6 Ways To Keep Brown Sugar Soft

Anything that gets in the way of whipping up a batch of chewy chocolate chip cookies is definitely something to watch out for in the future. Fossilized brown sugar has likely interfered with baking ventures more times than you can count! Thankfully, there are several ways to prevent brown sugar from turning into a rock (though, if it has hardened, here’s the best way to soften brown sugar). Here’s how to keep brown sugar soft for all of your baking goals.

One of the best ways to keep brown sugar soft is also the simplest. Use a food-safe container with a tight-fitting lid or even a resealable plastic bag can help keep brown sugar from losing moisture. These containers prevent the brown sugar from being exposed to air and subsequently drying out.

Another method you can use to keep brown sugar soft is to use a terra cotta brown sugar saver. You can purchase small but mighty tools at almost any baking supply store or order them online. Just soak it in water and seal it in with the brown sugar to help soften it up. As explained in this article about brown sugar savers, this tool works by transferring the moisture it absorbs from water into the sugar, making sure it stays soft.

Dense, fluffy marshmallows are great for more than just s’mores. Since marshmallows contain quite a bit of moisture, you can use them to help keep brown sugar soft. All you have to do is add a couple marshmallows to a sealed bag or container of brown sugar to keep it from drying out.

Yes, a simple slice of sandwich bread can help keep brown sugar soft, which is great since you probably already have some one hand. This pantry item functions similarly to a marshmallow. The slice of bread (laid on top of the brown sugar) provides enough moisture to the container to keep your brown sugar pliant and mixable. One tip: After testing this method, we’ve found that it takes around 24 hours to fully soften the brown sugar, so you’ll just need to plan accordingly.

If you plan to make a delicious apple pie, be sure to save just a few slices! Apples contain so much water, which means just a few slices (placed on top of the sugar) can help prevent your brown sugar from hardening. The brown sugar will draw the moisture out of the apples and stay soft.

Storing your brown sugar in a sealed bag in the freezer can help lock in moisture, some cooks say. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature at least 15 minutes before you plan to use it.

If you need softer brown sugar right away, try this method of microwaving it with a damp paper towel. In a matter of moments, the heat and moisture can rehydrate your brown sugar.