Molasses

N/A (Byproduct of sugar refining) Sweetener/Syrup

Molasses Sweetener/Syrup

At a Glance

  • Category Sweetener/Syrup

The Forktionary Angle

"The unsung hero of gingerbread and BBQ sauces, providing not just sweetness but also unique depth, color, and trace minerals."

Definition

A viscous syrup produced during the refining of sugar cane or sugar beets, known for its dark color, robust flavor, and nutritional content.

Common Varieties Light, Dark, Blackstrap, and Sulphured/Unsulphured.
Nutritional Value (Blackstrap) Rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
Storage Stability Indefinite shelf life if stored in a cool, dark place once opened, though quality may slowly degrade.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Molasses are:

Dark caramel smoky slightly bitter (blackstrap) rich earthy sweet

Chef’s Secret

Brush a thin layer of molasses onto the crust of homemade bread before baking for a rich, dark color and subtle sweetness.

Best Substitutes

1:1 dark corn syrup

1:1 maple syrup

for color/flavor, not nutrition

1:1 honey

sweeter

Buying Guide

Look for unsulphured molasses for a cleaner taste. Blackstrap is most nutrient-dense but strongest in flavor.

Recipes Using Molasses

North American Meat Independence Day Pork Ribs

Best Baby Back Ribs In Town

Craving melt-in-your-mouth, sweet and hickory-smoked baby back ribs? Damon's Restaurant may be gone, but their legendary ribs are back! This recipe recreates the unforgettable flavor that had everyone hooked. Tender, juicy, and bursting with smoky sweetness, these ribs are a family favorite and well worth the time. The easy-to-follow instructions and make-ahead sauce (from my treasured "True Southern Family Recipes" cookbook) make this a surprisingly manageable project. Prepare to be amazed!

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Course Side Dishes Vegetables Comfort Food

Barbecue Beans With Ground Beef And Bacon

Fall-off-the-bone tender ground beef and smoky bacon mingle with hearty beans in this irresistible barbecue bean recipe! A perfect comfort food for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing side dish for your next barbecue. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Poultry Free Of Something Meat Lactose

Barbecued Bat Wings

Experience a flavor explosion with these intensely delicious barbecued 'bat wings'! Our unique, darkly-colored BBQ sauce, packed with sweet and spicy notes, coats tender chicken wings to perfection. Don't let the ominous hue fool you – this recipe is surprisingly easy and delivers unforgettable taste! Perfect for game day, parties, or a fun weeknight meal.

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60 Minutes Or Less Dietary Healthy Time To Make

Big Batch Bran Muffins

This incredibly versatile recipe makes a HUGE batch of delicious bran muffins, perfect for busy mornings! Use oat bran for a twist, bake fresh muffins in your toaster oven, or freeze for up to a month. Customize with applesauce for a healthier option. Get ready for the most convenient and adaptable bran muffin recipe you'll ever find!

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American One Dish Meal Time To Make Taste Mood

Barbecued Bourbon Shrimp With Cheddar Cheese Grits

Indulge in this Southern fusion masterpiece! Amber Huffman's award-winning recipe combines succulent grilled shrimp, bathed in a tangy bourbon barbecue sauce, atop creamy cheddar cheese grits. This recipe, a favorite of Jesse Jackson, is a flavor explosion that's sure to impress. The rich grits are perfectly complemented by the sweet and smoky shrimp, creating a dish so delicious, it's garnered multiple marriage proposals (though Amber hasn't said 'yes' yet!). Pair this unforgettable meal with a light-bodied Pinot Noir, like a Kendall-Jackson, for the ultimate culinary experience.

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Number Of Servings Course Cakes Small Appliance

5 Minute Spice Cake In Microwave

Craving a decadent spice cake but short on time? This 5-minute microwave mug cake is the perfect solution! Inspired by a classic recipe, this version is perfectly sized for two, delivering moist, spiced cake in minutes. We've perfected the baking soda and powder ratio for a perfectly domed cake, avoiding that bizarre ceiling-hugging effect! Get ready for a warm, comforting treat that's ready faster than your coffee brews.

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30 Minutes Or Less European Time To Make Cuisine

Aquavit's Gingersnap Cookies

Indulge in the warm, spicy aroma of these exquisite Aquavit-Spiced Gingersnaps! These chewy, melt-in-your-mouth cookies boast a unique flavor profile thanks to the addition of aquavit (a Scandinavian spirit – feel free to substitute with vodka or rum). The recipe features candied orange peel for a delightful burst of citrus, perfectly complementing the warm ginger and spices. Easy to make and even easier to devour, these cookies are perfect for holiday baking or any time you crave a sophisticated treat. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Breakfast Breads Main Ingredient Occasion

Baked Cereal Squares Gluten Free

Craving a healthy, high-fiber cereal that won't break the bank? This gluten-free baked cereal is the answer! Inspired by a classic recipe, these squares are wonderfully satisfying, similar to popular brands like All-Bran or Fiber One, but without the hefty price tag. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this recipe is perfect for celiacs and anyone looking for a delicious, budget-friendly breakfast option. Get ready to enjoy a crunchy, wholesome treat that will keep you full and energized all morning long! (Note: Recipe is continually refined for optimal taste and texture.)

