Stumbled across a recipe that calls for corn syrup and no clue what it is? Join the club, it’s what inspired me to write this extremely comprehensive overview. So what really is corn syrup? You’re about to find out.
What is corn syrup?
Corn syrup is actually a US term but in Australia, you can find it labelled as glucose syrup in the baking section of your supermarket. Corn syrup is made from the starch of corn and is 100% glucose. It is a popular ingredient in goods as it helps prevent crystallisation and softens the texture of the food. In Australia, it is often used in lollies, ice cream, jam and event Asian sauces.
Technically speaking there are two varieties of corn syrup. High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and corn syrup a very different things, HFCS is made by converting the glucose in corn syrup into fructose, which creates a sweeter liquid. At one point HFCS was labelled as a culprit in expanding Australians waistlines, further research has concluded that this wasn’t the case but it has been banned in the UK.
Nutritional Information
Nutritionally speaking, corn syrup is a discretionary food and should only be consumed in small portions. It is made up of 28% sugar and is gluten-free. Technically speaking as corn syrup is suitable for vegans and vegetarians but double-check the ingredients list to make sure nothing funky has been added. There are approximately 323 calories in 100g of glucose syrup. Corn syrup is often listed on food labels as corn syrup or glucose syrup. HFCS, on the other hand, may be listed as galactofructose, isoglucose and glucose-fructose syrup.
Where to get corn syrup?
You can find corn syrup labelled as glucose syrup in the baking aisle of your local Woolworths and Coles.
Corn syrup alternatives
If you don’t have corn syrup there are a couple of ingredients that you can replace it with.
If you’re out of corn syrup you can swap in equal amounts of honey. It will alter the taste slightly to be more sweet and brown quicker than usual but is the most similar swap. Hey presto!
2. Maple syrup
If you’re looking for a substitute for dark corn syrup, maple syrup is a great choice. It will add extra sweetness, just swap it in part for part.
3. Make your own
For a cheaper and easier alternative make your own corn syrup substitute. Combine 2 cups of sugar, ¾ cup water, ¼ tsp of cream of tartar and a dash of salt in a large pan and bring to the boil. Stir and reduce the heat to a simmer and cover for 3 minutes. Cool the syrup and store in a cool dark airtight container for up to two months.