Due to my passion for baking, I have an irrational fear of running out of sugar. To ensure I always have enough, I buy a large bag at Costco, only to realize that it will likely last forever in my pantry, leaving me unsure of the best way to store it. Seeking advice, I consulted Eleonora Lahud, a senior research chef at Domino Sugar and a certified baker with a degree in food science from the American Institute of Baking.
According to Lahud, sugar should be stored at room temperature in an airtight container to prevent exposure to humidity, as moisture can cause granulated sugar to harden and clump, making it challenging to work with. Storing sugar in a cool, dry place like the pantry is recommended, as heat and sunlight can also lead to clumping.
If granulated sugar hardens, Lahud suggests preheating the oven to a low temperature, transferring the sugar to an oven-proof container, and letting it warm up for about 15 minutes to restore its texture.
For brown sugar, it should be kept in a cool, moist area in a covered container or stored in a rust-proof or moisture-proof container to prevent hardening. Various methods, such as using the oven or microwave, can be employed to soften hardened brown sugar quickly or over time.
When it comes to powdered sugar, it should be stored in a cool, dry place to avoid lumping and absorbing odors. Lahud advises against refrigerating sugar, as its hygroscopic nature can cause it to clump in high humidity environments.
In conclusion, proper storage of different types of sugar is essential to maintain their quality and usability in baking.
Strong odors, such as those from last night’s leftovers or particularly pungent produce, can have a significant impact on the quality and taste of sugar. Sugar has the ability to absorb these odors, which may alter its flavor profile and overall quality. According to Lahud, when stored properly, granulated sugar can be utilized and preserved indefinitely. Brown sugar, on the other hand, also has an indefinite shelf life, but it is recommended to use it within six months of purchase for optimal flavor retention. This information can be found in the original article on SIMPLYRECIPES.
