Turbinado sugar substitutes
Turbinado sugar substitutes — 6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Brown sugar
Same amount as the turbinado sugar
Similar sugar with different texture.
The best substitutes for turbinado sugar are brown sugar, raw sugar, or other natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, depending on the use.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- similar taste, different texture
- Best for —
- baking
Updated 26 Jul 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of turbinado sugar | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brown sugarbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Raw sugarbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 3 | Honeybaking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 4 | Maple syrupbaking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 5 | Coconut sugarbaking | Same amountYou'll taste it | You'll taste it |
| 6 | White sugarbaking | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
Brown sugar
similar taste, different texture
Similar sugar with different texture.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, cooking, beverages
Different texture, similar flavor.
Raw sugar
similar taste, different texture
Similar sugar with different texture.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, cooking, beverages
Different texture, similar flavor.
Honey
different taste and texture
Similar natural sweetener with different flavor.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, cooking, beverages
Different flavor, similar sweetness.
Maple syrup
different taste and texture
Similar natural sweetener with different flavor.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, cooking, beverages
Different flavor, similar sweetness.
Coconut sugar
different taste and texture
Similar natural sweetener with different flavor.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, cooking, beverages
Different flavor, similar sweetness.
White sugar
similar taste, different texture
Similar sugar with different color.
- Best for
- baking, desserts, cooking, beverages
Different color, similar sweetness.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use brown sugar instead of turbinado sugar?
Yes, brown sugar is a good substitute for turbinado sugar. It has similar flavor and can be used in most recipes that call for turbinado sugar.
What's the difference between turbinado sugar and brown sugar?
Turbinado sugar is partially refined with large crystals and light brown color, while brown sugar is more refined with smaller crystals and darker color. Both have similar flavor and can be used interchangeably.
Can I use raw sugar instead of turbinado sugar?
Yes, raw sugar can work as a substitute, though it may have a different texture. It has similar flavor and can be used in most recipes.
Why is turbinado sugar so popular in healthy baking?
Turbinado sugar is popular in healthy baking because it's less refined than white sugar and has a more natural flavor profile.
Tips for substituting turbinado sugar
6 tips- Turbinado sugar adds natural sweetness and texture to dishes
- Turbinado sugar can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
- Turbinado sugar pairs well with fruits, nuts, and spices
- Turbinado sugar works well in baking and desserts
- Turbinado sugar can be used to make energy bars and smoothies
- Store turbinado sugar in an airtight container