Substitute for Demerara Sugar: 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for demerara sugar is Turbinado Sugar at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Turbinado Sugar
Same amount (1:1)
Turbinado Sugar works as a substitute for demerara sugar in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in baking.
What are the other substitutes for demerara sugar?
Brown Sugar
Same amount (1:1)
Brown Sugar is a workable stand-in for demerara sugar. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in baking.
Coconut Sugar
Same amount (1:1)
Coconut Sugar is a workable stand-in for demerara sugar. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Granulated Sugar
Same amount (1:1)
Granulated Sugar is a workable stand-in for demerara sugar. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
What should you know before substituting demerara sugar?
Turbinado Sugar is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to demerara sugar in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Choose the substitute that gets you closest in flavor, texture, and ease of use.
How do you substitute demerara sugar in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for demerara sugar and you need an alternative, there are 4 tested substitutes available. Turbinado Sugar is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role demerara sugar plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for demerara sugar depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Turbinado Sugar (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Brown Sugar (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. Brown Sugar is a workable stand-in for demerara sugar. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in baking.
When substituting demerara sugar, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Demerara Sugar?
Turbinado Sugar is the best place to start for demerara sugar. Use a 1:1 swap and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Demerara Sugar?
This page lists 4 substitutes for demerara sugar. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.
What is a vegan substitute for Demerara Sugar?
Turbinado Sugar is a good vegan option for demerara sugar. Start with a 1:1 swap and fine-tune after tasting.