1. Concept of corn syrup
Corn syrup, also known as corn syrup or corn honey, is a type of liquid syrup made from corn starch, containing Maltose and higher levels of Oligosaccharides. It prevents sugar crystallization, softens texture, adds viscosity, and retains moisture in food.
Corn syrup is commonly used in the confectionery industry, including mooncake making. When used in mooncake fillings, it blends with other ingredients to provide sweetness and prevent the filling and crust from becoming dry and hard. Thus, mooncakes become more delicious and easier to eat. However, excessive use can make the mooncakes overly sweet.

Many people often confuse invert sugar and corn syrup, thinking they are the same. In fact, these two types of sugar are different, although both consist of a mixture of Glucose and Fructose. They differ in mixing ratios and production processes, and corn syrup tends to have a higher Fructose content, resulting in a sweeter taste. In reality, some types of corn syrup are not made from corn but from cream of tartar.
2. Explained: Can corn syrup be used for making mooncakes?
Corn syrup being suitable for making mooncakes is a question that many baking enthusiasts are curious about and always seek answers to. If you're also questioning this, the answer is YES. Corn syrup is commonly used as an ingredient in mooncakes as well as other types of confectionery. So, feel free to purchase it and use it for your homemade mooncake recipe. Corn syrup can absolutely be used for making mooncakes!
3. Something to note when using corn syrup for making mooncakes
- When making mooncakes with corn syrup, only use an amount that is within the recommended dosage provided by the manufacturer; do not use it excessively based on personal preference. Overusing corn syrup can have adverse effects on the health of the consumer. To ensure safety for yourself and your loved ones, adhere to the recommended dosage of corn syrup as instructed on the packaging.
- Since each type of mooncake has a different recipe and not all recipes are printed on the packaging, experience is needed to determine the correct amount of corn syrup to use. This difference in the amount of corn syrup used contributes to the uniqueness of mooncake recipes among different brands or what is commonly referred to as the secret to making delicious mooncakes.
- Upon opening, it is advisable to use it promptly to avoid prolonged exposure.
- After use, store the product in cool, dry places and avoid direct sunlight.

4. Simple homemade corn syrup recipe
Corn syrup is often sold at baking stores and large supermarkets, so you won't have difficulty finding it. Some popular types of corn syrup for baking include: Daesang Korean corn syrup, Beksul, Essential Everyday corn syrup, etc. However, many people are concerned that store-bought corn syrup may be harmful to health or not made from 100% real corn, so there's a tendency to prefer making homemade corn syrup. If you share this inclination or haven't been able to purchase corn syrup for making mooncakes as the Mid-Autumn Festival approaches, Mytour.vn will guide you with the following simple recipe:

4.1. Ingredients and equipment needed for homemade corn syrup
Firstly, prepare the necessary ingredients as follows:
- Granulated sugar: 400g
- Filtered water: 260ml
- Sweet corn: 400g (kernels already separated)
- Salt: 2/8 teaspoon
- 1 spoon
- 1 plate
- 1 pot
- 1 strainer
4.2. Simple detailed method for making corn syrup
Then, follow these detailed 4 steps:
- Step 1: Put the separated corn kernels into a blender and blend them into a smooth mixture.
- Step 2: Pour the blended corn mixture into a pot, then add the sugar, water, and salt according to the proportions above, and bring to a boil. Once the mixture boils, reduce the heat and simmer for 1 hour – 1.5 hours or adjust the heat so that the liquid reduces to half, then turn off the heat.
- Step 3: Pour the boiled mixture into a thick cloth or strainer to separate the residue and liquid. Use a spoon to press against the strainer to filter out all the liquid. This is the finished corn syrup or corn syrup.
- Step 4: Let the corn syrup cool naturally before pouring it into a jar and storing it in the refrigerator for later use.
With useful information about corn syrup and detailed instructions on how to make simple corn syrup, Mytour.vn believes that this year, making homemade mooncakes will bring joy and unforgettable memories to your family. Wishing you a warm and cozy Lunar New Year reunion with your loved ones!
