Save Money & Make Your Own!

With the cost of almost everything on the rise, especially at the grocery store, many families like ours are looking for ways to trim down that hefty bill. One of our favorite discoveries? Making our own brown sugar! Not only does it taste the same as the store-bought stuff, but it’s also super simple to whip up at home—and way more cost-effective for larger families. 

If you’re like us, always on the lookout for little tricks to save some cash without compromising quality, homemade brown sugar is a game-changer. And the best part? It takes just two ingredients and about five minutes to make!

Why Make Your Own Brown Sugar?

Store-bought brown sugar can often be pricey, especially if you bake a lot. By making your own, you’re cutting out the middleman and saving on packaging, processing, and shipping costs—all while getting a fresh, delicious result. Plus, you control the amount of molasses, so you can create the perfect light or dark brown sugar to fit your recipes.

How to Make Homemade Golden Brown Sugar

It’s easier than you think! You’ll just need white sugar, molasses, and a mixer. 

Ingredients:

- 1 cup of white sugar

- 1 tablespoon of molasses (for light brown sugar)

Instructions:

1. Add the sugar and molasses to the bowl of your mixer (use the paddle attachment for best results).

2. Turn the mixer on low and let it go until the molasses is completely blended into the sugar. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.

3. Once blended, your golden brown sugar is ready to use or store!

Pro Tip: If you prefer dark brown sugar, simply add more molasses. A ratio of 1 cup of sugar to 2 tablespoons of molasses will give you a richer, deeper flavor.

Q&A About Homemade Brown Sugar

Is it really cheaper to make your own brown sugar?

In many cases, yes! White sugar is often much less expensive than brown sugar, and a jar of molasses lasts a long time. Depending on where you live and your local prices, this simple swap can help lower your grocery costs. Be sure to do a quick cost comparison in your area to see the savings for yourself.

Does homemade brown sugar taste the same as store-bought?

Absolutely! Brown sugar is essentially white sugar with molasses mixed in—that’s it. The homemade version tastes exactly the same, and you won’t notice any difference in your baked goods. In fact, many people say homemade brown sugar is fresher and has a richer flavor since the molasses is freshly mixed.

How do I store homemade brown sugar?

Store it just like you would with store-bought brown sugar—in an airtight container to keep it soft and fresh. You can also toss in a slice of bread to help maintain moisture, which is a trick many bakers swear by!

What if my brown sugar hardens over time?*

No worries! Homemade brown sugar can sometimes harden if exposed to air for too long. If this happens, you can soften it by placing a damp paper towel over it and microwaving it in short bursts, or by using a brown sugar saver (a small terra cotta piece that keeps sugar moist).

Can I use homemade brown sugar in all recipes that call for store-bought?

 Yes! Whether you’re baking cookies, making sauces, or adding it to your morning oatmeal, homemade brown sugar works exactly the same as the store-bought version. Just measure it out as you normally would, and enjoy the savings!

Final Thoughts

Making your own golden brown sugar is a small but mighty way to cut costs in the kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and customizable, and you'll never have to rush to the store again if you run out. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you’re one step closer to a simpler, more self-sufficient lifestyle. 

So, give it a try and see if homemade brown sugar fits into your budget and kitchen routine. Trust me—it’s worth it!