In the US, corn syrup and maple syrup are widely used in various recipes. However, in my country, the UK, golden syrup is the go-to sweetener.
Contents
Golden syrup recipe
The syrup is made by refining sugar cane or sugar beet juice. It’s been a kitchen staple for over a century and is a beloved ingredient in British cooking. Its rich, caramel-like flavor and smooth texture make it perfect for everything, such as:
- Baking
- Drizzling over cakes like the classic treacle tart or pancakes like drop scones.
- Glazing ham or pork roasts
- Cocktail sweetener
- Salad dressing enhancer
- Barbecue sauce ingredient

As I’ve experimented with various sweeteners in my baking adventures, I’ve found that golden syrup offers unique properties that set it apart from its counterparts. Let’s compare golden syrup to other common sweeteners:
- Honey: Golden syrup has a milder flavor than honey and doesn’t crystallize as easily.
- Maple syrup: While both are liquid sweeteners, golden syrup is thicker and has a more neutral flavor than maple syrup.
- Corn syrup: Golden syrup provides a richer flavor and color compared to the neutral taste of corn syrup.
- Molasses: Golden syrup is lighter in color and flavor than molasses, making it more versatile in recipes.
Here’s how to make the Golden Syrup:

Golden Syrup
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup boiling water
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, add 1/4 cup of water and the sugar.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has completely dissolved and turns a light golden color.
- Add the lemon juice to the sugar mixture. Be cautious as it will bubble up.
- Slowly and carefully pour in the boiling water, stirring continuously. The mixture will bubble vigorously, so add the water gradually.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the syrup thickens and reaches the desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let it cool. The syrup will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Pour the cooled syrup into a clean, airtight container. Store at room temperature.
Nutrition
Golden syrup in popular dishes
1. ANZAC Biscuits
ANZAC biscuits hold a special place in Australasian culture, and golden syrup is the key to their characteristic chewiness and flavor. These oat-based cookies were created to withstand long journeys to soldiers during World War I. The golden syrup in the recipe acts as a binding agent and contributes to the biscuits’ long shelf life.
2. Treacle Tart
The classic treacle tart, despite its name, typically uses golden syrup rather than black treacle. This quintessentially British dessert features a shortcrust pastry base filled with a mixture of golden syrup, breadcrumbs, and lemon juice. The result is a sweet, tangy, and texturally interesting tart that has been beloved for generations.

3. Sticky Toffee Pudding
While not always made with golden syrup, some variations of sticky toffee pudding incorporate this sweet elixir into the sauce. The golden syrup adds depth to the toffee flavor and contributes to the sauce’s glossy appearance. As a fan of this indulgent dessert, I can attest that the addition of golden syrup elevates the entire experience.
4. Golden Syrup Dumplings
Golden syrup dumplings are a comforting dessert popular in Australia. Soft, fluffy dumplings are cooked in a golden syrup sauce, resulting in a warm, sweet treat that’s perfect for cold evenings. The golden syrup infuses the dumplings with its distinctive flavor and creates a luscious sauce that’s irresistible when served with vanilla ice cream.
Golden syrup substitutes
While golden syrup has a unique flavor profile, there are times when substitutes may be necessary.
1. Natural Alternatives
- Honey: Provides similar sweetness but with a stronger flavor
- Maple syrup: Offers a different but complementary taste profile
- Agave nectar: Has a neutral flavor and similar consistency
- Date syrup: Brings a rich, caramel-like flavor
2. Synthetic Alternatives
For those seeking a more neutral flavor or looking for a corn syrup substitute, there are synthetic alternatives available:
- Light corn syrup: Provides similar consistency without the distinct flavor
- Glucose syrup: Offers sweetness and similar properties in candy-making