What can I substitute for brown sugar?
Running low on brown sugar? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.
About brown sugar
Brown sugar is refined white sugar combined with molasses, creating a moist, fine-grained sweetener. It has a warm caramel flavour and slightly sticky texture. In cooking and baking, brown sugar adds depth and richness while promoting moisture retention and browning in baked goods. Its molasses content also contributes to chewy textures in cookies and adds complexity to sauces and glazes.
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Dietary labels are general guidance based on typical composition. Not a guarantee — see disclaimer.
Best substitute
White sugar + molasses
Mix 1 cup white sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses for light brown sugar, or 2 tablespoons for dark.
Use 1 cup white sugar + 1 tbsp molasses for every 1 cup brown sugar.
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Alternative
Coconut sugar
Use 1 cup coconut sugar for every 1 cup brown sugar.
View Coconut sugar substitute guide →Dairy-freeVeganGluten-freeNut-free
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