Sweetener | Vegetarian Vegan Diet (check processing)

Dark Brown Sugar

Saccharum officinarum (source plant for molasses) Allergen-Free
dark brown sugar

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Poaceae (for sugarcane)
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Sugarcane|Sugar beets|Molasses

The Forktionary Angle

"The secret to intensely moist and chewy baked goods, thanks to its higher molasses content which inhibits gluten development and retains moisture."

Definition

Granulated sugar with a high molasses content, giving it a deep caramel flavor, moist texture, and dark color.

Sensory Profile

TasteRich caramel, Molasses, Sweet
TextureMoist, Soft, Slightly granular
AromaMolasses, Caramel
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Moisture Retention

Its hygroscopic nature helps keep baked goods soft and moist longer.

Molasses Content

~6.5% molasses by weight, compared to light brown sugar's ~3.5%.

Storage Tip

Store in an airtight container with a slice of bread or a terra cotta disk to prevent hardening.

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 tbsp (13g)
Calories377 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0 g
Total Carbohydrate97.4 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars97.4 g
Calcium85 mg
Iron0.7 mg
Potassium162 mg

Chef’s Secret

If brown sugar has hardened, place it in a sealed container with a slice of bread or an apple wedge overnight to re-moisturize.

Substitutions

Best Match

Light Brown Sugar

1:1

Good for most applications, though flavor will be milder and color lighter.

Granulated Sugar + Molasses

1 cup sugar + 1 tbsp molasses

Perfect for mimicking flavor and moisture; mix well.

Maple Syrup

3/4 cup syrup per 1 cup brown sugar

For liquid applications or baking, adds distinct maple flavor and moisture. Adjust other liquids.

Coconut Sugar

1:1

Provides similar caramel notes and granular texture, slightly less moist.

Buying Guide

Look for soft, moist sugar. Store in an airtight container to prevent hardening.

Flavor Pairings

Apples cinnamon ginger coffee chocolate butter vanilla oats.

Recipes Using Dark Brown Sugar

North American Main Ingredient Preparation Food Processor Blender

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Snacks Low Cholesterol Easy Healthy

5 Minute Oatmeal Raisin Cookie Treat

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Occasion Fruit Time To Make Vegetarian

Alaskan Sourdough Blueberry Gingerbread

Warm up your kitchen with this irresistible Alaskan Sourdough Blueberry Gingerbread! Inspired by julesong's recipe #7020, this twist features the bright burst of fresh Alaskan blueberries, creating a unique and unforgettable gingerbread experience. Get ready for a comforting treat with the perfect balance of tangy sourdough, spicy ginger, and juicy blueberries. Perfect for a cozy evening or festive gathering!

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Desserts Main Ingredient Presentation Seasonal

Alton Brown's Bananas Foster

Indulge in this classic Bananas Foster recipe, perfected by culinary genius Alton Brown! This decadent dessert features perfectly caramelized bananas in a rich, spiced rum sauce – a fiery finale to any meal. Easy to follow instructions guide you to flambé perfection, whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice. Serve over ice cream, waffles, or crepes for an unforgettable treat!

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Time To Make Crock Pot Slow Cooker 4 Hours Or Less Desserts

Apple Pecan Crisp Crock Pot

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4 Hours Or Less Occasion Cuisine Pork

Applebee's Style Baby Back Ribs

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Stir Fry Chicken Low Calorie Low Saturated Fat

Asian Chicken And Scallions

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Quick Breads Breads Preparation Muffins

Bakery Style Bran Muffins

Craving that perfect bakery bran muffin? This recipe, adapted from Cook's Illustrated, delivers the ultimate crusty top and irresistible flavor you've been searching for! Forget those disappointing refrigerator recipes – this one uses the perfect ratio of white and wheat flours and bran, along with molasses and dark brown sugar for a rich, deep taste. A little extra effort yields unbelievably delicious results. Prepare to be amazed!

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Presentation Main Ingredient Fruit Preparation

Banana Bread Mans Banana Bread

A Key West legend comes to your kitchen! This recipe, inspired by the infamous Banana Man himself, delivers the most decadent, moist, and flavorful banana bread you'll ever taste. Made with real butter, ripe bananas, and a hint of rum, this special treat is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up. Get ready to experience banana bread bliss!

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Time To Make Desserts Inexpensive Main Ingredient

Banana Coffee Cake With Streusel Topping

Indulge in this moist and delicious Banana Coffee Cake, perfect for Christmas morning or any special occasion! This recipe features a rich, decadent cake base infused with the warm aroma of coffee and the sweetness of ripe bananas, topped with a crunchy, irresistible streusel topping. Serve warm with a steaming cup of coffee for the ultimate cozy breakfast treat.

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Weeknight Course Dietary Comfort Food

Barbecue Baked Beans

These irresistible Barbecue Baked Beans, adapted from Steven Raichlen's "Barbecue Bible," are a sweet and smoky masterpiece! Perfect for your next barbecue alongside ribs, these beans are bursting with flavor thanks to fresh garlic and ginger (don't skip them!). While the ingredient list is comprehensive, most items are pantry staples. Get ready for a crowd-pleasing side dish that's unbelievably easy to make.

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4 Hours Or Less Meat Cuisine Course

Barbecued Baby Back Ribs

Fall-off-the-bone tender baby back ribs, slow-simmered to perfection and then finished with a smoky-sweet BBQ sauce under the broiler. This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful ribs that are guaranteed to impress! Get ready for a rib feast!

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Time To Make Main Ingredient Number Of Servings Poultry

Barbecued Oven Baked Chicken Thighs

Fall-off-the-bone tender, juicy chicken thighs basking in a smoky-sweet BBQ sauce! This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner and tastes amazing served with fries and coleslaw. Get ready for a flavor explosion – the secret is French's mustard! (Other mustards just don't compare.) Customize the sweetness to your liking by adjusting the brown sugar. A quick and delicious meal the whole family will love!

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Course Chocolate Desserts Taste Mood

Big Thick Chocolate Chip Cookies

Craving intensely chewy, thick chocolate chip cookies that will melt in your mouth? This recipe delivers! Forget thin and crispy – these cookies are all about that gooey, decadent center. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these are guaranteed to become your new favorite.

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60 Minutes Or Less Hand Formed Cookies 3 Steps Or Less Cookies And Brownies

Big Super Nutty Peanut Butter Cookies

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Dietary Preparation Time To Make Oven

Double Chocolate Chip Cookies

Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience with these chewy, moist, and decadent double chocolate chip cookies! Loaded with two types of chocolate chips for an intense chocolate flavor, this recipe from Cuisine Magazine is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for cookie lovers of all ages!

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Equipment Course Oven Equipment

Giant Oatmeal Drop Cookies

Indulge in these surprisingly low-fat Giant Oatmeal Drop Cookies! These massive, chewy cookies are packed with oats, walnuts, and raisins, and are surprisingly light. Adapted from a Cooking Light recipe (March 1999), each cookie is approximately 196 calories. Perfect for a satisfying treat without the guilt!

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Appetizers Dietary Main Ingredient Refrigerator

Strawberry Grand Marnier Cheesecake Dip

Indulge in this dreamy Strawberry Grand Marnier Cheesecake Dip! A luscious blend of creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberries, and a hint of Grand Marnier, this no-bake dip is perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in. Easy to make and effortlessly elegant, it's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for the ultimate dessert dip experience!

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