Isomalt is a sugar replacement made from sugar alcohol and not real sugar. Isomalt is a sugar alcohol. It is low in calories and sugar-free but retains all the same structures as granulated sugar. Isomalt sugar is well-known for its excellent workability in sugar sculptures, sugar-free candy and chewing gum. Isomalt sugar should not be consumed in large quantities. However, it is a good ingredient to have on hand, regardless of whether you are entering a sugar sculpture contest or looking for ways that can elevate your plated desserts.
What is Isomalt made of?
Isomalt is made of glucose, mannitol and sorbitol. These are all sugar alcohols. Polyols (or sugar alcohol) are a type of carbohydrate with structures that look like alcohol and sugar.
These sugar alcohols consist of two different combinations of disaccharides. The first is glucose and sorbitol, and the second is glucose and Mannitol. Once the disaccharides have been mixed, they can be transformed into isomaltulose or hydrogenated to make Isomalt. Isomalt, therefore, is 50% glucose, 25% Mannitol and 25% Sorbitol.
Isomalt vs Sugar
Although they might look similar, Isomalt (and sugar) are quite different. Isomalt is sugar-free, so people with diabetes can eat it without causing tooth decay. Isomalt has half the sweetness of sugar and is much lower in calories.
Isomalt is more resistant to humidity and crystallization than sugar. Isomalt, unlike sugar, does not caramelize as easily. It can also keep its clear colour until it reaches 400° Fahrenheit.
How to Use Isomalt
Isomalt can be used to make intricate details and shapes when cooked correctly. There are many ways you can use Isomalt to make different confections that will enhance your offerings. These are some of the most popular uses for Isomalt.
- Sugar sculptures
- Cake decorations
- Sugar-free candy
- Sugar-free chocolates
- Chewing gum
Isomalt Benefits
Isomalt is a better choice than sugar for many reasons. These are just some of the many benefits that Isomalt offers over sugar.
- Crystallization resistance is higher
- Higher resistance to humidity
- Colourless to 400°F and can take food colouring
- It can be flavoured and remains odourless
- It is sugar-free and can easily be digested by diabetics
- It is tooth-friendly and does not cause tooth decay
- Remeltable to make new decorations or sugar work
Isomalt Substitutes
Although sugar may be used to replace sugar in confections like sugar sculptures and candy works, it is not recommended that Isomalt be used in baking as it is not intended to be consumed in large amounts.
Isomalt: Where can I buy it?
Isomalt can be purchased in speciality bakeries or online at retail restaurant websites. Make sure to weigh the pros and cons of buying isomalt crystals, isomalt sticks, or isomalt nuggets before making your purchase. Isomalt nibs and sticks are prepared for you. Isomalt Crystals are more expensive than isomalt nuts or isomalt sticks, but they must be properly cooked. After they have melted, you can add flavourings and food colouring to the isomalt sticks and nibs. Some even come pre-coloured for added convenience.
Isomalt FAQs
Isomalt sugar is a rare ingredient for new and non-bakers. This is why there are many questions about this sugar substitute. We have collected some questions about isomalt Sugar.
Is it edible?
It is okay to eat Isomalt in moderation. It is not recommended to consume large amounts of it. When baking bread or pastries, do not replace sugar with Isomalt. Isomalt can’t be consumed in large amounts because the lining of your intestine does not fully absorb sugar alcohols. This could cause stomach upset and cause distress to your customers.
Is Isomalt Safe?
If you use it properly, Isomalt can be used safely. Hot Isomalt, which is the same as hot sugar, should not be handled without caution. To protect your hands from any splashes or burns that may occur during cooking, many chefs recommend wearing 3 to 4 pairs of rubber gloves.
Is Isomalt Keto-friendly?
Isomalt can be used in ketogenic recipes. Many sugar alcohols are keto-friendly because they are low on the glucosemic index. This means they won’t spike blood sugar and cause ketosis.
Isomalt has a scent.
Isomalt is an odourless substitute for sugar. It is a sugar substitute that is odourless. This allows you to let your creations’ natural flavour and aroma shine through or add your flavours to the Isomalt for an enhanced experience.
Isomalt can change colours.
When it reaches 400° Fahrenheit, Isomalt begins to change colour or caramelize. Below that temperature, Isomalt remains colourless. Food colouring can be used to add colour to Isomalt.
Isomalt and Which Food Colors Can I Use?
It is possible to colour Isomalt using liquid, powder, or gel food colouring. When working with liquid or gel colourants, it is important to know that Isomalt can bubble up after the food colouring has been added.
Get all Food Colors
How should I handle Isomalt?
When handling Isomalt, especially when adding food colouring, make sure to use long spatulas and wear sleeves to protect your arms.
How do I store an Isomalt Creation?
You can store your isomalt creations or sugar sculptures in an airtight container for up to four days at room temperatures.
