Is This Sweetener Healthier? Vitamins & Minerals

Sugar is a common kitchen ingredient used for various purposes, including enhancing the flavor of baked goods and reducing the bitterness of coffee.

While white sugar is the most widely used, there are different types of sugar that can be substituted in recipes for diverse flavors and functions.

Demerara sugar is a less familiar sugar that is distinct from others. What are its unique characteristics and what recipes does it pair best with? Experts provide insights into this less well-known sweetener.

Demerara sugar is a lightly brown, minimally processed cane sugar produced by dehydrating sugar-cane syrup. Registered dietitian nutritionist Ginger Hultin, M.S., RDN, owner of ChampagneNutrition and author of the *Meal Prep for Weight Loss 101* ebook, explains, "This process retains a small amount of natural molasses, resulting in a toasty brown color, a large grain texture, and a toffee/caramel flavor."

The good news for experimental bakers is that demerara sugar is readily available at local grocery stores.

Compared to white sugar, demerara sugar is slightly less processed and contains molasses due to its manufacturing process. Registered dietitian Jenna Gorham, R.D., L.D., explains, "The molasses provides trace amounts of vitamins and minerals and a subtle toffee or caramel flavor."

Regarding health differences between demerara and other sugars, the general consensus is that they offer similar health benefits. Gorham emphasizes, "It's crucial to remember that sugar, regardless of its form, is still added sugar." Importantly, demerara and white sugar have the same caloric content and produce a similar effect on the glycemic index and blood sugar levels.

Hultin notes that it is recommended that Americans aged two and older consume less than ten percent of their daily calories from added sugars. "Quantity and portions matter," she emphasizes.

Demerara sugar distinguishes itself primarily by its texture. It has a larger grain size than other types of sugar. "In baking, you can use all types of sugar, but demerara is often used as a garnish because of its texture and large grain size," explains Hultin. While white and brown sugar are softer, demerara has a coarser texture and is better suited for sprinkling on top of recipes.

Demerara sugar is especially useful as a topping for baked goods because of its grainy texture, but its uses don't end there. "It can also be used in coffee or tea or in place of light brown sugar in any recipe," adds Gorham. If you prefer a crunchier texture or a more buttery, robust flavor, demerara sugar might be a good choice for your recipe.

Want to spice up your baking? Here are some of our favorite recipes that feature coconut sugar and could be swapped for a little demerara crunch:

If you're making a recipe that calls for demerara sugar but don't have any on hand, you can use light brown sugar as a substitute. Similarly, if you're out of brown sugar, you can use demerara without a significant impact on the final result (such as color or flavor).

"Consider light brown sugar as a substitute, or try turbinado or muscovado sugar, which have similar molasses flavoring and color," adds Hultin. If you're looking for that crunchy flavor to top your coffee but are out of demerara, turbinado might be your best bet.

Demerara sugar, with its toffee-like flavor and texture, is a great choice for adding a gourmet touch to your baked goods with a light sprinkle on top. While it has a hint of molasses, it contains only trace amounts of vitamins and minerals, not enough to significantly impact your diet.

Although demerara sugar may be slightly more nutritious than other types of sugar, it is crucial to be aware of your intake to maintain healthy blood sugar levels and overall well-being.

Like all things, moderation is key when enjoying demerara sugar. However, it's a fantastic way to add a unique flavor and texture dimension to your baking creations.