Using Turbinado or Demerara Sugar Instead of Brown Sugar (packed)

Reviewed by the CupOrGram Editorial TeamSources: King Arthur Baking, USDA FoodData CentralMethodology
Ratio
1:1
Good — works well with minor differences

Recipe Adjustment Notes

Similar caramel notes but large, dry crystals that may not fully dissolve in cookie dough. Pulse briefly in a blender for smoother results.

The Science Behind This Swap

Raw sugars keep a thin coat of molasses on coarse crystals — the flavour is there, the moisture is not.

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 Turbinado or Demerara Sugar Compares for Brown Sugar (packed)

Quality rating: good. Similar caramel notes but large, dry crystals that may not fully dissolve in cookie dough. Pulse briefly in a blender for smoother results.

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