If you ever find yourself without honey while cooking or baking, this article offers a fantastic solution. It provides a comprehensive list of 15 honey substitutes, each categorized by culinary use. Whether you're making baked goods, marinades, salad dressings, or herbal teas, you'll find suitable alternatives and tips on how to use them effectively. Plus, a recipe to create your own easy DIY substitute at home.

Jump to:
- 🥜 In a Nutshell
- 🍯 What is Honey?
- ⛔ What To Do When You Are Out Of Honey?
- 📜 Homemade Honey Substitute [Infographic]
- 🔄 List of 15 Best Honey Substitutes to Try
- 🥧 Honey Substitute for Baking
- 1. Maple Syrup
- 2. Agave Nectar
- 3. Brown Rice Syrup or Barley Malt Syrup
- 4. Date Syrup
- 🥓 Honey Alternative for Marinades
- 5. Blackstrap Molasses
- 6. Pomegranate Molasses
- 7. Coconut Nectar or Syrup
- 🥗 Honey Replacement in Salad Dressings
- 8. Apple Cider Vinegar and Maple Dijon Dressing
- 9. Rice Vinegar and Jaggery
- 10. Lemon Juice and Dandelion Syrup
- 11. Lime juice and Golden Syrup
- ☕ Honey Substitute for Herbal Teas:
- 12. Liquid Stevia
- 13. Ginger Syrup
- 14. Lavender Syrup
- 15. Corn Syrup
- People also ask [FAQs]
- 🔑 Key Takeaways: Substitutes for Honey
- 🍽️ Recipe
🥜 In a Nutshell
- Honey, often known as nature's sweet nectar, is a wonderfully sugary liquid made by bees from flower nectar. It can have different flavors depending on the flowers the bees visit. Beyond sweetening your tea, you can use it in various ways in the kitchen.
- I've spent a lot of time experimenting and have found some good alternatives to honey. You can make your own substitute using sugar, apple juice, and a bit of citrus. This DIY recipe is handy for cooking and baking, and you can find the detailed instructions in this article.
- Also, you can explore a variety of other honey substitutes like maple syrup, agave nectar, brown rice syrup, date syrup, blackstrap molasses, pomegranate molasses, and more. Each one has suggestions for different cooking needs, like baking, marinades, salad dressings, and herbal teas.
🍯 What is Honey?
Honey, often referred to as nature's sweet nectar, is a lusciously sweet and viscous liquid produced by bees. It's a remarkable creation resulting from the meticulous work of these industrious insects.
Bees collect nectar from flowers to make honey. Through a process that involves breaking down complex sugars into simpler ones and then dehydrating them, bees store this liquid gold in their honeycombs.
Honey has a unique flavor profile, depending on the floral sources. Some common types include clover, acacia, and wildflower honey. Its use extends beyond sweetening tea or coffee. Honey can be used in marinades, dressings, baked goods, and as a topping on yogurt or oatmeal.
⛔ What To Do When You Are Out Of Honey?
If you're cooking and find yourself without honey. No worries – you can whip up a fantastic honey substitute right in your own kitchen.
Just gather sugar, apple juice, and some lime or lemon juice. The best part? I've got a handy recipe card with all the details so you can make your own delicious honey alternative at home. Plus, a simple infographic shows you the ingredients and the easy steps to follow.
🔔 Be sure to check out the recipe card for all the ingredients and instructions you'll need to make this dish. Don't miss out on any of the details!
📜 Homemade Honey Substitute [Infographic]

🔄 List of 15 Best Honey Substitutes to Try
Besides the fantastic DIY recipe to make your honey alternative at home, a whole world of honey substitutes is waiting to be explored. Based on my personal experience, I've categorized 15 other substitutes that can step in depending on your specific culinary needs.
🥧 Honey Substitute for Baking
1. Maple Syrup
If you're looking for an alternative that offers natural sweetness with a hint of maple flavor, then maple syrup is an excellent option. It adds depth to recipes like muffins and cookies.
However, remember to increase the quantity of sugar slightly, as maple syrup tends to be less sweet than honey. On the other hand, maple syrup has a strong maple flavor that you may want to consider.

2. Agave Nectar
Agave nectar is a versatile sweetener that is 1.5 times sweeter than regular sugar. It has a lower glycemic index than honey, making it a great option for people who want to regulate their blood sugar levels.
It works well in chewy baked goods like muffins, flapjacks, and sticky toffee pudding. However, it has a thinner consistency than honey, so adjust the recipe as necessary. You can substitute honey with agave syrup using an equal amount or slightly less than honey, depending on your preference.

