May I borrow a cup of agave nectar?

The day may not be far off when a neighbor wanders over to ask this very question. More and more, popularity is growing for agave nectar, a natural liquid sweetener made from the agave plant (yes, the same plant that provides an equally popular libation called tequila).

Unlike good ol’ sugar, agave nectar has a low glycemic effect and anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it a great choice for diabetics with a sweet tooth.

Recently, we hosted a lively group from the San Francisco Ballet, who presented us with an interesting cooking challenge for their Sumptuous Small Plates party.

The majority of attendees would be diabetic and were only interested in learning to cook desserts. The gang here at Parties That Cook just can’t turn down a good challenge, and began crafting a fully customized menu of diabetic-friendly dessert recipes.

After a week of recipe testing in the office, we earmarked our favorite sinfully delicious concoctions such as Orange Almond Carrot Cake, made with a diabetic-friendly almond flour instead of white flour, and Strawberries with Chocolate Balsamic Reduction, cleverly spiked with a star anise pod and garnished with fresh mint.

Our guests from the San Francisco Ballet were equally enamored with the magnificent spread of diabetic-friendly sweets they learned to make. The favorite sweet treat of the class was our Hazelnut and Chocolate Gianduja Mousse with Frangelico Whipped Cream, a smooth and rich, yet light mousse that incorporates our new friend, agave nectar.

• Recipe for Hazelnut and Chocolate Gianduja Mousse with Frangelico Whipped Cream

Please pass the agave nectar… how to substitute in recipes:

• Replace 1 cup sugar with ¾ cup of Agave syrup

• Reduce recipe liquids 1/3 and lower oven temperature 25 degrees