How can using an artificial sweetener instead of sugar affect a recipe?

American Diabetes Association

If you decide to use artificial sweeteners when baking or cooking, there are a few important things to know:

Baked products may be lighter in color because real sugar has a caramelizing/browning effect and artificial sweeteners do not.
Volume may be lower in cakes, muffins, and quick breads because artificial sweeteners do not have the same bulking ability as sugar.
Texture may be altered in some baked products, especially cookies.
Taste may be slightly altered if you are sensitive to the sweetener's aftertaste.
Cooking time of your baked goods may be slightly different when using artificial sweeteners.
Sugar naturally holds in moisture and increases keeping quality so baked products with the sugar removed will not keep as long.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

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Most Americans don't prepare meals from scratch, and many eat out frequently. Reconnecting with food by cooking it can improve not only taste but health. How you cook can make a difference not only to taste, but nutrition. Boiling broccoli or cabbage can destroy antioxidants. Microwaving or cooking on a griddle can preserve them. Stir-frying can be a good, quick way to prepare food too. Frozen and fresh vegetables have similar nutrient levels (not always similar taste). Canned foods do not. Some foods require adequate cooking time to ensure safety. If you think you don't have time to cook, a little planning can go a long way. Veggies may be pre-cut when time permits, and beans or pasta can be prepared in advance without loss of flavor or nutritional value. Many recipes may be modified to lower fat or sugar variations.

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How can using an artificial sweetener instead of sugar affect a recipe?

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