Ingredient substitution guide
Best substitutes for agave
Best swap for agave: Honey, 1:1; slightly less sweet, thicker.
How we checked this: these swaps come from the substitution list Well Stockd uses to match recipes, and their ratios follow ordinary kitchen practice rather than one published chart. For exact amounts on many common swaps, see the NDSU and Colorado State University extension tables listed below. Editorial policy
What can I use instead of Agave?
The best swap for Agave is Honey, 1:1; slightly less sweet, thicker. Another option is Maple Syrup, use about 1 1/3 times as much; less sweet than agave, adds mild maple flavor. The table below also lists Simple Syrup, 3 swaps in all.
| Swap | Ratio and notes |
|---|---|
| Honey | 1:1; slightly less sweet, thicker Diet and health: Not for babies under 12 months: the CDC says honey can cause infant botulism. |
| Maple syrup | use about 1 1/3 times as much; less sweet than agave, adds mild maple flavor |
| Simple syrup | 1:1; neutral flavor, thinner consistency |
Source and limits
These swaps come from the substitution list Well Stockd uses to match recipes to your kitchen, last updated . We remove swaps known to be unsafe, but not every swap has been tested in a kitchen, and a swap is cooking guidance, not an allergen or nutrition equivalent. Check labels and what the recipe needs before substituting.
The ratios and usage notes follow ordinary kitchen practice rather than a single published chart. These two university extension tables list exact amounts for many common swaps:
- Ingredient Substitutions (FN198), NDSU Extension (opens in a new tab)
- Ingredient Substitutions (9.329), Colorado State University Extension (opens in a new tab)
- CDC, Foods and Drinks to Avoid or Limit (infants and toddlers) (opens in a new tab)
Browse every ingredient and read how these swaps are sourced.