Molasses

Syrup vs. molasses – the subtle but crucial difference
Syrup (e.g., maple syrup, agave syrup, or classic sugar syrup) is created when a sugar-water mixture is thickened at moderate temperatures until it forms a flowable, clear-sweet glaze with approximately 66–68% sugar content. It has a pleasantly "clean-sweet" taste, dissolves instantly in drinks, enhances pancakes, porridge, coffee, and cocktails, and—depending on the variety—has a medium glycemic index. Those looking to buy syrup usually look for a pure flavor and easy mixability.

Molasses (pekmez), on the other hand, is a thick, dark brown byproduct of sugar cane or sugar beet refining. After the sugar crystals are removed, a mineral-rich concentrate remains, which tastes of caramel and has a light roasted flavor and is particularly popular for its high iron content (plus calcium, magnesium, and potassium). Its glycemic index is slightly lower than that of table sugar, making it an attractive natural sweetener in a low-GI diet.

New in the range for Germany
We now offer five distinctive varieties that will enrich your menu as well as your search engine ranking:

Buy grape molasses– velvety-fruity sweetness from fully ripe grapes, ideal for muesli, yogurt and oriental desserts.

Buy date molasses– Caramel note and extra minerals; perfect with pancakes or as a vegan honey alternative.

Buy mulberry molasses– Smooth, almost creamy, and rich in antioxidants; perfect for smoothie bowls and energy balls.

Buy carob molasses– Chocolatey and malty, yet caffeine-free; adds warmth and depth to baked goods.

Buy juniper berry molasses– not a sweetener, but the spicy counterpart: aromatic berries for game dishes, sauerkraut, gin infusions and digestif syrups.

All variants are 100% natural, vegan, produced without additives, and freshly bottled in Germany. Thanks to their different flavor profiles, you can precisely control the sweetness, color, or mineral content of your recipes – from pumpernickel with grape molasses to vegan chocolate cream with carob molasses to homemade gin and tonic with juniper berry infusion.

In short: Reach for syrup when you need a smooth, crystal-clear sweetness for drinks and desserts. Choose our grape, date, mulberry, or carob molasses if you desire caramel depth, valuable minerals, and a lower glycemic kick—and enhance savory dishes with whole juniper berries. Combine enjoyment, nutrients, and search engine keywords all in one.

How is grape molasses made without added sugar?

Squeezed grape juice is slowly boiled down until the water evaporates and the natural fructose caramelizes – without any added sugar.

What health benefits does grape molasses offer over table sugar?

Provides antioxidants (resveratrol), potassium and trace elements with a slightly lower glycemic index.

Does grape molasses contain sulfites, gluten or lactose?

No – 100% grape, sulfite-free, gluten-free, and lactose-free.

How do I replace sugar in recipes?

1 cup sugar ≈ ¾ cup grape molasses; reduce liquid in recipe by about 2 tablespoons.

Does grape molasses change the color of the dough?

Yes, it gives breads and cakes a natural, amber to dark brown color.

How long does grape molasses last and how do I store it?

Store in a cool, dark place for up to 18 months; always use a clean spoon after opening.

How is juniper berry molasses (Andız Pekmezi) traditionally made?

Ripe juniper berries are crushed, gently boiled with water and then thickened until a syrupy consistency is achieved – completely without added sugar.

What is the aroma of juniper berry molasses?

Mildly resinous and spicy, slightly sweet with herbal notes – reminiscent of gin, but without alcohol.

What are the health benefits of juniper berry molasses?

Contains essential oils, vitamin C, and antioxidant lignans; traditionally used to support digestion and respiratory health.

How do I use juniper berry molasses in the kitchen?

Perfect for game marinades, craft cocktails, cheese platters or as a glaze for baked vegetables.

Can I use juniper berry molasses as a non-alcoholic gin alternative?

Yes – 1 teaspoon of molasses in mineral water with lime makes a non-alcoholic “Juniper Spritz.”

Is juniper berry molasses suitable for pregnant women?

Juniper can stimulate labor; pregnant women should seek medical advice before consuming it.

Is carob molasses caffeine-free and gluten-free?

Yes – 0% caffeine, naturally gluten-free; ideal for children and those sensitive to chocolate.

What is the calcium content?

1 tablespoon covers about 10% of the daily requirement (about 100 mg).

Can carob molasses completely replace cocoa?

Taste-wise yes (malty-chocolaty), color darker, but without bitterness.

Does carob molasses thicken sauces?

Yes, high natural pectin content binds BBQ & dessert sauces without starch.

How do I dose it in bread and cakes?

Substitute 50 g molasses + 50 g liquid ↔ 100 g sugar; increase baking powder by ⅛ tsp.

Storage & crystal tendency?

Store airtight at below 20°C; minimal crystallization thanks to malt sugars.

How does date molasses differ from date syrup?

Cooked for longer, thicker, caramel-like, higher mineral and fiber content.

Is date molasses suitable for a low-GI or vegan diet?

Yes, vegan & GI ≈ 55; still high in carbohydrates – watch portions.

How does date molasses affect iron and potassium levels?

1 tablespoon provides approx. 0.9 mg iron & 200 mg potassium – ideal vegan booster.

Can I dissolve date molasses in cold drinks?

In smoothies, yes; in iced coffee, mix with a little warm water beforehand.

Is date molasses suitable for children?

Okay from toddler age onwards, but dose moderately because of the sweetness.

How do I store date molasses after opening?

Room temperature is sufficient; close the lid tightly and protect from sunlight.

Why is mulberry molasses called “beauty molasses”?

High content of resveratrol + vitamin C supports cell protection & skin shine.

Is mulberry molasses suitable for diabetics?

GI ≈ 54, still a source of sugar – insulin-dependent diabetics should adjust doses.

Is mulberry molasses gluten-free and low in allergens?

Yes – pure fruit, no gluten, nuts or soy.

Best use in smoothie bowls?

Mix 1 tbsp over frozen berries; adds natural sweetness & soft texture.

How do I replace sugar in energy balls?

For every 200g of oat flakes, add 3 tbsp of mulberry molasses + reduce the liquid by 1 tbsp.

Shelf life & crystallization?

12–15 months; if necessary, liquefy crystallized edges briefly in a warm water bath.

In Turkish they are called “Pekmez”, in English “Molasses”, in French “Mélasse”, in Spanish ‘Melaza’, in Greek “Πετιμέζι/Petimezi” and in Arabic “دبس/Dibs”.