How to Make Your Own Brown Sugar – Easy Homemade Recipe

Learning how to make brown sugar at home is incredibly simple and requires just two simple ingredients: granulated sugar and molasses. 

This homemade brown sugar recipe will not only saves you a trip to the store but also allows you to control the flavor and freshness of your brown sugar. 

Brown sugar is a versatile ingredient used in sweet and savory recipes from dessert recipes to barbecue sauce.

For more helpful kitchen hacks, be sure to check out our cooking tips. 

What is the difference between brown sugar and white sugar?

Brown sugar and white granulated sugar differ mainly in their molasses content.

Brown sugar contains molasses, giving it a richer flavor, higher moisture content, and a darker color, making it ideal for recipes needing a deeper taste and softer texture.

White sugar, on the other hand, has no molasses, resulting in a neutral flavor, lower moisture content, and a crispier texture.

What does brown sugar do for baking?

In baking, brown sugar adds moisture and contributes to a softer, chewier texture in baked goods due to its molasses content. The molasses adds a richer, more complex flavor, and helps to deepen the color of the finished product. The caramel-like flavor is perfect for recipes like cookies, cakes, and muffins.

How to Make Brown Sugar

Start with 1 cup of sugar and:

• For light brown sugar add 1 tablespoon of molasses
• For dark brown sugar add 2 tablespoons molasses

Easy Steps

Place the granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Pour the molasses over the sugar.

Use a fork or even your hands to mix the sugar and molasses together. The molasses will gradually incorporate into the sugar, creating a uniform brown color.

Once the sugar and molasses are fully combined, transfer your homemade brown sugar to an airtight container and store in a cool, dark place. 

Homemade brown sugar can last indefinitely with proper storage, but for the best quality, it is recommended to use it within six months. 

How to soften brown sugar?

To soften brown sugar, you can microwave it with a damp paper towel for 20-30 seconds. A soaked terra cotta disc placed in the container also helps maintain moisture and keep the sugar soft.

Brown Sugar Saver

This food-safe terracotta brown sugar keeper softens hard brown sugar. All you have to do is soak the disc in water, pat it dry, and store it in your brown sugar.

$8.85

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