An expert from Domino Sugar weighs in.
Lahud has a degree in food science and is a certified baker from the American Institute of Baking.
Sugar should be stored at room temperature and tightly wrapped to avoid humidity.
Simply Recipes / Photo Illustration by Wanda Abraham / