What's the Best Substitute for Light Brown Sugar?
Whether you're out of Light Brown Sugar or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Refined sugar with molasses added for moisture and flavor, used in baking and cooking In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for light brown sugar are dark brown sugar, white sugar with molasses, or coconut sugar depending on the recipe.
Best Substitutes for Light Brown Sugar
Dark Brown Sugar
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- baking
- cooking
- desserts
- sauces
Description
Brown sugar with more molasses for deeper flavor and color
Darker color and stronger molasses flavor. Use in equal amounts.
White Sugar + Molasses
Ratio
1 cup light brown sugar = 1 cup white sugar + 1 tbsp molasses
Best For
- baking
- cooking
- desserts
- sauces
Description
Mix white sugar with molasses for similar flavor and texture
Mix white sugar with molasses until well combined. Adjust molasses to taste.
Coconut Sugar
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- baking
- cooking
- desserts
- healthy alternatives
Description
Natural sweetener with similar color and flavor
Similar color and flavor. May need to adjust liquid amounts in recipes.
Turbinado Sugar
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- baking
- cooking
- desserts
- sauces
Description
Raw sugar with similar color and flavor
Similar color and flavor. May need to adjust liquid amounts in recipes.
Muscovado Sugar
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- baking
- cooking
- desserts
- sauces
Description
Unrefined sugar with similar color and flavor
Similar color and flavor. May need to adjust liquid amounts in recipes.
White Sugar
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- baking
- cooking
- desserts
- emergency substitution
Description
Refined sugar without molasses
No molasses flavor or color. Use in equal amounts.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Light Brown Sugar, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Light brown sugar is perfect for making cookies and cakes
Great for making caramel and butterscotch sauces
Use in marinades and glazes for meats
Light brown sugar adds moisture and flavor to baked goods
Store in an airtight container to prevent hardening
Light brown sugar pairs well with cinnamon, vanilla, and nuts
Perfect for making brown sugar frosting and glazes
Great for making sweet and savory dishes
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications