No-where did I state that rice syrup is "healthier than anything" and I am not just using it because it is 'in fashion'. In this recipe it serves a purpose. My sweeteners of choice are generally maple syrup or coconut sugar. This is a vegan blog so honey is not an option and would probably be too sweet anyway. Maple syrup is too thin for this recipe and doesn't have the gloopy texture needed. The brown rice syrup holds everything together, gives a perfect chew and isn't too sweet, plus it's flavour profile works perfectly. The only other ingredient that is vegan and would work is corn syrup which is infinitely more unhealthy than brown rice syrup, usually GMO and is also far sweeter. I personally choose not to consume it. If you don't like the recipe I have a few others that are brown rice syrup free or there are many more power ball type recipes out there that you could use.

Rice syrup is not healthier than anything, brown rice syrup's glycemic index is actually higher than that of table sugar, It has more calories as well, only because ts in fashion now doesn't mean its healthier.

wouldn't honey work instead? or just more maple syrup (which is actually much more healthier than all of those options)

Hi Majeda. It's a hard one to sub as it's the thick, gloopy, sticky texture of it that holds these balls together. Golden syrup would work if you have access to it and I think corn syrup would probably work although I haven't tried it so can't guarantee. Rice syrup is the healthiest option though.

Yes walnuts will work fine. They will be great with the coffee and chocolate flavours :0)