How to soften hard Brown Sugar

How to soften hard Brown Sugar

Brown sugar used to be an unrefined or partially refined soft sugar consisting of sugar crystals with some residual molasses content, but these days most brown sugar simply has molasses added to refined white sugar.

The amount of molasses added determines the color and flavor of the brown sugar. Light brown sugar has a higher proportion of white sugar and a milder flavor, while dark brown sugar has a higher proportion of molasses and a stronger flavor.

Why do you need to use brown sugar?

Brown sugar is used in a variety of recipes, including baked goods, sauces, and glazes. It is also used as a sweetener in coffee and tea.

Because of the molasses, brown sugar has a richer, more complex flavor than white sugar and adds a deeper color to baked goods.

Brown sugar is also more moist than white sugar, which helps keep baked goods soft and chewy.

Looking for some new ideas? Try making brown sugar cookie dough truffles, brown sugar caramel sauce, or brown sugar banana bread.

Can you substitute white sugar for brown sugar?

While it is possible to substitute white sugar for brown sugar in some recipes, the results may not be the same. Brown sugar has a higher moisture content, which affects texture, and its richer flavor can also change the taste of baked goods.

If you must substitute, you may need to add a little extra liquid or fat to compensate for the missing moisture.

Favorite recipes featuring brown sugar

• Banana Bread with Sour Cream
• Award-Winning Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Lemon Crinkle Cookies with Brown Sugar

Why does brown sugar get hard?

The added moisture in brown sugar can evaporate over time, causing it to harden, especially when exposed to air or heat. Brown sugar also becomes harder as the molasses begins to crystallize.

How do you keep brown sugar from hardening?

Store brown sugar in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Ideally, purchase only the amount you plan to use within a few months.

What is the best way to soften hard brown sugar?

Microwave method

“The easiest way to soften a hard chunk of brown sugar is to place it in a bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave the sugar for 20-second intervals until it softens.”

This is the quickest method. Stir and microwave again in short intervals if necessary, being careful not to overheat.

Oven method

Preheat oven to 250°F. Place the sugar in an oven-safe bowl and bake for 5–10 minutes, checking frequently. Remove as soon as it softens.

Bread or apple method

“Simply put a slice of fresh bread in with the brown sugar overnight. The next morning the sugar is soft and the bread is hard.”

Place a slice of bread or a few apple slices in the container, seal tightly, and leave for 24 hours. Remove afterward and reseal the container.

Terra cotta method

Place a clean, food-safe terra cotta piece in the container with the brown sugar. Seal tightly and let sit for 24 hours. Many people keep a terra cotta piece in the container continuously to slow hardening.

What if these tips don’t work?

Add a few drops of water or honey and stir until softened, or break the sugar apart using a food processor or blender.