Corn syrup is a widely used cooking ingredient in many parts of the world. It is often chosen for its nice sweetness, ability to easily dissolve in liquids, and the fact that it does not crystallise like many other sweeteners.
However, a huge downside of store – bought corn syrup is that it is high in fructose. This means it can worsen diabetes, promote inflammation, and cause liver problems. Whether you are concerned about its health effects, unable to find it, or simply do not like its flavour, you can always make your own corn syrup at home. Here is how:
1. Required Ingredients To Make Corn Syrup Substitute
Here are the ingredients you will be needing:
- 2 cups of sugar
- 2 tsp of lemon juice
- ¾ cup of water
- ¼ tsp of cream tartar
- Pinch of salt
2. Steps For Making Corn Syrup At Home
- Add your sugar, water, cream tartar, lemon juice, and salt into a heavy bottom saucepan
- Place the saucepan on the stove over medium heat
- Leave the pan there until the sugar dissolves fully
- Once it does, reduce the heat and allow the mixture to simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes until it simmers enough and creates a thick syrup
- After the syrup consistency is properly achieved, remove the pot and place it in a bowl of cold water for quick cooling
- You can use the syrup for your cooking after it has completely cooled down
- For storage, make sure to keep your corn syrup in an airtight container and place it somewhere at room temperature
3. FAQ
Is this homemade corn syrup substitute the same with store – bought corn syrup?
Nope! The corn syrups you see in stores are very sugary with no corn flavours while this homemade corn syrup has a hint of corn to it. Homemade corn syrup will also form sugar crystals after being left untouched for a while, making it not ideal for making candies.
What are the uses of corn syrup?
Corn syrup is mainly used as a sweetening additive. They can be used to make rice krispies, ice creams, baked goods, candies, jams, frostings, jellies, cakes, biscuits, nutrition bars, and many other food products. You can also find it in commercial products such as instant coffee / espresso.
How long can this homemade corn syrup last?
Despite containing no preservatives, this homemade corn syrup can last for up to 3 months! Sure, store – bought corn syrup can last longer, but 3 months is still a decent amount of time for a homemade product. Those who love cooking and baking will surely finish a batch within that time!
Will this homemade corn syrup make everything taste like corn?
While homemade corn syrup does have a greater corn taste than the ones you buy in grocery stores, it is still relatively mild and can be easily overpowered by other ingredients. If you just simply don’t like the flavour of corn then you should just make a thick sugar syrup.
