Molasses is the byproduct of sugar refining process that is commonly made from sugarcane. It’s a popular ingredient to make gingerbread and other desserts due to its distinctive, sweet, and somewhat bitter flavor.
However, outside of the southern United States, molasses is not much popular because of its bitterness. If you’re one of them, there are some molasses substitutes that you can use to make the dessert more palatable.
This article will introduce you with some amazing alternatives to molasses that are quite popular and widely available.
Molasses Substitutes
1. Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is one of the closest substitutes for molasses as both of them have a similar flavor profile.
This popular sweetener is usually made from the xylem sap of sugar maple, black maple, or red maple trees. [1]
Although a bit expensive, maple syrup is quite popular as it is less bitter. This versatile ingredient can be used in several recipes that call for molasses.
2. Honey
Honey is a natural liquid sweetener that you can find almost any grocery shop. It is incredibly nutritious and contains a significant amount of potassium, calcium, zinc, riboflavin, niacin, and antioxidants. [2]
Honey is quite similar to molasses in terms of consistency but milder in taste. Besides, it has the nutrients that molasses doesn’t have.
However, honey is derived from bees, meaning that it is not an acceptable substitute for the vegan.
3. Brown Sugar
Brown sugar is the refined version of molasses, which makes it an excellent alternative. It’s also a healthier option as it contains antioxidants. [3]
Due to the presence of molasses, brown sugar will bring a similar flavor in any dish that calls for it. You have to use 3/4 of brown sugar for every cup of molasses.
However, mix some water before using as the sugar can be a bit drying for the recipe.
4. Corn Syrup
If you want a cheaper substitute for molasses, corn syrup can be the best option for you.
It is made from the starch of corn in the exact way the molasses are. Their consistency and texture are almost the same; particularly the dark variety can easily mimic the taste of molasses in baked goods.
However, do not over consume corn syrup as its fat content may have adverse effects on your health. [4]
5. Yogurt
Yogurt may taste a bit different than molasses, but it has similar characteristics when used in baking.
Yogurt is extremely healthy as it contains protein and calcium. It’s low in fat, meaning that you can enjoy your dessert without gaining extra calories. [5]
You may need to add extra sugar as unsweetened yogurt will not bring the same taste like molasses.
6. Applesauce
Applesauce is a sauce made of apple and some other ingredients such as honey, sugar, cinnamon, etc. It’s one of the best options that can replicate the tanginess of molasses.
Applesauce if quite healthy as it has the goodness of apples. Besides, it’s easy to make. [6]
However, the complete dish will have the apple flavor in it. You can use it if you don’t have any problem with the result.
End Note
Knowing about suitable molasses substitutes can be necessary if you don’t like the bitterness of it. However, it’s alternatives are readily available and easy to use.
Always start with a small amount and gradually increase them to get a similar flavor. Even if you have molasses in your kitchen, you can use these substitutes to bring some uniqueness to your recipes.