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Low Protein Apples Easy Main Ingredient

Apple Butter Ain T B's Recipe

Discover the secret to unbelievably delicious apple butter! This tried-and-true recipe, perfected over years at my bakery/café, yields a rich, smooth, and intensely flavorful spread that your customers (and you!) will crave. Get ready for rave reviews with this easy-to-follow guide to homemade apple butter perfection. Skip the store-bought stuff and make this incredible recipe today!

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Course Cuisine Preparation Main Ingredient

Barley And Sesame Chicken Stir Fry

This quick and easy 20-minute Barley and Sesame Chicken Stir-Fry recipe from Lorna Sass's "Whole Grains Every Day, Every Way" is packed with flavor and healthy ingredients. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe uses leftover cooked barley (or your favorite grain!) and pre-sliced chicken for ultimate convenience. The savory sesame sauce, crunchy vegetables, and tender chicken create a delicious and satisfying stir-fry that's sure to become a family favorite. Pair it with a crisp Chenin Blanc for the ultimate culinary experience!

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Dietary Time To Make Number Of Servings Heirloom Historical

Baked Beans Traditional Style

Experience the rich, smoky flavor of homemade baked beans! This traditional recipe, passed down through generations, will show you the incredible difference between homemade and canned. Slow-cooked to perfection, these beans are tender, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Perfect for a cozy weekend meal or a potluck hit!

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Inexpensive Breads Kid Friendly Potluck

Bahamas Bread

Escape to the islands with this heavenly Bahamian bread recipe! Slightly sweet and incredibly delicious, this easy-to-follow recipe delivers a taste of paradise right to your kitchen. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon treat, this bread is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of the Bahamas!

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Time To Make Number Of Servings 4 Hours Or Less Time To Make

3 Way Bbq Baked Beans Oamc

Elevate your BBQ game with this incredibly versatile 3-Way BBQ Baked Beans recipe! Perfect for meal prepping and freezer-friendly, this recipe lets you customize your bean blend (use any 3 types!). After mixing, choose your cooking method: freezer storage for future meals, slow-cooking in a crockpot for ultimate tenderness, or classic oven baking for a delicious crust. Adapted from a beyond-macaroni-and-cheese favorite, this recipe is a must-try for busy families and BBQ enthusiasts alike. Get ready for the most flavorful baked beans you've ever tasted!

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Pacific Northwest Cuisine Comfort Food American

Alaskan Sourdough Blueberry Gingerbread

Warm up your kitchen with this irresistible Alaskan Sourdough Blueberry Gingerbread! Inspired by julesong's recipe #7020, this twist features the bright burst of fresh Alaskan blueberries, creating a unique and unforgettable gingerbread experience. Get ready for a comforting treat with the perfect balance of tangy sourdough, spicy ginger, and juicy blueberries. Perfect for a cozy evening or festive gathering!

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Free Of Something Time To Make Easy 15 Minutes Or Less

Almond Butter Frosting

Indulge in the nutty deliciousness of this Almond Butter Frosting! A healthier twist on classic peanut butter frosting, this creamy, dreamy spread is unbelievably easy to make. Perfect for topping cakes, cupcakes, or simply enjoying on toast (trust us, it's amazing!). This recipe uses simple ingredients and delivers a rich almond flavor that will leave you wanting more.

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Time To Make Taste Mood Preparation 4 Hours Or Less

Asian Inspired Meatballs

Delectable Asian-inspired meatballs, a flavorful twist on a classic! This recipe, a hit with families, makes perfect appetizers or a satisfying main course. Enjoy tender, juicy meatballs in a sweet and savory Asian-infused sauce, served alongside fluffy rice and vibrant steamed Asian vegetables. A quick and easy weeknight meal or impressive party dish!

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Preparation American Holiday Event Course

Baked Beans Crock Pot

Fall-off-the-bone tender, unbelievably flavorful baked beans, perfected in your slow cooker! These aren't your grandma's baked beans – they're elevated with a touch of maple sweetness and smoky bacon. Soak the beans overnight for ultimate tenderness. Prepare to be amazed!

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High Protein Main Ingredient Occasion Low Carb

Asian Mint Pork Tenderloin

Experience a flavor explosion with this incredible Asian Mint Pork Tenderloin recipe! Perfectly grilled to juicy perfection, this recipe is a must-try for your next barbecue. Marinate for 8 hours to unlock incredible flavor, then grill to tender perfection. Get ready for rave reviews!

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