Barley Malt Syrup vs Sugar: Which is Better?

Sugar and barley malt syrup are two commonly used sweeteners in the food industry. Sugar, also known as sucrose, is a collective term for various sweet-tasting, soluble carbohydrates found in many food products. Derived from sugar cane or sugar beet, sucrose is a combination of glucose and fructose. On the other hand, barley malt syrup is an unrefined sweetener extracted from sprouted, malted barley. With approximately 65 percent maltose, 30 percent complex carbohydrates, and 3 percent storage protein, barley malt syrup boasts a distinctive “malty” flavor and a dark brown appearance. 

While sugar has a long-standing history and wider spread use, barley malt syrup offers its own unique taste and characteristics, making it a suitable alternative for those seeking a different sweetness in their culinary creations.

Comparing Barley Malt Syrup vs Sugar

	Barley Malt Syrup	Sugar
Substitution ratio	1 ⅓ cup barley malt syrup: 1 cup sugar	1 cup sugar: 1 ⅓  cup barley malt syrup
Gluten-free?	No	Yes
Keto-friendly?	No	No
Paleo-friendly?	No	No
Common Allergens	Barley, gluten	Sugarcane
Pantry shelf life (unopened/sealed)	2 years	2 plus years
Best for baking	Bagels and pretzels	Most desserts and sweet treats

Differences Between Barley Malt Syrup And Sugar

Table sugar, or sucrose, is solid and widely used as a sweetener in food technology. Its primary purpose is to provide sweetness, but it also functions as a preservative, texture modifier, fermentation substrate, flavoring and coloring agent, and bulking agent. With its equal parts glucose and fructose, table sugar is a versatile ingredient in numerous food products.

In contrast, barley malt syrup offers an alternative to refined sugars and artificial sweeteners. It is a flavorful liquid sweetener that contains fructose, glucose, and a substantial amount of maltose. Derived from the malting process of barley, the syrup is employed in the bread and baked goods industry to enhance flavor and create browning. It adds a distinct malt flavor to cereal production.

Taste and Culinary Uses

Sugar, the gold standard of sweet taste, delivers a clean and pleasant sweetness from beginning to end. Not only does sugar enhance the flavor of baked goods, but it also acts as a preservative and bulking agent. It is also commonly used in sauces, syrups, and beverages to increase viscosity, providing a thicker consistency and a satisfying mouthfeel.

Barley malt syrup possesses a mild and sweet flavor, resembling molasses. Its consistency and distinctive taste make it an excellent ingredient for bagels, breads, and malted milk drinks. Used in yeasted bread such as pumpernickel or rye, barley malt syrup plays a crucial role in the leavening process while contributing to the overall flavor profile. It can also be drizzled over cereal or pancakes or used to create delicious treats like popcorn balls and caramel corn. 

When added to recipes, barley malt syrup adds moisture and imparts a unique taste to spice cakes, gingerbread, muffins, and dark loaves of bread. It pairs exceptionally well with roasted or baked sweet potatoes and winter squash, elevating their natural flavors.

Are Barley Malt Syrup and Sugar Substitutes for Each Other?

To replace refined white or brown sugar, you can substitute barley malt syrup in a ratio of 1 1/3 cups of syrup for every 1 cup of sugar. Reduce the liquid in the recipe by approximately 1/4 cup. For lighter baked goods, incorporate 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda per cup of barley malt in your baking.

Nutritional Profile And Health Benefits

Table sugar (granulated sugar, sucrose)

• Quantity: 2 tsp.
• Calories: 30
• Total Carbohydrate: 8 g
• Sugars: 8 g
• Glycemic Index: 65

Barley malt syrup

• Quantity: 1 tbsp.
• Calories: 60
• Total Carbohydrate: 15 g
• Sugars: 8 g
• Glycemic Index: ~42

Both sugar and barley malt syrup are sweeteners that provide quick energy to the body in the form of glucose. While sugar is a simple carbohydrate widely used in food processing, barley malt syrup offers additional health benefits. Barley malt syrup contains maltol, which is believed to have anti-tumor properties. It is also lower in calories compared to regular sugar.

Diet Suitability

Let’s start with white sugar. Despite not being directly derived from animals, white sugar is not considered vegan due to its refining process, which often involves bone char. For individuals following a vegan lifestyle, alternatives like coconut sugar or maple syrup can be used as sweeteners instead.

When it comes to the keto diet, white sugar is not a recommended sweetener. This is because it has a high glycemic index, meaning it can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. For those following a keto diet, alternatives like stevia or erythritol are often preferred as they have minimal impact on blood sugar levels. White sugar is also not paleo-friendly or Whole30-approved.

Now, let’s shift our focus to barley malt syrup. While vegan, it may not suit individuals following a keto or paleo diet. This is due to its high carbohydrate content and potential inflammatory properties. In the context of a paleo diet, sweeteners like raw honey or maple syrup are generally preferred over barley malt syrup.

If you are following the Whole30 program, which requires the elimination of all sweeteners, including honey, barley malt syrup is also not approved. The goal of the Whole30 program is to reset your eating habits and promote whole, unprocessed foods.

How to Store Barley Malt Syrup and Sugar

While sugar is best kept at room temperature in an airtight container, barley malt syrup requires a cool and dry location. Refrigeration is advisable during warmer months for the syrup. If the syrup solidifies, gently warm the jar in warm water until it regains its fluidity.

Price and Availability

Sugar is a relatively affordable option, priced as low as 25 cents per pound. In contrast, barley malt syrup can be more expensive, with costs starting from 8 USD and potentially higher. Finding barley malt syrup might also be challenging, but your best option is to explore online retailers.

Environmental Impact

Burning sugarcane has a detrimental impact on the environment, mainly through the generation of air pollution. The combustion of the leafy portions of sugarcane releases toxic and hazardous substances into the atmosphere, significantly contributing to the degradation of air quality.

Switching gears, the environmental implications of barley malt syrup can depend on the brand. Many brands are dedicated to vegan-friendly, ethical, and sustainable production methods. These brands prioritize using sustainable and plant-based processes, ensuring their barley malt syrup minimizes its environmental impact.

Barley Malt Syrup vs. Sugar: The Ultimate Verdict

Table sugar is generally cheaper than barley malt syrup, making it easier on the wallet. Table sugar is also well-known for its sweetening capabilities, and it has a light flavor that does not interfere with other ingredients in recipes. However, barley malt syrup may be necessary in specific recipes where a more complex flavor or liquid sweetness is required without adding water. So, the winner depends on the recipe!

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