This article provides an overview of caster sugar, what it tastes like, its availability, alternative names, and of course what other ingredients make caster sugar substitutes.
What is Caster Sugar?
Caster sugar is a finely ground granulated sugar. It has a little grit to it and falls somewhere between Granulated Sugar and confectioners sugar. The name derives from the United Kingdom where many years ago this type of sugar is often found in a shaker, known as a caster, where it was used to sprinkle on fresh fruit.
What does Caster Sugar taste like?
As you can guess, caster sugar tastes just like regular sugar! The biggest difference is the fine grind, which makes it a perfect addition to light and airy desserts like meringues. It is also used to sweeten up drinks, as it does not need heat to dissolve.
Is Caster Sugar readily available in Supermarkets?
Yes, caster sugar is very popular and readily available in supermarkets, you should also be able to find it in local grocery stores.
What are some alternative names for Caster Sugar?
There are a few alternative names for caster sugar, in the US it is often dubbed superfine sugar, ultra-fine sugar, or bakers sugar. In Canada, it is known as berry sugar. It is also very popular as an ingredient in cocktails, so it is sometimes referred to as bar sugar.
What is a good substitute for Caster Sugar in recipes?
Luckily, there are a number of great substitutes for caster sugar. These include:
- Granulated Sugar is the best substitute at a 1:1 ratio
- Regular White Sugar can also be used in a pinch