Difference between White Sugar and Brown Sugar
When it comes to baking sweets one main ingredients is usually sugar. However there are a few types of sugar that can be used. White sugar and brown sugar are used for many types of recipes, however, most often when to baking recipes generally call for white sugar. Many people think that sugar is just sugar that it is all the same. This is not necessarily true. There is a marked difference when it comes to taste and texture of each sugar type.
What is the Difference?
When raw sugar is first formed from sugar cane it comes out looking a bit brown, the brown is a form of molasses. The raw sugar is bleached to take away the brown leaving white sugar. Brown sugar is made by adding back the molasses, about one teaspoon per cup of sugar. The taste of white sugar compared to brown sugar is easily noticed with just a small taste. Brown sugar has a sweeter, richer taste than white sugar. Textures are also different; white sugar is grainy and dry where as brown sugar is moist and clumps together.
Sugars in my Food
When you are baking something such as cookies or a pie recipes calls for sugar, meaning white sugar, if you wish to substitute with brown sugar you should be aware that it may spoil the taste of your cookies. Also, the coloration difference may greatly alter the way the baked goods will look once they are finished. The moistness of the brown sugar will make a great difference in how the outcome of the food will look. If you are substituting with brown sugar you should dry it out first so that the moisture does not ruin the consistency of the goods that you are baking.
Healthier Choice
When it comes to the nutritional value of sugar many people believe that brown sugar is better for you than white sugar. However, they are the same thing except that brown sugar has added molasses. While a little sugar now and then is not going to hurt you, using it in excess can be bad for you no matter what kind you use. Too much sugar can be very fattening and lead to many health problems. The right amount can make anyone smile and create wonderful memories for family and friends.
Summary
- Both Sugars are basically the same; brown sugar just has added molasses
- Substitution will cause differences in texture and taste
- Neither one is "healthier" than the other
Bon Appetit!
