Best Substitutes for Molasses
Dark, rich sweeteners like brown sugar syrup or honey can stand in for molasses in most baked goods.
Best overall swap
Dark brown sugar (dissolved)
1 cup packed brown sugar dissolved in 1/4 cup hot water per 1 cup molassesClose in color and sweetness; slightly less deep in flavor.
All Substitutes for Molasses
Dark brown sugar (dissolved)
1 cup packed brown sugar dissolved in 1/4 cup hot water per 1 cup molassesClose in color and sweetness; slightly less deep in flavor.
Maple syrup
1:1Lighter flavor than molasses but works fine in cookies and marinades.
Honey
1:1Milder and sweeter — best in recipes where molasses isn’t the dominant flavor.