Mix 1 cup granulated sugar with 1/4 cup molasses to replace 1 cup packed brown sugar. In a pinch, plain granulated sugar works cup for cup, but you'll lose the molasses flavor and some moistness.
Ratios from university extension services and King Arthur Baking. Checked .
Brown sugar substitutes, best first
- For 1 cup packed brown sugar1 cup granulated sugar + 1/4 cup molasses (unsulphured)Best for: cookies, sauces, glazes
Mix well; this restores brown sugar's flavor and moisture (Colorado State).
- For 1 cup packed brown sugar1 cup granulated sugarBest for: when flavor isn't critical
Equal swap per Utah State, NMSU and Mississippi State; you lose the molasses flavor, color and moisture.
- For 1 cup light brown sugar1/2 cup dark brown sugar + 1/2 cup granulated sugarBest for: any recipe calling for light brown
Utah State Extension.
Why the swaps work
Brown sugar is white sugar coated with molasses, which adds moisture, caramel flavor, and a little acidity that reacts with baking soda.
Questions people ask
Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?
Yes, 1 cup for 1 cup packed; the result will be a bit less moist and less caramel-flavored.
How do I make light brown sugar from dark?
Combine equal parts dark brown sugar and granulated sugar (Utah State).
What can I substitute for brown sugar?
Mix 1 cup granulated sugar with 1/4 cup molasses to replace 1 cup packed brown sugar. In a pinch, plain granulated sugar works cup for cup, but you'll lose the molasses flavor and some moistness.
Sources
- Ingredient Substitutions, Fact Sheet 9.329 (Colorado State University Extension)
- Ingredient Substitution, FN 255 (Utah State University Extension)
- In a Pinch: Ingredient Substitution, Guide E-131 (New Mexico State University Extension)
- Ingredient Substitutions and Equivalents, P1690 (Mississippi State University Extension)
- The difference between baking soda and baking powder, plus substitutions (King Arthur Baking)