Abstract: Fungal sweet-taste modifying protein variants (designated Honey Truffle Sweetener (HTS) protein variants), and polynucleotides encoding the protein variants are described. Specifically, Myd (HTS) protein variants with sweet taste modulation activity, and the cDNA encoding the same, are described, along with methods for isolating such cDNA and for isolating and expressing such proteins. Also disclosed are sweetening compositions which include the proteins of the invention, and methods to provide improved flavor to a product for oral administration.