Golden Brown Sugar

Golden brown sugar is a less refined form of sucrose, typically made from sugarcane. It gets its characteristic color and flavor from molasses, which is either naturally present from incomplete refining or added back to white sugar. It has a finer texture and lighter color than dark brown sugar.

Manufacturers add golden brown sugar primarily as a sweetener and for its distinct caramel-like flavor. It also helps retain moisture in baked goods, making them softer. It is commonly found in baked goods like cookies and cakes, cereals, and various dessert toppings.

Golden brown sugar is considered a food ingredient and is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. Like all sugars, it provides calories and contributes to the 'added sugars' content of foods. The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend no amount of added sugars, and at most 10 grams of added sugars per meal. Excessive intake of added sugars is linked to health concerns such as an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and dental cavities.