Ingredients
June 6, 2024 By PastryClass

Invert Sugar: What It Is, How It Is Made and Used

Discover the versatility of invert sugar, a sweetener that elevates the texture and flavor of your dishes. Explore its definition, homemade preparation, and diverse uses in baking and cooking.
Invert Sugar: What It Is, How It Is Made and Used
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In the world of pastry and confectionery, "invert sugar" might sound like a term only for experts. But knowing about this sweet ingredient can improve your baking skills and add more depth to your cooking. Let's explore what invert sugar is, how it's made, and how you can use it in your kitchen.

Pierre Hermé

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What Is Invert Sugar?

Invert sugar is a type of sugar syrup made of glucose and fructose, two simple sugars found in many sweets. Unlike regular sugar (sucrose), which is a combination of glucose and fructose, invert sugar is made by breaking down sucrose into its individual parts through a process called hydrolysis.

What Is Invert Sugar Used For?

You might wonder why bother with invert sugar when regular sugar works fine. Invert sugar has unique qualities that improve both the texture and flavor of your desserts.

  • Texture Enhancement: Invert sugar has more moisture than regular sugar, making it great for keeping baked goods moist and tender for longer. This means your cakes, cookies, and pastries stay fresh even after a few days.
  • Flavor Enhancement: Invert sugar tastes slightly sweeter than regular sugar because of its glucose and fructose content. Plus, it reacts differently with other ingredients during cooking, giving your treats a richer, more complex flavor.

How to Make Invert Sugar?

While you can buy invert sugar, making it at home is simple and rewarding. You'll need just two ingredients: water and regular sugar. Here's how to do it:

Ingredients:

  • ✓ 200g granulated sugar
  • ✓ 100ml water

Process:

  1. Combine the sugar and water in a saucepan.
  2. Heat the mixture on medium, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  3. Bring it to a gentle boil and cook until it reaches 114°C on a pin thermometer.
  4. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

How to Store Invert Sugar?

Store your homemade invert sugar in a sealed container at room temperature, away from sunlight and moisture. It can last for several months if stored properly.

In summary, invert sugar isn't just another sweetener; it can take your desserts to the next level. Whether you're a professional pastry chef or a home baker, using invert sugar opens up endless possibilities for creating delicious treats with a perfect texture and flavor. So why not give it a try in your kitchen?

Want to Learn More?

Enroll new pastry skills, unleash your creativity, boost sales, enhance career opportunities, transition into an instructor role yourself, or simply discover a fresh passion. Learn with Cédric Grolet, Pierre Hermé, Ramon Moratò, Frank Haasnoot and more.

June 6, 2024 By PastryClass
Cédric Grolet
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Cédric Grolet

Pastry really matters if it brings back memories from the past, and at the same time, creates a new memory for the future.

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