Sweetener | Vegetarian Gluten Free

Sugar

Sucrose Allergen-Free
sugar

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Poaceae (sugar cane) or Amaranthaceae (sugar beet)
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Sugar cane or sugar beets

The Forktionary Angle

"From balancing savory dishes to perfecting pastry, explore how sugar's chemical properties transform texture, flavor, and shelf-life in the kitchen."

Definition

A sweet crystalline carbohydrate, typically derived from sugar cane or sugar beets, used as a primary sweetener in food and beverages.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet
TextureCrystalline, granular, dissolved (liquid)
AromaNeutral, subtle caramelization when heated
AcidityNeutral

Technical Metrics

Browning Point (Caramelization)

320°F (160°C)

Primary Function in Baking

Sweetening, tenderizing, browning

Solubility in Water

180g per 100ml (20°C)

Nutrition Facts

Per 4g (1 tsp)
Calories400 kcal
Total Fat0 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0 g
Total Carbohydrate100 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars100 g
Calcium1 mg
Iron0.01 mg
Potassium2 mg

Chef’s Secret

To prevent crystallization when making syrups or candies, add a pinch of cream of tartar or a few drops of lemon juice to acidify the solution.

Substitutions

Best Match

Honey

1:0.75 (adjust liquid)

Provides sweetness and moisture, adds distinct flavor, browns faster.

Maple Syrup

1:0.75 (adjust liquid)

Natural sweetener, distinct flavor, good for baking and beverages.

Agave Nectar

1:0.66

Sweeter than sugar, liquid, good for cold beverages and sauces.

Stevia (granulated)

1:1

Calorie-free, intense sweetness, can have an aftertaste.

Buying Guide

For baking, use fine granulated sugar. For health, consider less refined sugars like turbinado or coconut sugar sparingly.

Flavor Pairings

Coffee tea fruits baked goods chocolate vanilla cinnamon citrus.

Recipes Using Sugar

4 Hours Or Less Preparation Rolls Biscuits Breads

2 Hour Buns

These irresistible dinner rolls are worth every minute of the 2-hour process! Our perfected recipe yields incredibly soft and fluffy buns, ideal for any meal. Perfect as is, or get creative with chili cheese or hot dog fillings for a fun twist. Easy to follow instructions guide you to baking perfection!

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For 1 Or 2 Beverages Low In Something Low Sodium

2Bleu Cups Of Chocolate Lava Please

Indulge in pure chocolate heaven with this decadent hot chocolate recipe! Imagine a rich, velvety waterfall of warm chocolate cascading over your tongue, a truly unforgettable experience. This intensely flavorful, intensely *hot* drinking chocolate is unlike anything you've ever tasted. Created by bird for buddha, this recipe is divine and dangerously addictive. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special treat.

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Dietary Beginner Cook Low In Something Inexpensive

2Bleu's Sweet Mustard Sauce For Pretzels And More

Elevate your pretzels, burgers, hot dogs, and salads with this unbelievably delicious sweet mustard dip! This recipe, inspired by user reviews, is oil-free for a lighter, healthier option that still boasts incredible flavor. Perfect for game day, parties, or a quick weeknight snack, this dip will keep for up to two months in the refrigerator. Try it with recipe #252656 or recipe #295738 for a truly unforgettable culinary experience! #sweetmustard #pretzeldip #dipsauce #gameday #easyrecipe #oilfree

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30 Minutes Or Less Occasion Low In Something Seasonal

Asparagus Nut Stir Fry

This vibrant Asparagus Nut Stir-Fry explodes with flavor! A quick and healthy recipe (ready in 20 minutes!), perfect for a weeknight meal. Crisp-tender asparagus and sweet red peppers are tossed with crunchy walnuts, fragrant ginger, and a savory soy sauce glaze. Inspired by Taste of Home magazine, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Desserts Low Sodium Biscotti Gifts

Aunt Dunette's Italian Anise Biscotti

A generations-old family recipe passed down from my Italian great-great-aunt! These irresistible anise-flavored biscotti are perfect for dunking in coffee or enjoying on their own. Crisp, subtly sweet, and incredibly aromatic, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Easy to make and keeps wonderfully for weeks, making it ideal for gifting or enjoying throughout the holiday season.

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Weeknight Low In Something Time To Make Dietary

Aunt Fannie's Summer Squash Casserole

A taste of summer sunshine! This comforting and flavorful summer squash casserole is a family favorite, bursting with the delicious taste of fresh summer squash. A treasured recipe passed down through generations, this dish is easy to make and perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or a cozy weeknight meal. Get ready for colossal summer flavor!

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60 Minutes Or Less Number Of Servings Main Ingredient Preparation

Aunt Helens Pecan Pie

This isn't your grandma's pecan pie! Aunt Helen's recipe boasts a deliciously unique twist – it's delightfully less sweet than traditional pecan pies, using about half the sugar. A family heirloom recipe, this pie delivers rich pecan flavor without the cloying sweetness. Get ready for rave reviews! The filling should have a slight jiggle in the center when finished, ensuring a perfect balance of set and gooey texture. Baking time may vary depending on your oven; see instructions for details.

