Coconut Sugar

Coconut sugar, also known as palm sugar, is a natural sweetener that is made from the sap of the coconut palm tree. It is often used as a healthier alternative to regular sugar, and it has become more popular in recent years.

I recently became aware of it in my quest to find suitable sweeteners that have fewer grams of sugar than traditional granulated white sugar. Many people choose to use it because it offers additional health benefits compared to other sweeteners.

Coconut sugar has a brown color and a unique caramel flavor. It can be used in a variety of ways, including baking, cooking, and sweetening beverages.

It is considered to have a lower glycemic index, meaning it may cause a slower rise in blood sugar levels compared to other sweeteners. Additionally, it contains nutrients like potassium, iron, and zinc, which are not found in traditional white sugar.

As a sweetener for beverages, coconut sugar can be dissolved in hot or cold liquids. It can be used in tea, coffee, smoothies, and other drinks to add a touch of sweetness and flavor.

Bake with Coconut Sugar

In baking, coconut sugar can be substituted at a 1:1 ratio for regular sugar. It adds a rich, caramel flavor to recipes and can be used in cakes, cookies, and other desserts. It can also be used in cooking to add sweetness to sauces, marinades, and dressings.

More coarse than refined sugar, I found it to be a great substitute. I recently baked banana bread with it and you would be hard pressed to notice the difference, with the exception of the coarse texture. That said, you could easily remedy this by running it through a food processor, first.

However, at only 30 fewer grams of sugar, per cup, than granulated sugar, it does have me searching for other alternatives. But this is a great option I enjoy. You don’t feel like you are giving up sugar with this one.

MADHAVA Organic Coconut Sugar is what I purchased, from Amazon. Overall, it is a great substitute and is great in a variety of applications.

Email your sugar hacks to me! My hunt for alternatives to white sugar continues however, this was great for my first try at a substitute!