Tell me a lesser secret: I am easily obsessed with sugar. From Muscovado to coconut sugar, I tried everything. But today we’re talking about sugar that deserves a little more spotlight than usual – demerara sugar. Yes, a thick, golden thing that appears to belong to chic craftsmanship alongside the espresso shot.
Now, I won’t say it will repair your life (though I argue it helped me make some suspicious cheek decisions), but for your baked goods, your morning coffee, and even some heartfelt recipes, this perfect caramel crisis will give you adventurously.
What Exactly Is Demerara Sugar?
Get the basics that don’t get in the way. Demerara sugar is a type of raw cane sugar with wide-colored crystals. In contrast to white sugar, it is treated to a minimum and retains natural molasses. Originally from Guyana (the name “Demerara” comes from the river), it can now be found in supermarkets around the world, usually in baking as if it weren’t a big deal.
Cool part? It’s not beautiful. The flavor of this light melas gives it a depth and makes it much more interesting than standard granules.
Why Is Everyone Suddenly Into It?
Okay, maybe not everyone is geeking out over sugar like I am, but demerara sugar has been popping up in more and more recipes lately. Food bloggers, bakers, and even baristas are singing its praises—and for good reason.
- Texture. Demerara sugar doesn’t melt as easily as white sugar, so it adds a satisfying crunch to toppings.
- Flavor. It brings subtle caramel and toffee notes without overpowering the dish.
- Looks. Let’s be real: it’s just plain sexy sprinkled on top of muffins.
How I Fell in Love With It (By Accident)
Picture this: it’s a rainy Sunday, I’m craving cookies but missing brown sugar. I dig through my pantry and find a jar of demerara sugar I bought because it looked “aesthetic.” I shrug and use it.
Game. Changer.
Those cookies came out with a crispy edge, chewy center, and a flavor that made me reconsider all my life choices. That’s when the love story began.
Sweet Ways to Use Demerara Sugar
Here’s where it gets fun. Demerara sugar is super versatile—you can swap it into loads of recipes or even invent your own sugar-spiked creations.
1. Sprinkle It on Muffins and Scones
Ever notice that bakery-style crunch on top of muffins? That’s likely demerara sugar doing its thing. Just sprinkle it on the batter before baking. Voilà—instant upgrade.
2. Stir It Into Coffee or Tea
I know everyone’s obsessed with oat milk lattes and matcha right now, but adding a spoonful of demerara sugar brings out warm, toasty flavors in hot drinks.
3. Caramelize Fruits Like a Pro
Slice some bananas, sprinkle demerara sugar, hit it with a kitchen torch or broil it for a couple of minutes. Boom—banana brûlée!
4. Crust for French Toast or Pancakes
Mix it with a little cinnamon and coat your French toast in it before frying. It crisps up like a dream.
Can You Bake With It?
Short answer: YES. Longer answer: mostly.
Some recipes can use demerara sugar instead of white or brown sugar, but it doesn’t melt that easily. Therefore, it is perfect for recipes where small textures are welcome, such as cookies, brooches, and covers.
One of my favorite hacks? Swap half of the sugar with Demerara and crumble. It turns out to be golden and crisp. The chef kisses.
Cocktail Game Strong: Demerara in Drinks
You didn’t think we were going to skip cocktails, did you? Demerara is a bartender’s secret weapon. Mixologists use demerara syrup—basically equal parts sugar and hot water stirred until dissolved—as a rich, flavorful sweetener.
It’s amazing in:
- Old Fashioneds
- Dark ‘n’ Stormy
- Whiskey Sours
- Rum Punch
Pro tip: keep a small jar of homemade syrup in the fridge. It lasts for weeks and makes you look like a cocktail genius at your next dinner party.
Is Demerara Sugar Healthier?
Now, a real conversation. Are you healthy? It’s not accurate. Sugar is sugar. However, Demerala is not refined and carries trace minerals such as calcium, iron and potassium. Don’t get too excited – it’s not a multivitamin.
That means it’s definitely a better choice than highly processed white sugar if you want to create small upgrades. Think about the difference between white bread and whole grains. It’s still bread, but it’s getting a little better.
Where to Buy It (Without Selling a Kidney)
It used to be that demerara was some fancy-pants specialty item. Now you can find it at most major grocery stores, usually near the raw and brown sugars. Some popular brands include:
- Sugar in the Raw
- Billington’s
- Tate & Lyle
Online retailers like Amazon, Thrive Market, and even Walmart carry it too.
Pro tip: buy it in bulk if you bake often. It doesn’t go bad, and your future cookies will thank you.
Demerara vs. Turbinado vs. Brown Sugar
This gets confusing, so let’s break it down:
- Demerara Sugar: Large crystals, light molasses flavor, slightly sticky.
- Turbinado Sugar: Similar, but slightly more processed and drier. Great for tea.
- Brown Sugar: Regular sugar with molasses added back in. Moist, clumpy, and ideal for chewy cookies.
They’re all cousins, really. Use them depending on the flavor and texture you want.
Can You Store It Forever?
Almost! Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place and it’ll last basically forever. If it clumps, just break it up with a spoon. Moisture is the enemy here—so no fridge!
A Fun DIY: Demerara Sugar Scrub
Yup, it’s not just edible—it’s spa-worthy. I make a killer exfoliating sugar scrub with demerara, coconut oil, and a few drops of lavender essential oil. Rub it on your hands or legs and rinse off for baby-soft skin. Just be careful—it makes the shower floor very slippery (learned that one the hard way).
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Hype?
Short answer? Totally.
Demerara sugar might not be the big name of the display like chocolate or cinnamon, however its the historical past actor that steals the scene whilst you least assume it. Whether youre sweetening up your coffee, leveling up your cookies, or impressing your pals with selfmade cocktails, this sugar is an easy (and delicious) upgrade.
Its affordable, accessible, and provides flavor, texture, and a hint of golden sparkle for your kitchen adventures. Whats now no longer to love?
Next time you`re on the store, toss a bag into your cart. Trust me—your destiny banana bread will thank you.
FAQs About Demerara Sugar
1. Can I use demerara sugar in place of brown sugar? Yes, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different—less moist, more crunchy.
2. Is demerara sugar vegan? Most brands are, but check the label to be sure. Some sugar is processed with bone char.
3. What’s the best way to make demerara syrup? Mix equal parts hot water and demerara sugar. Stir until dissolved. Done.
4. Can I bake a cake with only demerara sugar? You can, but the texture might be grainier. Try blending it first or mixing it with finer sugar.
5. Does demerara sugar expire? Not really! Just keep it dry and sealed. It’ll last for years without any issues.
