Substitute for Palm Sugar: 4 Smart Options
The best substitute for palm sugar is Coconut Sugar at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 3 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Coconut Sugar
Same amount (1:1)
Coconut Sugar is a workable stand-in for palm 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 are the other substitutes for palm sugar?
Brown Sugar
Use 90%
You can use Brown Sugar in place of palm sugar when needed. Use 90% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
Honey
Use 75%
Honey works as a substitute for palm sugar in many recipes. Use 75% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
Palm Sugar Paste
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Palm Sugar Paste in place of palm sugar when needed. 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 palm sugar?
Coconut Sugar is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to palm 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 palm sugar in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for palm sugar and you need an alternative, there are 4 tested substitutes available. Coconut Sugar is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role palm sugar plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for palm sugar depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Coconut Sugar (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Brown Sugar (Use 90%) is another reliable choice. You can use Brown Sugar in place of palm sugar when needed. Use 90% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in baking and sauces.
When substituting palm 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 Palm Sugar?
Coconut Sugar is the best place to start for palm 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 Palm Sugar?
This page lists 4 substitutes for palm sugar. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.