Let’s be real–there’s nothing quite like a drizzle of honey on warm bread. It’s just perfect as it is. But when you’re cooking or baking, there are some great alternatives that can step in and do the job beautifully.

1.Brown Rice Syrup

Looking for a sweetener that’s a bit more understated than honey? Brown rice syrup is a fantastic option. It’s a bit sticky and messy, so it’s not the best choice if you’re looking for something neat and tidy.

But if you want a more subtle sweetness, this is the way to go. Unlike honey, brown rice syrup isn’t overly sweet–it’s just mildly sweet, which makes it perfect for those who prefer a less intense flavor.

Plus, it’s usually organic and all-natural, making it a great choice for those looking for a cleaner ingredient. And the best part? It’s a 1:1 substitute for honey, so you can easily swap it into your recipes without any hassle.

2.Light Corn Syrup

Light corn syrup is a great stand-in for honey in baking. It’s got a similar sweetness and texture, and you can use it in the same amount–so if a recipe calls for 1/4 cup of honey, just use 1/4 cup of corn syrup instead.

Sure, it’s not the healthiest option, but if you’re after something that feels close to honey, this is your guy. Dark corn syrup works too, but it’s got a bolder, earthier flavor–think molasses instead of honey.

So if you’re in a pinch, it’s fine to use, but keep that stronger taste in mind. Either way, swapping in corn syrup is a simple way to keep your recipe on track without the honey.

3.Coconut Syrup or Nectar

Coconut syrup is a fantastic plant-based alternative to honey, making it a great choice for vegans. It comes from coconut blossoms and has a texture similar to honey, but with less sugar and a lower glycemic index.

This makes it an excellent option for those keeping an eye on their sugar intake. While it’s not as sweet as honey, it has a rich, caramel-like flavor that adds depth to recipes.

When substituting honey with coconut syrup, use a 1:1 ratio. Keep in mind you might want to add a little extra for sweetness, as it’s milder than honey.

4.Date Syrup

Looking for a natural alternative to honey? Homemade date syrup is a fantastic option! Made with just Medjool dates and water, it’s 100% natural and packed with antioxidants and fiber.

The process is similar to making simple syrup–easy and straightforward. Sure, it takes a little extra time, but the result is worth it. Plus, it’s a delicious and nutritious substitute for honey.

Pro tip: Swap 1/4 cup of honey for 1/4 cup of date syrup–easy peasy!

5.Molasses

Did you know there are five types of molasses? While you might see light and dark molasses most often in stores, they’re both great alternatives to honey.

The best part? You can swap them in at a 1:1 ratio without changing the texture of your dish. The flavor might shift a tiny bit if honey is the star of the show, but otherwise, the difference is barely noticeable.

Here’s how to make the switch: just replace 1/4 cup of honey with 1/4 cup of light or dark molasses. Easy peasy!

6.Brown Sugar

Need a sweetener and out of honey? Brown sugar is a great go-to since it’s probably already in your pantry. It works perfectly when you’re looking for a sweet touch in drinks like tea or coffee.

However, if you’re using honey as a spread, brown sugar might not be the best fit. For every 1/4 cup of honey a recipe calls for, you can swap in 1/4 cup of brown sugar.

You might find you need a tad more to get the sweetness just right. Just remember, even though it’s a substitute, it’s still sugar, so keep an eye on how much you use.

7.Simple Syrup

Simple syrup is a must-have for any cocktail enthusiast and a staple in many bakeries and kitchens. If you’re new to it, don’t worry–we’ve got you covered.

This easy homemade mix of sugar and water is a versatile ingredient you’ll reach for again and again. Whether you use white or brown sugar, the result is a smooth, sweet base perfect for balancing flavors.

Brown sugar, in particular, adds a richer, deeper flavor and can even stand in for honey. You’ll find simple syrup in your favorite coffee drinks and smoothies–it’s the secret to that perfect sweetness.

Making it is a breeze: just combine sugar and water, and you’re good to go. Keep a batch on hand for whenever you need it. For an extra touch, try adding a splash of vanilla, especially if you’re using it in coffee.

And here’s a handy tip: swap 1/4 cup of honey with 1/4 cup of simple syrup for a quick substitution.

8.Agave Nectar

Agave nectar has become a go-to sweetener for many, and it’s a great alternative to honey. Since it’s sweeter than honey, a little goes a long way–perfect if you’re someone who loves a sweeter taste.

Keep in mind that agave nectar is thinner and runnier than honey, so you’ll want to reduce other liquids in your recipe by about 1/4 when using it as a substitute.

One more tip: agave nectar cooks faster than honey or sugar, so you might need to lower your oven temperature to prevent things from browning too quickly.

Swap 1/4 cup of honey for 1/4 cup of agave nectar, and you’re all set!

9.Barley Malt Syrup

Looking for a sweet substitute? Barley malt syrup is a great stand-in for molasses or honey. It’s thicker and a bit less sweet than honey, so you’ll want to use twice as much when swapping it in.

For example, replace 1/4 cup of honey with 1/2 cup of barley malt syrup. Keep in mind that this might slightly change the texture and flavor of your recipe, but it’s a solid option when you’re in a pinch.

10.Maple Syrup

Did you know you can swap honey for maple syrup in a recipe? While both have their own unique flavors, they’re both equally delicious. If you’re looking for a slightly richer, more maple-like taste, this substitution is a great way to go.

The best part? Your dish won’t lose any sweetness–it’ll just have a different flavor profile. So, how do you do it? Simple: Use a 1:1 ratio. Trade 1/4 cup of honey for 1/4 cup of maple syrup.

The result? A dish that’s just as sweet but with a hint of that smooth, maple goodness. Give it a try and see what you think!