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Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of honey?

Maple syrup, Agave nectar and Date syrup are the easiest swaps. Below: 6 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

Honey on the left, maple syrup on the right

The quick answer

Maple syrup. Use the same amount. Vegan. Same consistency.

Adjust: Direct swap.

  1. Maple syrup

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Vegan. Same consistency.

    Flavor
    Maple vs floral.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Direct swap.
    Best for
    Any recipe

    vegan

  2. Agave nectar

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Sweeter. Runnier.

    Flavor
    Neutral.
    Texture
    Thinner.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Direct swap.
    Best for
    Beverages, Salad dressings

    vegan

  3. Date syrup

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Whole food. Richer.

    Flavor
    Deep caramel.
    Texture
    Thicker than honey.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Warm to thin before using.
    Best for
    Baking, Dressings

    vegan

  4. Corn syrup

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Neutral. No flavor.

    Flavor
    Neutral.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Use light corn syrup only (dark has flavor).
    Best for
    Candy, Frosting, Preventing crystallization

  5. Golden syrup

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    British staple. Butter-like caramel.

    Flavor
    Butterscotch.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Direct swap.
    Best for
    Tarts, Treacle pudding

  6. Brown rice syrup

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Less sweet. Stickier.

    Flavor
    Mild.
    Texture
    Very thick.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Warm to loosen. Less sweet — adjust expectations.
    Best for
    Granola bars, Rice treats

    vegan

Common questions

What is the best substitute for honey?

Maple syrup is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Vegan. Same consistency.

What is a vegan substitute for honey?

Good vegan options are Maple syrup, Agave nectar, Date syrup and Brown rice syrup.

How much should I use instead of honey?

It depends on the swap. Maple syrup: Use the same amount. Agave nectar: Use the same amount. Date syrup: Use the same amount.

Recipes that use honey

Scale it to your recipe

Enter the amount you need and the substitution tool works out the exact quantity. Or ask the chef how the swap will change your dish.

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