Accidentally run out of brown sugar in the middle of a recipe? Ready to make cookies but all out of brown sugar? Have no fear! Let me show you how to make homemade brown sugar with 2 simple ingredients!

RECIPE IS BELOW IN PRINTABLE RECIPE CARD BUT BLOG POST IS FULL OF “HOW TO MAKE IT”, TIPS, INFORMATION AND FAQ
If you’ve ever gone to make cookies, banana bread, or a cozy fall dessert only to realize you’re out of brown sugar, don’t panic, because you can make it at home in just minutes with ingredients you probably already have.
Homemade brown sugar is soft, rich, and perfect for baking. Plus, you can make light or dark brown sugar depending on what your recipe calls for.
Why You’ll Love Making Brown Sugar at Home
- No last-minute store runs
- Cheaper than buying packaged brown sugar
- Customizable flavor
- Always soft and fresh
This is one of those kitchen tricks you’ll use over and over again.
What Is Brown Sugar?
Brown sugar is simply granulated white sugar mixed with molasses.
The amount of molasses determines whether it’s light or dark brown sugar.
- Light brown sugar → mild flavor, slightly caramel-like
- Dark brown sugar → deeper, richer molasses flavor
That’s it! No mystery, no special equipment.
Need to make Dark Brown Sugar? Just double the molasses!
QUICK GLANCE AT INGREDIENTS for homemade brown sugar:
- 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 Tablespoons molasses
(AMOUNTS IN RECIPE CARD BELOW)
How to Make Homemade Brown Sugar:
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You only need 2 ingredients for homemade brown sugar.
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White granulated sugar….

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and molasses!

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In a medium-sized mixing bowl, using an electric mixer or handheld whisk, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of molasses

- Mix Well
Mix well until blended and no longer sticky.

Store in an air-tight container for up to 1 month at room temperature.
Freeze brown sugar for up to 6 months.
Let it thaw at room temperature before attempting to use in a recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Use it 1:1 in any recipe that calls for brown sugar, like cookies, cakes, sauces, glazes, and more.
More helpful homemade recipes
- How to make Homemade Puff Pastry
- How to make Homemade Butter in a Mason Jar
- Homemade Chocolate Cake Mix

Homemade Brown Sugar
Homemade Brown Sugar
Accidentally run out of brown sugar in the middle of a recipe? Ready to make cookies but all out of brown sugar? Have no fear! Let me show you how to make homemade brown sugar with 2 simple ingredients!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 Tablespoons molasses
Instructions
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, using an electric mixer or handheld whisk, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of molasses.
Mix well until blended and no longer sticky.
Store in a covered airtight container for one month.
Notes
Store in an air-tight container for up to 1 month at room temperature.
Freeze brown sugar for up to 6 months.
Let it thaw at room temperature before attempting to use in a recipe.
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