Honey

Honey is a natural sugar syrup consisting largely of the simple sugars glucose and fructose, plus other compounds that give it its flavor. Honeys vary considerably in flavor and color, depending on their source. Flavor is the major reason for using honey, especially as it can be expensive.

Because honey contains invert sugar, it helps retain moisture in baked goods. Like molasses, it contains acid, which means it can be used with baking soda as a leavening.