3. Brown Rice Syrup or Barley Malt Syrup
For a milder sweetness alternative, head straight to brown rice syrup. Brown rice syrup is sticky, like honey, making it an excellent substitute in products like granola bars, cereal treats, and baked beans.
It provides a natural level of sweetness that doesn't overpower the taste of other ingredients. It may not be as sweet as honey, so add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the recipe.
Another excellent option you might want to explore is barley malt syrup. Just like brown rice syrup, barley malt syrup offers a delightful natural sweetness that complements a wide range of dishes. While it may not be as sweet as honey, you can adjust the sweetness level by adding an extra tablespoon of sugar to your recipe when using barley malt syrup as a substitute.

4. Date Syrup
Date syrup is a natural sweetener created by soaking ground dates in water. It can be used as a substitute for honey in cakes and cookies, particularly for those who follow a vegan or diabetic diet.
The sweetness of date syrup can vary depending on the brand you choose, but it is generally considered less sweet than honey. Additionally, it has a lower environmental impact and is cost-effective. You can use the same amount of date syrup as honey in your recipes.

🥓 Honey Alternative for Marinades
5. Blackstrap Molasses
If you're looking for a bold, bittersweet flavor, blackstrap molasses is an excellent choice for your marinade. It's rich and complex, with notes of caramel, toffee, and burnt sugar. Blackstrap molasses also provides a boost of minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium, making it a healthier option than honey.
You can use it in a one-to-one ratio, and it pairs well with barbecued dishes like ribs, chicken, pork, and grilled tofu dishes. To adjust the sweetness, you can add a bit of brown sugar to balance the flavor or use a brown sugar substitute.

6. Pomegranate Molasses
For a sweet-tart balance that's perfect for poultry and lamb, try pomegranate molasses. This Middle Eastern condiment is made from reduced pomegranate juice, giving it a fruity depth and tangy finish.
Pomegranate molasses also has antioxidant properties, making it a healthy alternative to honey. To replace honey with pomegranate molasses, use a one-to-one ratio and adjust the amount of salt and acid in your marinade. You can also add extra herbs like thyme, rosemary, or mint to complement the flavor.
7. Coconut Nectar or Syrup
If you want to add a tropical twist to your marinades, coconut nectar or syrup is an excellent option. It's made from the sap of coconut blossoms, giving it a sweet, slightly nutty taste with a hint of caramel.
Coconut nectar is low-glycemic, meaning it won't cause a spike in your blood sugar levels like honey does. To substitute honey with coconut nectar, use a one-to-one ratio and adjust the acids and spices according to your taste. Coconut nectar pairs well with seafood, tofu, and vegetables like sweet potato and eggplant.
🥗 Honey Replacement in Salad Dressings
8. Apple Cider Vinegar and Maple Dijon Dressing
Apple cider vinegar is a staple in salad dressings because of its tangy and acidic taste, and it's easy to find at most stores.
Combine it with maple syrup or Dijon mustard, and you have a perfect substitute for honey. Mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with one tablespoon of maple syrup or Dijon mustard to make this dressing. Add salt and pepper to taste, and you're good to go.
9. Rice Vinegar and Jaggery
Rice vinegar adds an Asian flare to your salad dressings and can be substituted for honey by mixing it with jaggery. Jaggery is a natural sweetener that is made from boiled sugarcane juice and can be found in most health food stores.
To create this dressing, combine two tablespoons of rice vinegar with one tablespoon of jaggery. Add a pinch of salt and cayenne pepper for a little extra kick. The jaggery can be adjusted according to your preference, but make sure to balance the sweetness with the acidity of the vinegar for a perfectly balanced dressing.

10. Lemon Juice and Dandelion Syrup
If you're looking for a honey substitute that is also a natural diuretic, dandelion syrup is the perfect choice. Combine it with lemon juice for a sweet and tangy dressing that can rival any honey-based one.
To make this dressing, mix two tablespoons of lemon juice with one tablespoon of dandelion syrup. Season with a pinch of salt and add some chopped herbs for extra flavor.
11. Lime juice and Golden Syrup
Golden syrup is a popular sweetener in Britain and is made from partially inverted sugar syrup. The tartness of lime juice and the delicate sweetness of golden syrup complement each other perfectly.
Combine two tablespoons of lime juice with one tablespoon of golden syrup to make this dressing. Adjust the syrup quantity to your preferred level of sweetness and add ingredients like red chili flakes, cilantro, or mint. This dressing is particularly delicious on salads with fruit or avocado.

