Why is My Brown Sugar Hard?
Since brown sugar is made from molasses, it can and will dry out. When it does become dry the sugar crystals begin to stick together. Over time, these stuck together pieces become hard clumps. You could end up with the entire bag as one huge, dried lump.
How Can I Soften My Brown Sugar?
You can soften it in a few different ways. Some of these we have tried. Some have been told to us by others that this is their favorite method.
You could buy a little terracotta puck that is made for softening brown sugar. You would need to soak it in water, then dry it, and place it in the container. We have not tried this. Let us know if it works.
My aunt used to add half an apple to her hard brown sugar. In a couple of hours it was soft enough to use.
You could try microwaving it. Cover it with a damp towel or cloth napkin. Heat for about 20 seconds on high. Check to see if it is soft. If not, do a few more seconds. Be careful of the towel as it can get really hot.
Should I Bake With Hard Brown Sugar?
What if you are in a hurry and all you have is hard brown sugar. Is it okay to bake with it anyway? It is probably not a good idea. Why? Because it will be hard to measure to get the exact amount you need. Even if you break it or smash it the lumps probably will not dissolve like it should. This could ruin your entire recipe. Or, you could end up with little hard pieces in your cookies.
How Can I Store Brown Sugar?
To keep it from getting hard in the first place, you need to keep your it away from air. Even though the bags or boxes say they are resealable, air can still get to it and start the hardening process.
It is best if you transfer it to an airtight container once you open the bag or box. You can then seal the container after every use. This should keep your brown sugar nice and soft and ready to use.
For more cooking tips check out https://www.forkscorksandbrews.com/?s=brown+sugar