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We’ve all experienced it: brown sugar that has gone hard. It isn’t very pleasant, and figuring out why this happens is not always easy.
Softening brown sugar is a simple process that can save you time and frustration in the kitchen. Whether you need it for a batch of chewy cookies, your favorite mint tea recipe, or homemade sugar scrub, softening brown sugar is the key to achieving the desired texture and flavor in your sweet treats.
Here are a few ways to soften it so you can use it again.
Why Does Brown Sugar Harden?
Brown sugar contains molasses, giving it a rich caramel flavor and moist texture. However, due to its high moisture content, brown sugar tends to harden when exposed to air. The moisture evaporates, leaving behind hardened sugar crystals.
Here are some additional factors that can contribute to sugar hardening:
- Moisture: Sugar can absorb moisture from high humidity or direct contact with water. When the moisture evaporates, sugar crystals can fuse together, causing hardening.
- Temperature: Temperature changes affect sugar’s moisture content. For instance, if sugar is stored in a warm place and then rapidly cooled, condensation may form, leading to moisture absorption and eventual hardening.
- Exposure to air: If sugar isn’t properly sealed or stored in an airtight container, exposure to air can cause moisture absorption and clumping, resulting in hardening.
Apple Slice
Yes, you can soften brown sugar with an apple slice. Just place a slice of fresh apple in an airtight container with the hardened sugar. Seal the container and let it sit for several hours or overnight until the sugar softens. This method really works!
In the Microwave
Cover the hardened brown sugar in a microwave-safe bowl with a damp paper towel or cloth. Microwave it in 15-20 seconds intervals, checking between until the sugar softens to your desired consistency.
A Bread Slice
Place a slice of fresh bread in an airtight container with the hardened brown sugar. Seal the container and let it sit for a few hours or overnight. The moisture from the bread will soften the sugar.
Oven
Preheat your oven to a low temperature (around 250°F or 120°C). Cover the hardened sugar in an oven-safe container with aluminum foil. Heat it in the oven for 5-10 minutes, checking frequently, until the sugar softens. Be careful not to overheat or melt the sugar.
Terra Cotta Brown Sugar Saver
Move your brown sugar into a tight-sealed container, then add a piece of terra cotta saver (referred to as terracotta disk). This method gently reintroduces moisture into the sugar, ensuring it softens up nicely and evenly.
Food Processor
You can use a food processor to mince the brown sugar into bits. The food processor will grind it back down to make it usable again. This is a quick and effective way to soften it again.
A Grater
Using the biggest holes of the grater, grate the sugar over a solid bowl or plate. Slow and steady is the key.
Ziplock Bag
Put your clumpy sugar into a ziplock bag and add a little bit of water. Release all the air, Seal the bag, and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, knead the sugar through the bag to evenly distribute the water and break up the clumps.
Homemade Brown Sugar Scrub
Made with natural ingredients, this homemade scrub is like a spa day for your skin, keeping it happy, healthy, and oh-so-radiant. Here’s a quick guide on how to create a homemade DIY Sugar Scrub.
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