Glycerine/ˈɡlɪsərɪn/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Sweet Thickener Glycerine adds sweetness and a thick, smooth texture in foods. Adding glycerine can make your homemade ice cream creamier. Pro Tip 2/3Medicinal Moisture Glycerine helps to retain moisture, useful in cough syrups and ointments. The cough syrup has glycerine to soothe dry throats. Pro Tip 3/3Baking Ingredient In baking, glycerine can help keep cakes moist for longer. Glycerine was the secret to her moist cupcakes.