Difference In Molasses and Blackstrap Molasses

With holiday baking and gingerbread season right around the corner, I wanted to talk about the difference in molasses and blackstrap molasses. You may know that molasses goes into molasses cookies, gingerbread cookies, and many other holiday bakes. But, you may be unsure of which kind to buy.

What is Molasses?

Molasses is a dark, thick, and syrupy substance that is created during the process of refining sugar cane. There are two types of molasses that vary in color from light to dark. The light molasses comes from the first boiling cycle of sugarcane, and therefore has the highest sugar content. The dark molasses comes from the second boiling cycle of sugarcane, and therefore has a darker color and a lower sugar content.

What is Blackstrap Molasses?

Blackstrap molasses comes from the third boiling cycle of sugarcane. Blackstrap molasses is the darkest in color and has the least amount of sugar, hence the last boiling state. Blackstrap molasses is also known to have health benefits such as being naturally rich in antioxidants, may help relieve constipation, and supports bone and hair health (according to Healthline).

What is the Difference in Molasses and Blackstrap Molasses?

The difference in molasses and blackstrap molasses is the sugar content. The sugar content is what creates the flavor and texture of each type of molasses. Different types of molasses are used in different recipes, so it's important not to substitute one for the other as it could result in a recipe fail.

Can You Use Molasses in Place of Blackstrap Molasses?

No, if a recipe calls for molasses, you should use the specific type of molasses it calls for. Because molasses has more sugar than blackstrap molasses, the recipe can suffer if you use one in place of the other.

Can You Use Blackstrap Molasses in Place of Molasses?

While blackstrap molasses has less sugar and molasses has more, they should not be substituted equally in recipes. The thickness is also different, which can result in a recipe fail as well.

What is the Best Organic Blackstrap Molasses to buy?

My favorite organic blackstrap molasses is by Wholesome. This is what I use in all my baked goods and recipes. I use organic blackstrap molasses in my Gingerbread Biscotti, Gingerbread Florentines, Lemon Ginger Molasses Cookies and so much more! I highly recommend trying this organic blackstrap molasses out for the upcoming holiday season.