That’s why I bought a brown sugar pack. One You completely forgot how to make the recipe again.
We’re all guilty of that.
But don’t worry, because the good news is that brown sugar basically stays good forever.
Yep, spoiler: provided your brown sugar hasn’t come into contact with excess moisture, bacteria, or insects, you should be fine to use it.
What to do if your brown sugar is bad?
Unless something suspect has gotten into your packet of brown sugar, it’s really unlikely it’s gone bad. Keep an eye out for Insects, eggs or mold.
If your brown sugar has none of the above, you’re good to go, even if it’s hardened. That just happens as moisture leaves your brown sugar over time, and we’ll show you a method to re-soften your brown sugar.
How to Store Brown Sugar
Your brown sugar should be stored in a dry and dark area like a pantry or cupboard. Moisture is the key element here. If water seeps in, it can cause sugar to deteriorate.
Also, think about Double-bag your brown sugar and put it in a freezer bag once it’s opened in order to keep bugs, moisture, and bacteria firmly out.
If you’re constantly using your sugar, get a cute little sugar container. You won’t have to open a double-bagged bag every single time and it will prevent bacteria from growing after double-dipping. Brown sugar might not be bad but your milk will!
Although it is important to keep moisture out of the bag of sugar sugars, brown sugar can harden over time.
This isn’t a problem, though – You can use any one of the following methods to resolve hardened brown sugar:
- A sugar saver automatically reduces your sugar’s water content.
- With a fork, break apart the hardened sugar crystals.
- Place your brown sugar in a bag, and smash it with a hammer.
- To break down brown sugar, use an electric mixer/blender.
- Put an apple wedge into the brown sugar container to add moisture and keep it sealed for at least 2 hours.
- You can also add moisture to the sugar by placing orange peel inside the package overnight.
- You can add moisture to brown sugar quickly and easily by placing it in a bowl. Next, place a damp towel on top. Microwave the mixture for about 30 seconds.
Use only softening the brown sugar. Hardened sugar is difficult to use, but it can be softened, and it doesn’t go bad. Too much sugar may harbor bacteria.
What will happen to brown sugar over time?
Brown sugar is considered “shelf-stable” by the USDA, which means it’s fine to be stored at room temperature and will stay good indefinitely unless unwanted moisture or insects have got into the bag.
Brown sugar is best at its peak before date Probably around two years. Your sugar will begin to lose its molasses taste and may be less safe to use for baking, cooking, or eating.
Key Takeaways from Brown Sugar
There’s not much to worry about with brown sugar.
If it’s off, it’ll be obvious. Check for signs of mold or insects.
Brown sugar is good for life, but it can harden. Here are some tricks that will help you soften brown sugar.
