Invert sugar
Invert sugar is a liquid type of sugar consisting of fructose and glucose. It is sweeter than granulated sugar, prevents sugar from crystallising and helps retain moisture. This makes it perfect for preparing syrups, jam and cake fillings.
What is invert sugar?
Invert sugar is a mixture of equal parts glucose (grape sugar) and fructose (fruit sugar). This type of sugar is produced from regular sugar (also known as saccharose or sucrose) by adding acids or an enzyme as a catalyst. The name refers to the inversion of the optical rotation of the sugar from positive to negative, in other words from dextrorotatory to levorotatory.
Is invert sugar sweeter than regular sugar?
Invert sugar is indeed sweeter than regular sugar. This means you need less of it compared to refined sugar. Invert sugar is also easier for the body to digest, which can make it a good option for people with digestive issues. Another advantage is that invert sugar crystallises less quickly than refined sugar and has a moisture-retaining effect. Thanks to this hydrating property, cakes dry out less quickly.
How can you replace sugar with invert sugar?
Because invert sugar is much sweeter than regular sugar, we do not recommend replacing refined sugar on a one-to-one basis. It is best to add small amounts of invert sugar to a recipe and adjust gradually until you reach a flavour that suits your taste.
Can honey be replaced with invert sugar?
Honey can be replaced one-to-one with invert sugar. This is because honey contains largely the same sugar ratio as invert sugar. Compared to honey, invert sugar is considerably cheaper, making it an excellent and more affordable alternative.
What can you use invert sugar for?
Invert sugar can be used for many different purposes. It is ideal for sweetening syrups, jams, cake fillings and other treats. Invert sugar has a smooth texture and a hydrating effect, which makes it perfect for creating smooth ganache or glaze that remains soft and creamy. You can even make marzipan using invert sugar. Other products such as quark, gingerbread, ice cream, cakes, sponges, sorbets, waffles, whipped cream, biscuits and yoghurt can also be sweetened with invert sugar.
Buying invert sugar
Invert sugar allows you to sweeten many end products while using less than refined sugar. In addition, it is an excellent substitute for honey and is also more affordable.
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