Demerara Sugar: Crunchy Amber Crystals with Molasses Hints & Trace Minerals

Demerara sugar is a **coarse, light-brown cane sugar** originally shipped from Demerara (Guyana). Large amber crystals retain a thin film of natural **molasses**, giving a caramel-toffee aroma and gentle crunch.

Cane juice is evaporated to a thick syrup, seeded with tiny crystals and spun in a centrifuge **once**. Minimal refining leaves 1–2 % molasses plus **trace potassium, calcium & magnesium**.

|Calories|Carbs|Sugar|Protein|Fat|Calcium|Potassium| |---|---|---|---|---|---|---| |377 kcal|94 g|93 g|0 g|0 g|85 mg (7 % DV)|133 mg (3 %)|

- **Crunchy texture**—ideal for toppings on muffins, cookies & crème brûlée. - Faint **molasses minerals** (Ca, K) compared with white sugar. - Slightly **lower glycaemic index** (~55) than refined sucrose (~65).

- Still **over 96 % sucrose**—moderation essential. - Large crystals don’t dissolve quickly—less suited to delicate cake batters. - No significant vitamin content despite colour.

- Sprinkle on **oatmeal, yogurt parfaits, fruit crumbles**. - Swap 1 : 1 with white sugar in **cold-brew coffee** or **simple syrup** for richer notes. - Press onto **salmon or pork belly** for sweet-crunch glaze.

- Replace with **turbinado** (similar crystal) or **light brown sugar** (smaller crystals, moister). - DIY: mix 1 cup white sugar + 1 tsp mild molasses; dry in low oven, then pulse for coarse grit.

- Keep in airtight jar away from humidity—clumps form quickly. - If hard lumps appear, place slice of apple or citrus peel inside 12 h to soften.

- Look for **Fairtrade** or **Bonsucro-certified** brands to support ethical cane farming. - “Raw” on labels often means minimally processed—not totally unrefined.