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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)
Brown Sugar And Honey HAM GLAZE Recipe
FAQ
What can I put on ham if I don’t have brown sugar?
What can I add if I don’t have brown sugar?
What can I use instead of brown sugar DIY?
How much honey to replace brown sugar?
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
Swap the Sugar: You can use maple syrup, honey, or agave syrup in place of the brown sugar, if you prefer. You can also use a low carb brown sugar blend for a healthier option. Add some more spice. Add a bit of cinnamon, minced garlic, or ground cloves to your glaze for an extra burst of flavor.
What is the best sugar substitute?
Stevia, monk fruit, certain sugar alcohols, and allulose are much lower in calories than table sugar and do not significantly affect blood sugar levels, making them a smart alternative to refined sugar.
What can I substitute for Ham glaze?
Mix dry mustard powder with a bit of water to form a paste as a substitute. You can experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create variations of ham glaze. Here are a few ideas: Pineapple Brown Sugar Glaze: Mix in pineapple juice and crushed pineapple with the brown sugar for a tropical and fruity glaze.
Can you substitute white sugar for brown sugar?
Quite possibly the easiest sub for brown sugar is using granulated white sugar. For every cup of packed brown sugar, swap in 1 cup of white sugar. Just remember: Since brown sugar adds moisture to baked goods, you’ll notice a difference in texture (like your cookies being crisper).