Out of golden syrup? Don’t let that stop you from whipping up your favorite recipes. You’re in the middle of baking a batch of chewy ginger cookies or preparing a sticky toffee pudding, and as you reach for the golden syrup, you realize the bottle is empty.
That rich, caramel-like sweetness you were counting on is missing. Before you scrap the recipe, take a breath. Golden syrup’s unique flavor and texture can be replicated with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Golden syrup, a British staple, is known for its smooth, buttery sweetness and golden hue. But whether you’re out of golden syrup, avoiding refined sugars, or just experimenting, these substitutes will deliver the same delicious results.
From pantry staples to creative twists, here’s how to keep your baking and cooking on track—no last-minute store runs required.

7 Easy Substitutes for Golden Syrup
Golden syrup’s charm lies in its smooth texture and caramel-like sweetness. These substitutes mimic its flavor and consistency while adding their own flair. Perfect for baking, glazes, or even drizzling over pancakes, here’s how to pivot without missing a beat:
1. Honey: The Natural Sweetener
Honey is the closest match to golden syrup in terms of texture and sweetness. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that honey has a stronger flavor, so it may alter the taste slightly.
This substitute works beautifully in baked goods like cookies and cakes. I once used honey in a gingerbread recipe, and the result was just as delicious. For a milder flavor, use light-colored honey.
Pro tip: Warm the honey slightly to make it easier to pour.
If you’re exploring alternatives, you may also enjoy reading about the best honey substitutes.
2. Maple Syrup: The Rich & Earthy Swap
Maple syrup brings a rich, earthy sweetness that works well as a golden syrup substitute. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but be mindful of its distinct flavor, which can shine through in delicate recipes.
This swap is perfect for pancakes, waffles, or glazes. My friend used maple syrup in a sticky toffee pudding, and the rich flavor was a hit. For extra depth, use dark maple syrup.
Fun twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon to enhance the maple flavor.
For more maple-based alternatives, check out these maple syrup substitutes.
3. Light Corn Syrup: The Neutral Option
Light corn syrup is a great substitute for golden syrup, as it has a similar texture and mild sweetness. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it lacks the caramel flavor of golden syrup.
This substitute works well in recipes where you want a neutral sweetness, like pecan pie or caramel sauces. I used light corn syrup in a pecan pie, and the texture was perfect. For a richer flavor, mix it with a bit of molasses.
Pro tip: Add a drop of vanilla extract to mimic golden syrup’s complexity.
If you’re curious about other neutral sweeteners, explore these corn syrup substitutes.
4. Brown Rice Syrup: The Healthier Alternative
Brown rice syrup is a mild, slightly nutty sweetener that works well as a golden syrup substitute. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it’s less sweet, so you may need to adjust the amount.
This swap is perfect for health-conscious bakers. My cousin used brown rice syrup in granola bars, and the chewy texture was spot-on. For extra flavor, mix it with a bit of honey.
Watch out: Brown rice syrup can be sticky, so warm it slightly before using.
For more healthy alternatives, check out these brown rice syrup substitutes.
5. Molasses + Sugar: The Caramel Combo
Molasses brings a deep, caramel-like flavor that mimics golden syrup’s richness. Mix 1 part molasses with 1 part sugar and 1 part water, then simmer until dissolved.
This substitute works well in gingerbread or sticky toffee pudding. I used this combo in a ginger cookie recipe, and the flavor was incredible. For a lighter taste, use light molasses.
Fun twist: Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
If you’re exploring molasses alternatives, you might enjoy these molasses substitutes.
6. Agave Nectar: The Smooth Sweetener
Agave nectar is a smooth, mild sweetener that works well as a golden syrup substitute. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it’s sweeter, so you may need to reduce the amount.
This swap is perfect for vegan or gluten-free recipes. My neighbor used agave nectar in a vegan caramel sauce, and the result was silky and delicious. For extra flavor, mix it with a bit of vanilla extract.
Pro tip: Use light agave nectar for a milder taste.
For more smooth sweeteners, explore these agave nectar substitutes.
7. Simple Syrup: The Quick Fix
Simple syrup, made from equal parts sugar and water, is a quick and easy substitute for golden syrup. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that it lacks the caramel flavor.
This substitute works well in cocktails, glazes, or drizzles. I used simple syrup in a lemon glaze, and the texture was perfect. For extra flavor, infuse the syrup with vanilla or citrus zest.
Fun twist: Add a splash of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
If you’re diving into simple syrups, you might find these simple syrup substitutes helpful.

Kimberly Baxter is the proud owner of the food blog Eatdelights.com. A self-proclaimed foodie, Kimberly loves to cook and share her recipes with others. She has been blogging about food since 2010 and has amassed a following of loyal readers.
Her recipes are creative, delicious, and easy to follow. In addition to her blog, Kimberly also enjoys writing for other publications.