Using Granulated Sugar Instead of Caster Sugar

Reviewed by the CupOrGram Editorial TeamSources: King Arthur Baking, USDA FoodData CentralMethodology
Ratio
1:1 by weight
Excellent — nearly identical results

Recipe Adjustment Notes

Works in almost everything. For meringues and delicate sponges, blitz granulated in a blender for 10-15 seconds first to approximate the finer crystal.

The Science Behind This Swap

Chemically identical sucrose; only crystal size differs. Coarser crystals dissolve slower, which can leave speckled meringue and slightly coarser crumb.

Measurement Variance Note

For 1 cup references, this ingredient can vary by about 8% across brands and measuring methods (175g-205g per cup). For the most reliable substitution result, measure by weight and test a half batch first.

How Granulated Sugar Compares for Caster Sugar

Quality rating: excellent. Works in almost everything. For meringues and delicate sponges, blitz granulated in a blender for 10-15 seconds first to approximate the finer crystal.

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