Sugar vs Brown sugar
A side-by-side guide to substituting Brown sugar for Sugar (or vice versa).
Brown sugar works as a 1:1 swap for Sugar in most recipes.
Side-by-side
Brown sugar
Conversion: 1:1 substitution (use the same amount)
Tags: common
Notes: Brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor. Use 1:1 by volume, but pack it down when measuring to account for its denser texture.
Read the full guide: Brown sugar
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Open calculator →When to use Brown sugar instead of Sugar
Brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor. Use 1:1 by volume, but pack it down when measuring to account for its denser texture. The conversion is 1:1 substitution (use the same amount).
Common questions
Yes — Brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor. Use 1:1 by volume, but pack it down when measuring to account for its denser texture. Ratio: 1:1 substitution (use the same amount).
1:1 substitution (use the same amount). For other quantities, use the SubSwap calculator.
They are similar in most uses, but Brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor..
Brown sugar is one of the options SubSwap lists for Sugar. The 'best' choice depends on your recipe — see the full list of Sugar substitutes.
Looking for more Sugar substitutes beyond Brown sugar?
See all Sugar swaps →