How to Substitute Agave for Brown Sugar

Replace brown sugar in recipes with agave for a natural alternative.

People often elect to avoid sugar and they opt for a more natural alternative. Instead of using brown sugar in your recipes, you can replace it with agave nectar. Agave nectar, often compared to honey due to its texture and flavor, comes from the sap of an agave plant. Agave nectar is available in light and dark syrup. The light syrup does not taste as strong and works best in recipes because it will not alter the taste as much.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring cup

Instructions

1. Substitute 1 cup of light or dark brown sugar with 2/3 cup of agave nectar.

2. Combine the agave with the liquids or the fats in your recipe to prevent an oily or crusty layer from forming.

3. Reduce the heat in the oven by 25 degrees Fahrenheit if you are baking. This will increase your baking time slightly, so check on the food often to ensure that it finishes cooking properly.

References

• All About Agave: Substituting Agave Nectar for Other Sugars
• Culinate: How to Cook with Agave Nectar
• University of Missouri: News: Agave Nectar
• The Kitchn: Tips for Substituting Agave in Baked Goods