Light brown sugar substitutes
Light brown sugar substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Dark brown sugar
Same amount as the light brown sugar
Brown sugar with more molasses for deeper flavor and color.
The best substitutes for light brown sugar are dark brown sugar, white sugar with molasses, or coconut sugar depending on the recipe.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of light brown sugar | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dark brown sugarbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | White sugar + molassesbaking | 1 cup white sugar + 1 tbsp molasses per 1 cup light brown sugarWorks | Works |
| 3 | Coconut sugarbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Turbinado sugarbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Muscovado sugarbaking | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 6 | White sugarbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Dark brown sugar
different taste, similar texture
Brown sugar with more molasses for deeper flavor and color.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, desserts, sauces
Darker color and stronger molasses flavor. Use in equal amounts.
White sugar + molasses
similar taste and texture
Mix white sugar with molasses for similar flavor and texture.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, desserts, sauces
Mix white sugar with molasses until well combined. Adjust molasses to taste.
Coconut sugar
similar taste and texture
Natural sweetener with similar color and flavor.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, desserts, healthy alternatives
Similar color and flavor. May need to adjust liquid amounts in recipes.
Turbinado sugar
similar taste and texture
Raw sugar with similar color and flavor.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, desserts, sauces
Similar color and flavor. May need to adjust liquid amounts in recipes.
Muscovado sugar
similar taste and texture
Unrefined sugar with similar color and flavor.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, desserts, sauces
Similar color and flavor. May need to adjust liquid amounts in recipes.
White sugar
different taste, similar texture
Refined sugar without molasses.
- Best for
- baking, cooking, desserts, emergency substitution
No molasses flavor or color. Use in equal amounts.
Questions
4 questionsWhat's the difference between light and dark brown sugar?
Light brown sugar has less molasses than dark brown sugar, giving it a lighter color and milder flavor. Dark brown sugar has more molasses and a stronger flavor.
Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?
Yes, dark brown sugar works as a substitute, though it has a stronger molasses flavor and darker color. It's good for most applications.
How do I make light brown sugar at home?
Mix 1 cup white sugar with 1 tablespoon molasses until well combined. Adjust molasses amount to taste.
Can I use white sugar instead of light brown sugar?
Yes, white sugar works as a substitute, though it won't have the molasses flavor or color. It's good for emergency substitution.
Tips for substituting light brown sugar
8 tips- Light brown sugar is good 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
- Good for making brown sugar frosting and glazes
- Great for making sweet and savory dishes