Demerara Sugar vs Brown sugar

A side-by-side guide to substituting Brown sugar for Demerara Sugar (or vice versa).

Quick answer

Brown sugar works as a 1:1 swap for Demerara Sugar in most recipes.

Side-by-side

Demerara Sugar

Base unit: cup

Read the full guide: Demerara Sugar

Brown sugar

Conversion: 1:1 substitution (use the same amount)

Tags: commonbudget

Notes: One-to-one replacement; slightly moister and adds subtle molasses flavor. Works in baking and topping.

Read the full guide: Brown sugar

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When to use Brown sugar instead of Demerara Sugar

One-to-one replacement; slightly moister and adds subtle molasses flavor. Works in baking and topping. The conversion is 1:1 substitution (use the same amount).

Common questions

Can I substitute Brown sugar for Demerara Sugar?

Yes — One-to-one replacement; slightly moister and adds subtle molasses flavor. Works in baking and topping. Ratio: 1:1 substitution (use the same amount).

What's the conversion ratio for Demerara Sugar to Brown sugar?

1:1 substitution (use the same amount). For other quantities, use the SubSwap calculator.

Are Demerara Sugar and Brown sugar interchangeable?

They are similar in most uses, but One-to-one replacement; slightly moister and adds subtle molasses flavor..

Is Brown sugar a better substitute than other options for Demerara Sugar?

Brown sugar is one of the options SubSwap lists for Demerara Sugar. The 'best' choice depends on your recipe — see the full list of Demerara Sugar substitutes.

Looking for more Demerara Sugar substitutes beyond Brown sugar?

See all Demerara Sugar swaps →