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Finding a brown sugar substitute can feel like a daunting task. Comprised of granulated sugar and molasses, this distinctly flavored sweetener adds softness, moistness, and richness to desserts. Brown sugar also brings its signature depth of flavor to savory dishes, like glazed ham and barbecue sauce.
While anyone who likes to bake or BBQ should have a bag of brown sugar in the cupboard, there are alternatives that get remarkably close to the real thing. Before we get into those swaps, there are two types of brown sugar you’ll find at the grocery store:
White sugar plus molasses. A combination of white sugar and molasses is your best bet for a brown sugar substitute, as that’s exactly what brown sugar is made of (1). … White sugar plus maple syrup. … Coconut sugar. … Honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. … Raw sugars. … Muscovado sugar. … Plain white sugar. … The bottom line.
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White sugar plus molasses. A combination of white sugar and molasses is your best bet for a brown sugar substitute, as that’s exactly what brown sugar is made of (1). …
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White sugar plus maple syrup. …
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Coconut sugar. …
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Honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. …
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Raw sugars. …
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Muscovado sugar. …
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Plain white sugar. …
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The bottom line.
Light vs. dark brown sugar:
Molasses gives brown sugar a deep flavor and color, as well as a higher moisture content than standard white sugar (which can cause that irritating clumping). The molasses content is what distinguishes light brown sugar (3–4% molasses), from dark brown sugar (6–10% molasses).
Can light and dark brown sugar be used interchangeably? Pretty much, though they present slight nuances in flavor. “Light brown sugar has a milder caramel flavor,” writes Epi staffer Zoe Denenberg. “It adds fluffiness and moisture to chocolate chip cookies and pecan pie. You’ll find dark brown sugar in both sweet and savory recipes where a more prominent molasses flavor is desired, including banana muffins, gingerbread cookies, and barbecue sauce.” You may also notice color variations in the final baked goods.
You can substitute light brown sugar for dark brown sugar (and vice versa) in a 1:1 ratio. But for even more precise results, consider the following alterations: If you’re out of light brown sugar, but don’t want the stronger flavor that comes with using all dark, substitute a combination of equal parts dark brown and white sugar. If you’re out of dark brown sugar, add 1 Tbsp. molasses per cup of light brown sugar for a deeper, richer substitute.
Domino Dark Brown Sugar, 1 lb (Pack of 3)
EASY BROWN SUGAR MEATLOAF
FAQ
What can I add if I don’t have brown sugar?
What can I use instead of brown sugar DIY?
How much white sugar to replace brown sugar?
Can you use a sugar substitute for meatloaf glaze?
Yes, you can use a sugar alternative like maple syrup or honey. However, keep in mind that this might slightly alter the taste and texture of the glaze. What is meatloaf glaze made of? Meatloaf glaze is usually made of ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
Can one substitute brown sugar for white sugar in a brownie recipe?
In most baking recipes, you can substitute brown sugar for white sugar in the same proportion. So, if your recipe includes one cup white sugar, you may substitute it for one cup brown sugar. Others ingredients to replace one cup of white or brown sugar can be: 3/4 cup of honey, or 3/4 cups of maple syrup, 2/3 cup of agave or one teaspoon stevia.
What can I use instead of meatloaf?
Use whichever veggies you and your family prefer. Add some brown sugar to the meat mixture, or nix the sugar in the glaze altogether. You can even use ground turkey or pork if you want to switch things up from the classic ground beef meatloaf!
Can you substitute breadcrumbs for meatloaf?
Breadcrumbs are an essential binding agent in any classic meatloaf recipe, but there are plenty of substitutions that you can try! If you’re worried about the gluten, you’re welcome to use gluten free breadcrumbs instead. And yes, you also have the option to make this healthy meatloaf recipe with oats if you’d like.