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Occasion Cakes Course Preparation

Aunt Isabel's Bishop's Cake

This treasured recipe, passed down from Aunt Isabel (born 1900), is a delicious and slightly dense fruitcake perfect for Christmas. A true Methodist tradition, this updated recipe boasts a rich, moist texture, studded with dates, pecans, cherries, and decadent chocolate chips. Learn from my baking mishaps (and triumphs!) to create this unforgettable cake, thinly sliced and shared with loved ones. See the photos for visual inspiration!

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Time To Make Course Low Protein Fruit

Aunt Mary's Apple Cake

Indulge in Aunt Mary's legendary Hungarian Apple Cake, a moist and delightful treat passed down through generations! This recipe, from a family with roots in Hungary, delivers a taste of old-world baking with a surprising modern twist. Get ready for incredibly tender crumbs and the warm spice of apples – a perfect dessert for any occasion.

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Low Sodium Dietary Low Sodium Healthy

Aunt Rosella's Banana Salad

Step back in time with this vintage banana salad recipe, straight from my mom's 1983 cookbook! Aunt Rosella's secret family recipe delivers a delightful sweet and tangy treat featuring perfectly ripe bananas. This easy-to-make salad is a nostalgic trip back to childhood, perfect for potlucks, brunches, or a simple weeknight dessert. Get ready to experience a burst of creamy, peanutty goodness!

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Low Protein Course Inexpensive Number Of Servings

Aunt Rosie's Eggless Raisin Cake

This comforting eggless raisin cake recipe is a cherished family heirloom, passed down from Hilma Murphy. Warm, gooey, and bursting with raisin flavor, this easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion. A true taste of nostalgia, it's guaranteed to become a new favorite in your kitchen! Originally from Hilma Murphy (a cherished friend's mother), this recipe evokes happy memories and delivers a deliciously moist and satisfying cake every time.

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Cuisine Desserts Preparation Cuisine

Authentic Black Forest Cake Schwarzwald Kirsch Kuchen

Indulge in the true taste of Germany with this authentic Black Forest Cake recipe! Unlike its overly sweet North American counterparts, this Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte boasts a sophisticated balance of deep, rich flavors and a delightful kick of Kirsch (cherry brandy). Made with fresh cherries (or high-quality canned Bing cherries – absolutely NO pie filling!), this recipe is a decadent dessert for adults only. If Kirsch is unavailable, cherry juice can be substituted, though the experience won't be quite the same. Prepare for a truly unforgettable culinary journey!

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Weeknight Pasta Rice And Grains Time To Make Eggs Dairy

Authentic Italian Spaghetti Sauce

Discover the taste of Italy with this authentic spaghetti sauce recipe! Made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, this recipe delivers a rich and flavorful sauce that will transport you straight to a Roman trattoria. Easy to follow instructions guide you through creating a delicious sauce perfect for family dinners or a romantic night in. Impress your family and friends with this classic Italian masterpiece!

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Time To Make Gluten Free Dietary Free Of Something

Awesome Gluten Free Apple Pie With Crumble Topping

Craving Grandma's apple pie but need a gluten-free option? This recipe delivers a thick, juicy apple pie with a buttery, crumbly topping and flaky crust. Made with simple ingredients and a foolproof method, it's so delicious, even your gluten-loving family won't believe it's gluten-free! Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for the ultimate comfort food experience. #glutenfree #applepie #crumblytopping #homemade #easyrecipe #dessert #comfortfood

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Easy Novelty Preparation Main Ingredient

Aztec Gold Brownies

Indulge in the fiery magic of Aztec Gold Brownies! Inspired by the Pirates of the Caribbean and the vibrant flavors of Mexico, these brownies are an unforgettable culinary adventure. Rich dark chocolate, warm cinnamon, bold espresso, a hint of smoky chipotle pepper, and a touch of vanilla create a symphony of taste. Elevate your baking game with the luxurious addition of edible gold leaf – a truly decadent finishing touch. Prepare to impress your guests with these intensely flavorful and luxuriously textured brownies. Get ready for a truly unforgettable baking experience!

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Easy Easy Kid Friendly Occasion

Aztec Hot Chocolate Mix

Indulge in the rich, spicy warmth of authentic Aztec Hot Chocolate! This recipe, inspired by Southwestern traditions, creates a decadent chocolate mix reminiscent of beloved Mexican varieties. Perfect for gifting (10 servings, or 1/4 cup individual gifts), this recipe is easily adaptable – enjoy it as a classic hot chocolate or elevate it to a mocha with hot coffee as suggested by our happy customer, Annacia! Discover the perfect blend of chocolate, spices, and a hint of vanilla for an unforgettable treat.

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Poultry Weeknight Meat Dietary

B Stilla

Experience a taste of Morocco with this unique B Stilla chicken pie! A delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, this recipe traditionally uses pigeon or capon, but chicken offers a delicious and readily available alternative. Prepare for a culinary adventure as you layer flaky phyllo pastry over a rich chicken, almond, and spice filling. This impressive dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and create a truly unforgettable Moroccan masterpiece!

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Dinner Party Vegetables Appetizers Occasion

Grilled Tomato Crustini

These Grilled Tomato & Gorgonzola Crostini are the perfect easy-to-make appetizer for your next cocktail party! Sweet grilled tomatoes and creamy Gorgonzola cheese, drizzled with a homemade balsamic glaze, are served atop crispy baguette slices. Even Gorgonzola skeptics will be won over! This recipe is easily made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on enjoying your guests.

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