The Secret to Storing Brown Sugar So It Stays Soft

Brown sugar is a delightful ingredient that adds moisture and a rich, caramel-like flavor to baked goods.

However, it’s not uncommon for brown sugar to harden over time, turning into a rock-hard lump that can be frustrating to work with.

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Fear not, for the secret to keeping your brown sugar soft is right around the corner! Let’s dive into the details.

Why Brown Sugar Hardens

Brown sugar contains molasses, which gives it its distinctive flavor and moisture. When exposed to air, the moisture in the sugar evaporates, causing the sugar crystals to dry out and harden.

The loss of moisture is the primary reason for this change in texture. Brown sugar contains about 5% water, and it is this that evaporates, turning the sugar hard.

If the sugar isn’t stored properly, the hardening process can happen quickly.

The Best Way to Store Brown Sugar

To prevent brown sugar from hardening, it’s crucial to store it in an airtight container. Here are some popular storage options.

Glass Jars

Glass jars with tight-fitting lids create a barrier against air, helping to maintain the moisture in the sugar.

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You can easily see how much sugar you have left, which is helpful for planning your baking sessions.

Pick a clean, dry glass jar with a lid that seals well. Mason jars or any container with a rubber seal work great.

Gently pack the brown sugar into the jar. Don’t press it down too hard, as you want to preserve its light, fluffy texture.

Once filled, tightly seal the lid to block any air from entering. This is essential to prevent hardening.

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Keep the jar in a pantry or cupboard, away from direct sunlight and not close to any sources that can radiate heat. The biggest one being your stove.

Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as this can lead to moisture loss.

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If you have no jars on hand, plastic containers are functional if sealed tightly, ensuring an airtight environment.

Alternatively, ziploc bags are a quick and convenient option. Just remove as much air as possible before sealing.

How Long Brown Sugar Lasts

When stored properly in an airtight container, brown sugar can last for an extended period, often up to 2 years or even longer.

However, it’s essential to check for any signs of moisture loss or hardening, which can occur if the container isn’t sealed properly.

Always ensure that your brown sugar is kept in a cool, dry place to maximize its shelf life.

What to Do If Brown Sugar Hardens

Don’t panic if your brown sugar has hardened. There are two simple quick fix methods to restore its softness.

Microwave Method

Place the brown sugar in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel, and microwave for 30-60 seconds. Let it sit for a minute before checking for softness.

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Oven Method

Place the hard sugar in an oven-safe bowl and warm it in a 250 degree oven, checking every couple of minutes and crumbling with a fork until the sugar is soft, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to melt it.

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Caution: The sugar will be hot.

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Adding Moisture To The Container

The following are not quick fix methods, but rather will take 24 hours or longer to soften your brown sugar.

Add a slice of bread to the container of brown sugar. Within 24 hours the brown sugar will become soft and ready to use again.

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Caution: Don’t forget to remove the slice of bread after sugar softens to prevent risk of mold or spoilage.

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Add two or three plump marshmallows to the sealed container. As with bread, in about 24 hours the sugar should be soft once again.

Alternatively you can use Terracotta. Simply soak a piece of terracotta in water for about 20 minutes, then place it in an airtight container with the dried-out brown sugar lump. 

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In about a day, the terracotta revives the brown sugar and prevents it from lumping up again by maintaining an ideal moisture level.

The great thing about this method, is you can permanently leave the terracotta inside the container to stop the sugar from hardening in the first place. Every now again check your make sure the terracotta piece has not dried out.

Americas Test Kitchen offers two methods that include using a coffee grinder and a box grater.

They say that the coffee grinder is perfect for quickly breaking up those hard clumps by placing a small amount equal to 1/4 cup of hardened brown sugar into the grinder at a time.

With the box grater, just run the block of sugar along the larger holes of the grater to break down the sugar into a softened, usable state.

In Conclusion

Prevention is always better than cure. By taking a few simple steps, you can prevent your brown sugar from hardening in the first place.

By following the methods mentioned and understanding how to store your brown sugar correctly, you can maintain its soft, delightful texture and enjoy its sweet benefits in your recipes for years to come.

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Read More Here About Brown Sugar

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Try These Brown Sugar Recipes

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