Using Granulated Sugar (no molasses) Instead of Brown Sugar (packed)
Ratio
1:1
Good — works well with minor differences
Recipe Adjustment Notes
Works in a pinch but bakes drier and crisper with a paler colour — cookies spread less and lose their chew. Add 1 tsp molasses or honey per cup if you have any.
The Science Behind This Swap
Without molasses there is less moisture and acidity, so less caramel flavour, less browning, and a shorter-lived soft texture.
Measurement Variance Note
For 1 cup references, this ingredient can vary by about 8% across brands and measuring methods (184g-216g per cup). For the most reliable substitution result, measure by weight and test a half batch first.
How Granulated Sugar (no molasses) Compares for Brown Sugar (packed)
Quality rating: good. Works in a pinch but bakes drier and crisper with a paler colour — cookies spread less and lose their chew. Add 1 tsp molasses or honey per cup if you have any.