Caster sugar is a type of refined white sugar that has a fine texture. It is often used in baking because it dissolves quickly and evenly into batters. However, if you’re looking for a caster sugar substitute, don’t worry – there are plenty of options!
In this article, we’ll discuss the differences and similarities between caster sugar substitutes. We’ll also provide the exact ratios to use as a replacement when substituting caster sugar, and give examples of how we’ve used the substitutes in both sweet and savory recipes.
List Of Substitutes For Caster Sugar
- Granulated Sugar
- Brown Sugar
- Powdered Sugar
- Maple Syrup
- Honey
- Muscovado Sugar
- Corn Syrup
- Agave Syrup
- Coconut Sugar
- Demerara Sugar
- Stevia Sugar
- Rice Malt Syrup
Granulated Sugar
Although granulated sugar and caster sugar might look similar, they have quite different properties.
Caster sugar is finer-grained and dissolves more quickly than granulated sugar, making it ideal for baking applications where a light, fluffy texture is desired. However, granulated sugar can be used as a substitute for caster sugar in most recipes.
Simply use a 1:1 ratio – for every cup of caster sugar called for, use one cup of granulated sugar instead. The finished product might not be quite as light and airy as it would be with caster sugar, but it will still taste delicious.
And, who knows – you might just discover a new baking favorite in the process.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar is a type of unrefined sugar that is made from sugar cane or sugar beet juice. It has a characteristic brown color and molasses flavor.
Brown sugar can be used as a substitute for caster sugar in many recipes. When substituting, use a 1:1 ratio of brown sugar to caster sugar. When substituted, brown sugar will create a denser texture and deeper flavor.
The two sugars can also be blended to create a custom blend with desired properties. Overall, brown sugar is a versatile substitute for caster sugar that can be used in many recipes.
Powdered Sugar
In many cases, powdered sugar can be used as a substitute for caster sugar. Powdered sugar is finer than caster sugar, and it melts more quickly.
This makes it a good choice for use in desserts like cakes and puddings. However, because it melts more quickly, it may not be the best choice for making meringues or other dishes where you want the sugar to retain its shape.
When using powdered sugar as a substitute for caster sugar, you may need to adjust the amount you use. For example, you may need to use less powdered sugar than you would caster sugar, as the finer texture of the powder means that it packs more densely than granulated sugar.
Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is a delicious natural sweetener that can be used as a substitute for caster sugar in many recipes. While it is most commonly associated with pancakes and waffles, maple syrup can also be used to sweeten pastries, coffee, tea, and even savory dishes.
In addition to its unique flavor, maple syrup has several other benefits over refined sugar. It is a rich source of antioxidants and minerals, and it has a lower glycemic index, which means it does not cause spikes in blood sugar levels.
Maple syrup also imparts a lovely golden color to baked goods. Finally, if you are looking for a way to add a little extra sweetness to your favorite recipe, reach for the maple syrup instead of the caster sugar. You may just be pleasantly surprised by the results.
Honey
Honey is a great substitute because it is sweeter than sugar, so you may be able to use less honey than sugar and still achieve the desired level of sweetness. Just use half a cup of honey in place of every cup of sugar called for in the recipe.
Additionally, honey imparts a subtle flavor to baked goods that can be delicious. Finally, honey is a natural, unrefined sweetener, so some people prefer to use it in baking as a way to avoid processed sugar.
All in all, using honey as a substitute for caster sugar is a great way to add flavor and sweetness to your baked goods!
Muscovado Sugar
Muscovado sugar is a type of unrefined sugar that has a dark brown color and a molasses-like flavor. It can be used as a substitute for caster sugar in many recipes.
When using muscovado sugar as a substitute, use equal amounts of the sugar. Muscovado sugar works well in pies, pastries, cookies, and cakes. It can also be used to sweeten beverages such as coffee and tea.
The main benefit of using muscovado sugar is that it imparts a rich flavor to dishes. In addition, muscovado sugar contains more vitamins and minerals than refined sugars.
