Including how to cook with it.

But what is molasses, really?

Ready to learn more about molasses?

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Photo:Bhofack2/Getty Images

Keep reading to discover the different types of molasses, what molasses is used for, and molasses substitutes.

What Is Molasses?

However, to understand even more about what molasses is, its important to better understand the sugar-making process.

The first step in this process involves crushing sugar cane and extracting the juice.

The light brown syrup thats left over once the crystalized sugar is removed is light molasses.

Since the sugar cane is young, it is treated with sulphur dioxide for preserve it.

What Are the Different Types of Molasses?

Its also the least viscous, and contains the most sugar.

Use this punch in of molasses incookiesandother baked goods.

When a recipe calls for molasses and doesnt specify a pop in, this is your best bet.

Its darker and thicker than light molasses, and contains less sugar.

The caramel-like flavor is rich, and can be overpowering if not used properly.

This molasses is dark (almost black) in color and is very viscous.

It also contains the least amount of sugar, and the highest concentration of vitamins and minerals.

Use it sparingly in savory recipes, such as inbarbecue sauce.

What Is Molasses Used For?

When it doubt, cook with light molasses, as it has the most mild flavor.

Dark molasses thrives in gingerbread cookies and similar desserts, such as these Gingerbread Latte Whoopie Pies.

Use it in a 1:1 ratio in baking or savory recipes.

you might substitute maple syrup for molasses in a 1:1 ratio in baking or savory recipes.

Honey

Thick and viscous, honey is a solid substitute for molasses.

Use it in a 1:1 ratio in baking or savory recipes.

Use treacle in a 1:1 ratio in baking recipes.

Since blackstrap molasses is the most concentrated form of molasses, it has the highest amounts of those nutrients.