What is the difference between Demerara and turbinado sugar?
James Holden
Updated on February 20, 2026
Demerara is coarser raw sugar but uniform crystals; turbinado is raw sugar that’s been steam-cleaned with a light molasses flavoring. I like using demerara as a sprinkling on top of cookies that call for it – the crystals stay intact and slightly crunchy. Might also be good in place of brown sugar to glaze a ham.Click to see full answer. Simply so, can I substitute turbinado sugar for Demerara sugar?Another option is to use an equal amount of light brown sugar (or turbinado sugar) in its place. Both of these sugars have the golden brown color and subtle molasses flavor that demerara is known for. Granulated sugar can also be used as a substitute for demerara in a pinch.Additionally, how do you use Demerara sugar? An English version of turbinado sugar, to which it’s very similar except for a slightly larger crystal size. Use it to add sparkle and crunch to the tops of cookies, pastry crusts, and other baked goods, or follow the English lead and use it to sweeten your coffee or tea. Considering this, what is the difference between cane sugar and Demerara sugar? Demerara – This is a type of cane sugar with a fairly large grain and a pale amber color. It has a pleasant toffee flavor and can be used in place of brown sugar. Sucanat – Made from crystallized pure cane sugar, this truly unrefined sugar retains a higher proportion of molasses than other types of cane sugars.What is the difference between turbinado sugar and regular sugar?Turbinado sugar differs from more common sugars because it comes from the first pressing of sugar cane and therefore retains more of the plant’s flavor and natural molasses. These crystals are coarser, darker, and more well-rounded in flavor than granulated or brown sugar because they’re less processed.