Erythritol

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol, one of the sweeteners the FDA says it permits as sugar substitutes. Oregon State University Extension describes it as a zero-calorie sugar alcohol.

It looks like white granulated sugar and is much less sweet, so it is often mixed with a high-intensity sweetener in sugar-free baking mixes. In cakes, cookies and brownies it provides the bulk and some of the tenderness that sugar gives, though it does not brown or caramelize like sugar. It can leave a cooling sensation on the tongue and may recrystallize in cold sauces and icings.

Powdered erythritol is helpful for smooth frostings and glazes.