Corn Syrup
While it’s not as widely available as caster sugar, corn syrup can be used as a substitute in some recipes. When substituting corn syrup for caster sugar, use 1/2 cup of corn syrup for every 1 cup of sugar.
Corn syrup is sweeter than sugar, so you may need to use less of it to achieve the desired level of sweetness. Corn syrup is also thinner than sugar, so it may not provide the same level of structure to baked goods. However, it can be a good choice for frostings and sauces.
Agave Syrup
Agave syrup is another great alternative to caster sugar. It is sweeter than caster sugar, so you can use less of it.
Additionally, it dissolves more easily in cold liquids. As a result, it is often used in iced drinks and desserts. Agave syrup can also be used as a natural sweetener in baking.
When substituting agave syrup for caster sugar, you will need to experiment to find the right ratio. In general, you will need about three-quarters as much agave syrup as you would sugar. However, this will vary depending on the recipe and your personal taste.
Coconut Sugar
While coconut sugar and caster sugar are both used to sweeten food and drinks, they have some key differences.
Caster sugar is made from refined white sugar, whereas coconut sugar is made from the sap of the coconut palm. As a result, coconut sugar has a richer flavor and a darker color than caster sugar. It also contains minerals such as iron and potassium.
However, coconut sugar is slightly less sweet than caster sugar, so you may need to use a little more to achieve the same level of sweetness. Additionally, because it hasn’t been bleached or processed, coconut sugar retains some of the natural flavors of the coconut palm.
This makes it a great choice for baking recipes that call for brown sugar. Overall, using coconut sugar as a substitute for caster sugar can add depth of flavor and nutrients to your baked goods.
Demerara Sugar
While caster sugar is the traditional choice for baking, there are times when demerara sugar can be used as a substitute.
One advantage of demerara sugar is that it melts quickly, making it ideal for use in recipes where the sugar needs to be dissolved before being added to the rest of the ingredients. Additionally, the large crystals of demerara sugar give baked goods a lovely crunchy texture.
While you may need to make some adjustments to your recipe if you are substituting demerara sugar for caster sugar, the results can be well worth the effort.
Stevia Sugar
Stevia sugar is a healthy alternative to caster sugar. It is made from the stevia plant, which is native to South America. The stevia plant has been used for centuries to sweeten food and drink.
Stevia sugar is much sweeter than regular sugar, so you only need to use a small amount to get the same sweet taste. It is also a healthy choice because it does not contain any calories or artificial flavors.
This makes it an ideal substitute for people who are trying to lose weight or manage their blood sugar levels. If you are looking for a healthy, sweet alternative to regular sugar, consider using stevia sugar.
Rice Malt Syrup
Rice malt syrup is a sugar-free alternative to caster sugar that can be used in a variety of recipes.
It is made from brown rice and is high in maltose, a type of sugar that is slowly absorbed by the body. This makes it a good choice for people who are looking to reduce their sugar intake.
Additionally, rice malt syrup has a subtle caramel flavor that can add depth to recipes. It can be used in place of caster sugar in cakes, cookies, and other sweet treats.
When substituting rice malt syrup for sugar, you may need to experiment with the amount you use as it can affect the texture of baked goods. Overall, using rice malt syrup is a great way to cut down on sugar without compromising taste or texture.
FAQs
How can I make Caster Sugar?
Caster sugar can be made by combining granulated sugar and cornstarch. Sift the sugar and cornstarch together into a bowl. Then, place a sieve over another bowl and pour the caster sugar mixture into it. Use the back of a spoon to press down on the mixture and force it through the sieve. Discard any residue that is left in the sieve.
Conclusion
There is no one perfect caster sugar substitute, as each has its own unique set of pros and cons. However, any of the substitutes we’ve listed above will work well in most recipes.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a healthy, delicious alternative to caster sugar, be sure to give them all a try!