☕ Honey Substitute for Herbal Teas:
12. Liquid Stevia
Liquid Stevia is an ideal replacement for honey, primarily because it is calorie-free. Just a few drops can sweeten your tea without the need for sugar or honey.
However, keep in mind that Stevia can be intensely sweet, so start with a minimal amount and adjust to your desired level of sweetness. We suggest beginning with one or two drops and adding more if necessary.
13. Ginger Syrup
Ginger Syrup is a flavorful option if you are looking for a bit of spice in your tea. It is perfect for teas like chamomile or lemon ginger, adding a sweet and spicy depth to them.
Begin with a small drizzle and keep adding until you reach your preferred level of taste. Ginger syrup is also great for enhancing the flavor of your cocktails, or as a marinade for grilled chicken, so it's a versatile ingredient to keep on hand.
14. Lavender Syrup
For a calming and aromatic addition to your tea, try adding Lavender Syrup. It provides a delicate floral sweetness and captivating fragrance that complements teas like lavender or chamomile.
Start with a modest amount and adjust to achieve your preferred level of sweetness and floral notes. Lavender syrup is perfect for creating signature drinks, enhancing baked goods, or creating sweet sauces and marinades.
15. Corn Syrup
While not the healthiest option, dark or light corn syrup can serve as a basic sweetener for your teas. It provides straightforward sweetness without interfering with the herbal flavors. Nevertheless, it would be best if you used it sparingly to maintain balance in your tea. If you run out of it or want a different option, here are some substitutes for corn syrup.
However, high fructose corn syrup is not recommended for your diet as it can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues, so stick to the regular light or dark corn syrup without high fructose if you choose to use it as an option.

People also ask [FAQs]
Vegan honey is a plant-based sweetener. It's free of animal products and rich in nutrients like iron, zinc, and magnesium. It's a great option for those with allergies or sensitivities to animal-derived products.
Honey crystallizes naturally over time due to glucose and fructose molecules forming solid crystals. This process is affected by temperature and humidity but does not affect the taste or nutritional value of the honey.
Honey doesn't expire but can spoil if stored incorrectly. Keep it away from heat and light, and store it in a sealed container. Don't store it near strong-smelling foods. If you see mold, smell a foul odor, or notice fermentation, get rid of it and buy a new jar.
Real honey has a distinct flavor and texture that fake honey cannot match. It won't dissolve in water, and you can feel it on the tip of your finger when picked up. To tell if honey is real, look for cloudiness or a flowery scent; impure honey will be shiny and smell more like syrup. To get the most out of your honey, always make sure to buy pure and real honey.
🔑 Key Takeaways: Substitutes for Honey
- In conclusion, the world of honey substitutes is rich and diverse, offering a range of options to suit various culinary needs.
- Whether you're baking, marinating, making salad dressings, or preparing herbal teas, there are versatile alternatives like maple syrup, agave nectar, brown rice syrup, and date syrup for baking, while blackstrap molasses, pomegranate molasses, and coconut nectar shine in marinades.
- Salad dressings benefit from choices like apple cider vinegar and maple Dijon dressing, rice vinegar and jaggery, lemon juice and dandelion syrup, or lime juice and golden syrup.
- For herbal teas, consider liquid stevia, ginger syrup, lavender syrup, or corn syrup, each offering its unique flavor profile.
- So, the next time you find yourself without honey in the kitchen, rest assured that there are plenty of delicious substitutes waiting to elevate your dishes.
- If you're in a bind, you can make a homemade honey substitute using the DIY recipe in this post.
🍽️ Recipe
DIY Honey Substitute: Make Your Own Sweetener at Home
Ingredients
- 1.25 cups white sugar or sugar cane sugar
- 2 cups apple Juice
- 1 teaspoon lime or lemon juice
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, pour the apple juice and bring it to a simmer over medium heat.
- Gradually stir the sugar into the simmering apple juice. Continue stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sugar is dissolved, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently. Allow it to reduce until it thickens, which may take around 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Remove the mixture from the heat when it has thickened to your desired consistency (similar to honey). Stir in the lime or lemon juice to add a touch of acidity and balance the sweetness.
- Let the mixture cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a clean, airtight container. Allow it to cool completely before sealing the container.
Notes
- Making homemade honey takes time. Be patient while simmering and reducing the mixture. Rushing the process can result in a runny consistency.
- The thickness of your homemade honey is a matter of personal preference. If you like it thinner, reduce it less. If you prefer it thicker, simmer it longer. Just remember that it will thicken slightly as it cools.
- While simmering, make sure to stir the mixture occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan or burning. Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for easy stirring.
- Pay close attention to the heat to avoid the mixture boiling over. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Feel free to experiment with flavor enhancements. You can add a pinch of cinnamon, a vanilla bean, or a tiny bit of grated ginger for a unique twist on your homemade honey.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly before transferring it to a container. Hot liquids can warp or crack glass containers, so ensure it's not scalding hot when you pour it.
- If your homemade honey starts to crystallize over time, don't worry; this is natural. To return it to a liquid state, gently warm it in a water bath or microwave it in short bursts, stirring between each burst.
Elaine Q
You said, "1 ⅓ cup Allulose can be substituted with ⅔ cup honey." Do you mean "for 2/3 cup honey?" Use twice as much allulose syrup as the recipe calls for in honey?
Elle
Hi Elaine, yes, that is correct - perhaps it hasn't been worded the most straight-forward way!
Thank you for your comment, appreciate it!
Best, Elle