Physicochemical Properties and Sensory Evaluation of Yanggaeng with Alternative Sweeteners and Cissus quadrangularis Powder

This study investigated the effects of alternative sweeteners, allulose (AL), stevia (ST), and xylose (XY), on the physicochemical, antioxidant, textural, and sensory properties of Yanggaeng fortified with Cissus quadrangularis (CQ) powder. Replacing sucrose (SU) with alternative sweeteners significantly affected the proximate composition and overall quality of Yanggaeng. Formulations containing AL, ST, or XY exhibited higher moisture retention and lower carbohydrate content than those containing SU. Colorimetric analysis revealed that Yanggaeng prepared with alternative sweeteners developed a darker coloration and greater browning intensity, likely due to enhanced Maillard reactions during heating. Among the sweeteners tested, AL showed the highest total phenolic content and relatively high antioxidant activity, suggesting potential functional advantages beyond sweetness. Textural analysis indicated that ST enhanced gel strength and elasticity even under high-moisture conditions, whereas AL produced a softer texture, which may be desirable for products requiring reduced firmness. Although consumer preference scores did not differ significantly across most sensory attributes, both ST and AL achieved acceptable overall profiles, with sweetness ratings comparable to those of SU. These findings suggest that CQ-enriched Yanggaeng sweetened with alternative sweeteners can be developed as a promising low-sugar desert option without compromising quality or consumer acceptability.