8 Natural Sweeteners That Make It Easy to Cut Back on Sugar (2 of 5)

Maple Syrup

Maple syrup is made by reducing tree sap until it becomes a thick, amber liquid with a rich, early sweetness. True maple syrup contains minerals like zinc and manganese, giving it added nutritional value without the additives found in pancake syrups. Its warm flavor works beautifully in smoothies, marinades, baked goods, and even coffee. Grade A syrups offer a light taste, while darker grades bring a deeper, caramel-like richness.

Coconut Sugar

Coconut sugar is made from the sap of coconut blossoms and has a gentle caramel flavor similar to brown sugar. It’s lower on the glycemic scale than refined sugar, which means it digests more slowly and helps avoid sharp energy crashes. Coconut sugar can be used cup-for-cup in baking and works well in cookies, muffins, and sauces. Although it’s still a form of sugar, its nutrients and slower absorption make it a friendly option for everyday use.