To soften hardened brown sugar, several effective methods are commonly used: Microwave Method (Fastest)
- Place the hardened brown sugar in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Cover it with a damp paper towel or kitchen towel (wring out excess water so it’s just slightly damp).
- Microwave in short intervals (10-20 seconds), checking and breaking up the sugar with a fork between intervals until soft
- Alternatively, you can put the brown sugar in a zip-top bag with a small amount of water (about 3/4 teaspoon per 8 ounces of sugar), seal it, press out the air, and microwave for about 15 seconds. Then knead the sugar inside the bag to break up lumps and evenly distribute moisture
Bread or Apple Slice Method (Slower)
- Place a slice of fresh bread or a few apple slices in an airtight container or bag with the hardened brown sugar.
- Seal and let it sit overnight or for several hours. The moisture from the bread or apple transfers to the sugar, softening it
- Remove the bread or apple afterward to prevent mold.
Oven Method
- Preheat the oven to about 250°F (120°C).
- Spread the hardened brown sugar on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Warm it in the oven for a few minutes, checking and breaking up clumps with a fork until soft.
- Let it cool before using
Terracotta Brown Sugar Saver
- Soak a terracotta brown sugar saver in water and place it in the container with the brown sugar.
- It will slowly release moisture to keep the sugar soft over time, but requires occasional re-soaking
Among these, microwaving with a damp towel or adding a small amount of water and kneading in a bag is the quickest and most precise way to soften brown sugar without wasting food or waiting overnight
. Storage Tip: Always store brown sugar in an airtight container to prevent it from hardening again
. In summary, softening brown sugar can be done quickly in the microwave with a damp towel or water, or more slowly using bread, apple slices, or the oven depending on how much time you have
