Sweetener | Vegan

Corn Syrup

Zea mays Allergen-Free
corn syrup

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Poaceae
  • Primary Cuisine American, Global (industrial food)
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Corn starch

The Forktionary Angle

"The unsung hero of confectionery and baking, ensuring smooth textures and preventing crystallization in countless sweet treats."

Definition

A sweetener and thickener made from corn starch, used in foods to prevent sugar crystallization and add moisture.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet
TextureViscous, Thick, Sticky, Smooth
AromaNeutral, Mildly Sweet
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Hydrolysis Process

Produced by hydrolyzing corn starch into glucose, maltose, and other oligosaccharides.

Primary Function

Prevents sugar crystallization in candies and preserves moisture in baked goods.

Shelf Stability

Unopened, it can last indefinitely; opened, it retains quality for several years in a cool, dark pantry.

Nutrition Facts

Per 2 tbsp
Calories300 kcal
Total Fat0.0 g
Saturated Fat0.0 g
Trans Fat0.0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0.0 g
Total Carbohydrate79.0 g
Dietary Fiber0.0 g
Total Sugars75.0 g
Calcium0 mg
Iron0.0 mg
Potassium0 mg

Chef’s Secret

To easily measure sticky corn syrup, lightly coat the measuring cup or spoon with cooking spray beforehand.

Substitutions

Best Match

Honey

1:1

Similar viscosity and sweetness, adds distinct floral flavor, may brown faster.

Maple Syrup

1:1

Distinctive flavor, similar sweetness and viscosity, good for baking and glazes.

Agave Nectar

3/4:1

Sweeter than corn syrup, thinner consistency, neutral flavor. Use less and adjust liquids.

Golden Syrup

1:1

Common in British baking, similar texture, slightly different caramel notes.

Buying Guide

Choose between light and dark corn syrup. Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place.

Flavor Pairings

Candies baked goods sauces glazes pecan pie caramel.

Recipes Using Corn Syrup

Time To Make Greens Time To Make 15 Minutes Or Less

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A W Cream Soda

Relive childhood memories with this easy-to-make A&W Cream Soda recipe! Skip the store-bought stuff and create a refreshing, creamy soda at home. This recipe requires minimal cook time, but chilling is key for that perfect, icy-cold treat. Perfect for summer parties or a simple afternoon pick-me-up.

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Course Pork Main Dish Easy

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Number Of Servings Yeast Preparation For Large Groups

Authentic St Louis Gooey Butter Cake

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Healthy American Low Cholesterol 60 Minutes Or Less

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Occasion Main Ingredient American Snacks

Baked Caramel Corn Ii

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Comfort Food Comfort Food Time To Make European

Banana Bread Pudding

Indulge in this irresistible Banana Bread Pudding recipe! Perfectly spiced and brimming with caramelized bananas, this comforting dessert is unbelievably easy to make. A classic recipe elevated with a luscious, homemade vanilla sauce. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Preparation 4 Hours Or Less Main Ingredient Dietary

Banana Caramel Chocolate Chunk Cake

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Preparation Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Desserts

Best Pecan Pie Tarts

Get ready to experience the most incredible pecan pie tarts you'll ever taste! This easy-to-follow recipe, adapted from Abby's famous column, delivers melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Crisp, buttery crusts cradle a rich, nutty pecan filling – guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for holidays or any special occasion. Make a show-stopping pie or individual tarts – the choice is yours!

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