Grocery
Erythritol Sweetener
What it is
Erythritol is a sugar alcohol that is often used as a sugar substitute. It is produced through the fermentation of glucose. It has a clean, sweet taste with no aftertaste for most people. It is about 70% as sweet as table sugar. It is often blended with other sweeteners to achieve a more sugar-like sweetness profile. It is commonly found in baking mixes and sugar-free products.
How people cook with it
This sweetener can be used in a variety of ways in the kitchen. It is a versatile ingredient for sweetening beverages and baked goods.
- Sweetening coffee and tea
- Baking cakes and cookies
- Making sugar-free desserts
- Sweetening yogurt and oatmeal
When baking, erythritol can often be substituted for sugar in a 1:1 ratio, though you may need to adjust liquid ingredients slightly as it does not absorb moisture the same way sugar does. It does not brown or caramelize like sugar, so baked goods may have a lighter color. It can also be dissolved in liquids to sweeten drinks or sauces. For recipes requiring a specific sweetness level, consider blending it with a more potent sweetener like stevia or monk fruit to achieve a taste closer to sugar.
How it differs from similar foods
Its crystalline structure is similar to sugar, making it easy to measure and use in recipes. It has a cooling sensation in the mouth that some people notice.
Who it is for
Home bakers and individuals looking to reduce their sugar intake often choose erythritol.
How to keep the rest
Store erythritol in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. It is not hygroscopic, meaning it does not readily absorb moisture from the air, which helps it remain free-flowing. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat to maintain its quality over time.