4 Ways to Soften Brown Sugar Quickly

Have you ever gone to grab brown sugar for your favorite cookies, only to find it’s hard and clumped together? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. It happens to the best of us!

4 Methods for Softening Brown Sugar

Here are 4 simple methods to soften brown sugar. Each one is easy to follow and will get your sugar back to its perfect texture in no time!

Method 1: Microwave with a Damp Paper Towel

Place in a Bowl: Put the hard brown sugar in a microwave-safe bowl.
Damp Paper Towel: Cover it with a damp (not soaking) paper towel.
Microwave: Heat on high for 20–30 seconds. Check and repeat if needed, but be careful not to melt the sugar.

Method 2: Oven Method

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 250 °F (120 °C).
Spread on Baking Sheet: Place the sugar on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Warm in Oven: Heat for about 5 minutes, checking often to prevent melting.

Method 3: Bread or Apple Slice

Seal in Container: Place the brown sugar in an airtight container.
Add Moisture Source: Add a slice of bread or an apple slice to the container.
Wait: Leave it sealed for a few hours or overnight. The sugar will absorb the moisture from the bread or apple.

Method 4: Terra-Cotta Brown Sugar Saver

Soak the Saver: Soak a terra-cotta brown sugar saver in water for 15 minutes.
Place in Sugar: Dry off the saver and place it in your sugar container.
Store: Leave it in the container to keep the sugar soft.

My Go To Tips for Keeping Brown Sugar Soft

Airtight Storage: Store brown sugar in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing: You can also store brown sugar in the freezer. It won’t freeze solid and will remain soft.
Seal the Original Bag Properly: If using the original bag, squeeze out all the air and secure it tightly with a clip.

These methods will help you soften your brown sugar quickly and easily, so you’re always ready to whip up a batch of your favorite treats.

Have fun baking!