sweetness.

When using maple syrup as a sub for golden syrup, remember its thinner consistency might change the texture slightly. Want more ideas on how to use maple syrup? Check out our maple syrup substitutes guide for tips and

4 – Brown Rice Syrup

It all started when we ran out of golden syrup mid-bake. Brown rice syrup to the rescue. It’s thicker than honey and has a mild, slightly nutty flavor. This makes it awesome for granola bars and energy bites.

Use it as a 1:1 substitute for golden syrup. Its stickiness holds everything together nicely. Brown rice syrup is less sweet, so expect a more subtle taste in your recipes.

It works best in baked goods, sauces, and chewy snacks. Avoid it if you need a strong flavor kick. Want more ideas for alternatives? Check out our brown rice syrup substitutes guide for more options.

5 – Agave Nectar

The flavor of agave nectar is light and neutral, making it perfect for dishes where you don’t want sweetness to overpower other flavors. Use it 1:1 to replace golden syrup.

Agave is thinner than golden syrup, so use caution when using it in recipes that rely on structure. It’s great in smoothies, sauces, and cocktails.

If you enjoy using agave as a substitute and want more ideas on how to incorporate it into your cooking, check out our agave substitutes guide for tips and recipe inspiration.

6 – Molasses (Light or Mild)

Last but not least, molasses is a solid swap for golden syrup. It’s thick and sweet, just like golden syrup. Plus it brings a slightly caramelized flavor to recipes.

In most cases, you can use light or mild molasses 1:1 in place of golden syrup. Dark molasses might overpower flavors—so keep that in mind before using it as a substitute.

Molasses works best in baked goods and sauces calling for golden syrup. Get more ideas on how to incorporate molasses into your cooking with our molasses substitutes guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can honey replace golden syrup in baking?

Yes, honey can replace golden syrup in most recipes, though it adds a stronger flavor and slightly different texture.

Is light corn syrup a good alternative to golden syrup?

Light corn syrup is a great substitute, offering a similar sweetness and viscosity without altering the taste too much.

Can maple syrup be used instead of golden syrup?

Maple syrup is a good substitute, though it brings a distinct flavor that’s different from the mild taste of golden syrup.

How does brown rice syrup compare to golden syrup in recipes?

Brown rice syrup has a more earthy flavor, but it works well as a substitute for golden syrup, especially in vegan recipes.

Is agave nectar a suitable replacement for golden syrup?

Yes, agave nectar is a great alternative with a similar sweetness and consistency, though it may be slightly thinner.

Can I use molasses as a substitute for golden syrup?

Molasses can work, but its rich, deep flavor may alter the taste of your dish, so use it in moderation or mix it with a lighter syrup.

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