Are you in search of a brown rice syrup substitute for your recipes? Also known as rice malt syrup, this natural sweetener is made from fermented brown rice and imparts a subtle, mellow sweetness. If you're out or looking for a rice malt syrup substitute, this article will guide you through various options that can easily take its place. Discover what you can use instead of rice malt syrup to keep your cooking and baking endeavors on track.

Jump to:
🌾 Grain Highlights
- Brown Rice Syrup, often referred to as rice malt syrup, is a natural sweetener that is a staple in many kitchens due to its subtle, buttery sweetness. It's derived from fermented brown rice and can be a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.
- I've uncovered the best alternatives to brown rice syrup, including maple syrup and honey, to introduce new dimensions to your recipes. In this article, I provide a detailed list of substitutes, along with tips on how to effectively use them in your cooking.
- Whether you're vegan, watching your sugar intake, or simply out of brown rice syrup, I'll share insights into how substitutes might alter your dish's flavor and texture. I'll guide you through exploring healthier options to find the perfect match for your dietary preferences.
📜 10 Best Brown Rice Syrup Substitutes
Here's my expert guide on swapping sweeteners without losing any flavor.
1. Maple Syrup
Maple syrup, with its rich, caramel-like flavor, is a popular substitute for brown rice syrup. It adds a delightful sweetness to recipes and works well in both sweet and savory dishes.
Plus, its thin consistency makes it easy to pour and measure, making it a convenient choice for baking and cooking.

2. Honey
Honey is another excellent rice malt syrup substitute, offering a natural sweetness and distinct floral notes. It's versatile and can be used in a wide range of recipes, from desserts to marinades.
Just be mindful of its intense flavor, which can sometimes overpower other ingredients if used in large quantities.

3. Agave Nectar
Agave nectar, derived from the agave plant, is prized for its mild flavor and smooth texture. It's sweeter than honey and maple syrup, so you can use less of it to achieve the same level of sweetness in your recipes.
Additionally, agave nectar has a low glycemic index, making it a popular choice for those watching their blood sugar levels.

4. Date syrup
Date syrup, made from dates, offers a unique flavor profile that's both sweet and slightly tangy. It's thicker than maple syrup or honey, which makes it ideal for adding depth to sauces, dressings, and desserts.
Additonally, dates are packed with nutrients, making date syrup a healthier alternative to rice malt syrup.
5. Molasses
Molasses, known for its robust flavor and dark color, is a more intense substitute for rice malt syrup. It's made from sugar cane or sugar beets and is often used in baking to add richness and depth to dishes like gingerbread cookies and barbecue sauce.
Keep in mind that molasses has a distinct taste that may not appeal to everyone, so use it sparingly and adjust the sweetness level accordingly.

6. Barley Malt Syrup
Barley malt syrup, made from malted barley grains, offers a unique malty flavor profile that's perfect for adding depth to baked goods and sauces. It's less sweet than brown rice syrup, so you may need to adjust the amount used in your recipes accordingly.
Remember that barley malt syrup can be quite thick and sticky, so it's best to warm it slightly before measuring and pouring.
7. Corn Syrup
Corn syrup, derived from corn starch, is a common sweetener used in a variety of recipes, from candies to pies. It's known for its neutral flavor and ability to prevent crystallization in sugary treats, making it a staple in many kitchens.
However, it's essential to note that while corn syrup is primarily composed of glucose, it doesn't contain significant amounts of fructose.
Corn syrup itself is not high in fructose, but high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a separate product that results from enzymatic processing to convert some of the glucose in corn syrup into fructose. This distinction is important, as HFCS has a higher fructose content and is often used as a sweetener in various processed foods.

8. Glucose Syrup
Glucose syrup, also known as corn syrup solids, is a concentrated form of glucose derived from corn starch. It's often used in baking and candy making to improve texture and prevent crystallization.
While it's not as sweet as some other substitutes, glucose syrup adds moisture and chewiness to baked goods, making it a valuable ingredient in certain recipes.
9. Golden Syrup
Golden syrup, a popular sweetener in British cuisine, is made from sugar cane or sugar beets. It has a distinct golden color and a rich, buttery flavor that adds depth to desserts and baked goods.
Golden syrup is less viscous than brown rice syrup, making it easier to pour and measure, but it's important to note that it's high in sucrose and should be used in moderation.
10. Stevia
Stevia, a natural sweetener derived from the stevia plant, is an excellent alternative to brown rice syrup for those looking to reduce their sugar intake. It's much sweeter than sugar, so you'll need to use much less of it in your recipes.
Stevia, a calorie-free sweetener, is favored by those on low-carb or diabetic-friendly diets. However, some may find its slight bitterness off-putting. Experimenting with various brands and forms (like liquid or powdered) can help you find your perfect match.
🙋♀️ People Also Ask [FAQs]
As a vegan, you can use agave nectar, maple syrup, or even date syrup as a substitute for brown rice syrup. They are all plant-based and will add a unique flavor to your recipes.
Depending on the substitute you choose, it might. For example, honey is thicker than brown rice syrup, so it could make your dish a bit denser. But in most cases, the change in texture will be minimal.
Each substitute has its own nutritional profile. Honey, for example, contains more antioxidants than brown rice syrup. Agave nectar has a low glycemic index, which makes it a better option for those watching their sugar intake. It's best to choose the substitute that aligns with your dietary needs and preferences.
Leave a Comment