Struggling with a brick-like block of brown sugar that's more suited to construction than your cookies? You're not alone. But before you bin it, reach for a solution that's probably already in your bread bin.
This incredibly simple, almost-free trick involves using a single, humble slice of bread to work miracles on your hardened sugar. It's a game-changing household hack that promises to save you money and frustration.
The Simple Bread Trick Explained
The process could not be easier. Simply place a piece of fresh bread—any type will do—into the bag or container with your hardened brown sugar. Seal it tightly and leave it for anywhere between six to twelve hours.
The magic lies in the bread's moisture. It acts as a natural humidifier, transferring just enough softness to the sugar crystals to break them apart without making the sugar wet or sticky. The result? Perfectly soft, scoopable brown sugar, ready for your next baking masterpiece.
Why Does Brown Sugar Go Hard?
Brown sugar hardens because it contains molasses. When exposed to air, the moisture from the molasses evaporates, causing the sugar crystals to stick together and form a solid, impenetrable mass. The key to reviving it is to reintroduce a small amount of moisture, which is precisely what the bread does so effectively.
Prevention Is Better Than Cure
To stop the problem from happening in the first place, proper storage is essential. The experts at BBC Good Food recommend transferring your brown sugar to an airtight container. For extra protection, you can add a terra cotta brown sugar saver, which you soak in water first to provide constant, gentle moisture.
This one-penny solution is a testament to the clever, time-tested hacks that have been passed down through generations. It’s an essential tip for any home baker looking to keep their ingredients—and their baking dreams—perfectly soft.
