Substitute for Turbinado Sugar: 3 Smart Options
The best substitute for turbinado sugar is Demerara Sugar (larger crystals) at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 2 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Demerara Sugar (larger crystals)
Same amount (1:1)
Demerara Sugar (larger crystals) is a workable stand-in for turbinado sugar. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in baking.
What are the other substitutes for turbinado sugar?
Dark Brown Sugar
Use 90%
Dark Brown Sugar works as a substitute for turbinado sugar in many recipes. Use 90% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
Muscovado Sugar (darker turbinado relative)
Use 90%
You can use Muscovado Sugar (darker turbinado relative) in place of turbinado sugar when needed. Use 90% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. It is especially useful in baking.
What should you know before substituting turbinado sugar?
Demerara Sugar (larger crystals) is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to turbinado 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 turbinado sugar in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for turbinado sugar and you need an alternative, there are 3 tested substitutes available. Demerara Sugar (larger crystals) is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role turbinado sugar plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for turbinado sugar depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Demerara Sugar (larger crystals) (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Dark Brown Sugar (Use 90%) is another reliable choice. Dark Brown Sugar works as a substitute for turbinado sugar in many recipes. Use 90% of the original amount to start, then adjust if needed. Taste near the end and fine-tune if the dish needs a little more punch.
When substituting turbinado 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 Turbinado Sugar?
Demerara Sugar (larger crystals) is the best place to start for turbinado 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 Turbinado Sugar?
This page lists 3 substitutes for turbinado sugar. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.