Caster sugar, also known as castor sugar, is a superfine sugar often used in British baking. Somewhat hard to find in the U. Erin Huffstetler is a writer with experience writing about easy ways to save money at home. The world of sugars can be a bit confusing since there are a number of different types of the sweet stuff and caster sugar can differ from country to country.
Caster sugar is very popular in British baking but less common in American recipes. Granulated sugar always refers to white sugar in the U. It has a somewhat gritty texture and is the most common type of sugar stateside. Caster sugar incorporates more easily than granulated sugar into delicate, airy recipes like sponge cake, mousse, meringue, and soufflé. It’s also used to sweeten fresh berries since it dissolves quickly. Whether or not you can use a substitute for caster sugar will depend on the recipe. To better mimic the melting properties of caster sugar, there is a trick you can use.
For Berries: Regular granulated sugar will work just as well, it will just take longer to dissolve. Allow the berries to sit a few extra minutes, tossing occasionally. For Cocktails: Granulated sugar can be used in shaken cocktails, you’ll just need to use a bit of elbow grease and shake the cocktail for longer. For Meringues: For meringues or cakes that call for beating egg whites with sugar, use granulated sugar and mix at a lower speed to allow the sugar more time to melt. For best results, use caster sugar. If you don’t have caster sugar handy and are making a delicate recipe like sponge cake, mousse, or meringue, make your own substitute at home.
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Place the granulated sugar in a food processor, blender, coffee grinder, or spice grinder. If you are using a large food processor, you will have to add enough sugar to cover the blades. Pulse until it reaches a super-fine but not powdery consistency. You’re aiming for a crystal size directly between granulated sugar and powdered sugar. Let the sugar settle for a few minutes.
Otherwise, you’ll end up with a dust cloud when you open the top. Use your homemade caster sugar in place of store-bought caster sugar in a recipe. If you have any leftover, store in a labeled container for the next time you bake. Can I Substitute Granulated Sugar for Caster Sugar?