How to Substitute Light Brown Sugar for Dark Brown Sugar

Molasses gives brown sugar its color and flavor.

If you think that brown sugar is healthier for you because it is less refined than white sugar, you may be surprised to learn how brown sugar is made. Granulated table sugar is made by extracting the juice from sugar cane, or sugar beets, and converting it to crystals. To make brown sugar, molasses---the syrup from sugar cane---is sprayed onto the white sugar crystals. The more molasses used, the darker the brown sugar. Although the molasses changes the flavor, according to Penn State University Health Services, brown sugar does not have any nutritional advantage as compared to white sugar.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring cup
• Molasses (optional)

Instructions

1. Check the recipe to determine the amount of dark brown sugar required.

2. Measure an equal amount of light brown sugar for the recipe. Although substituting light brown sugar for dark brown sugar alters the flavor and appearance of the product, it does not affect texture or baking time.

3. Follow the remaining instructions in the recipe for combining other ingredients and baking or cooking.

Tips & Warnings

• Measure brown sugar by packing it tightly in the measuring cup with a spoon or spatula. Scoop the sugar from the cup to add to recipes.

• To create dark brown sugar from light brown sugar, add 1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of light brown sugar. This may alter the texture as it adds more moisture to the recipe.

References

• Penn State University Health Services: Sugar: Is It Bad For You
• University of Illinois Extension: FAQ About Brown Sugar
• joy of baking: Sugars
• cdkitchen: Brown Sugar Substitute