Light karo syrup is a clear-coloured syrup that is made by extracting sugar from corn-starch. This type of syrup often includes a little vanilla flavouring. Popularly known as corn syrup you will find the corn syrup listed as an ingredient in other recipes such as candy, caramel popcorn, frosting, and sweet sauces too. Karo syrup does not crystallize like sugar does but it can withstand high cooking temperatures. If you happen to be out of karo syrup there are other alternatives you can consider using in place of it in pecan pie.
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Agave Nectar
One of the best alternatives to karo syrup in pecan pie is agave nectar. Agave nectar is one of the best alternatives you can find to add in your meals. This is because agave nectar is a bit more neutral in flavour than other substitutes and it is still a liquid at room temperature plus it is similar in sweetness level. Its mild flavour makes it a great equal swap-in for dishes such as pecan pie or chocolate sauce. Keep in mind that it will not work for making candy because it has different chemical properties than corn syrup.
Brown Rice Syrup
Another great substitute for karo syrup in pecan pie is brown rice syrup. Brown rice syrup is made by breaking down rice starches into sugars then boiling them into a syrup. To use brown rice syrup in place of karo syrup use a one-to-one substitution ratio. You can also use brown rice syrup for candy making since it helps prevent crystallization. The consistency of brown rice is similar to that of corn syrup. This syrup also has a little bit of a nutty flavour plus it is almost like cooked brown rice, so keep in mind that it may not work for all dishes.
Honey
Honey can also work as a great substitute for karo syrup in pecan pie. However, honey will not prevent crystallization the same way corn syrup does so it is not the best choice for making candy but you can use it in other recipes though. Take note that honey has a distinct flavour so try to choose a mild variety like acacia or clover, unless you want to add a strong honey flavour to your pie or any other recipe. To replace karo syrup in your meal simply use a 1 to 1 recipe.
Golden Syrup
Also, on our list of best substitutes for karo syrup is golden syrup. Golden syrup is one of the best substitutes for karo syrup in pecan pie because it is not as strong as honey can be to your meal. This British pantry staple has a light, buttery flavour and can be used in place of karo syrup at a one-to-one ratio. Golden syrup also has the same chemical properties of karo syrup so it can be used in candy making as well.
Cane Syrup
Cane syrup, also a good substitute for karo syrup in pecan pie, is made by extracting the juice from raw sugar cane stalks and boiling it down until thick. You can use cane syrup in place of karo syrup in your pecan pie at a one to one ratio. Take note that although you can use it in place of karo syrup in a lot of recipes it’s not a good substitute for candy and caramel making.
Sugar and Water
You can use sugar and water in place of karo syrup in pecan pie. To substitute karo syrup with sugar and water for each cup of light karo syrup, substitute 1 cup granulated sugar dissolved in a quarter cup of warm water. If you want it to become darker, substitute a cup of packed brown sugar for the granulated sugar and dissolve it into a quarter cup of water. This home-made syrup makes a great substitute for baked goods such as pecan pie. However, keep in mind that sugar crystallizes at high temperatures so it will not work with candy recipes that need to go past the soft-ball stage.
Maple Syrup
Many people’s favourite pancake topper can also be used in place of karo syrup. In order to use maple syrup in place of karo syrup substitute it at a one-to-one ratio for karo syrup in pecan pie as well as in other recipes. Just like honey and sugar solution maple syrup is not a good substitute for karo syrup. Also take note that maple syrup has a strong, earthy flavour so it might alter your recipe a little bit.
Butter
Surprisingly, you can also use butter in place of karo syrup in pecan pie. Unlike some of the substitutes that we have mentioned above you can use it in making candy. Just like glucose and fructose molecules, fats do an excellent job of interrupting crystallization in candy. You can also use butter in place of karo syrup in many other recipes apart from baked goods and desserts.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is another alternative to karo syrup in pecan pie. If cane sugar is the only sweetener you can get your hands on simply heat the sugar and water with a little lemon juice until it turns a light golden colour, and you will be good to go. You can use this in place of karo syrup in a lot of baked goods except for making candy. This home-made mix works the same way as the sugar and water mix for your recipes.
Birch Syrup
Similar to maple syrup, you can use birch syrup in place of karo syrup for your pecan pie. Birch syrup is made up of glucose and fructose instead of the more complex sucrose. This syrup is another able corn syrup alternative where crystal disruption is your goal. Keep in mind that it may be a bit pricey, requiring more than twice as much sap to produce as maple syrup, but it is delicious. Simply use it at a 1 to 1 ratio if you want to add it in place of karo syrup in your pie or any other recipe.
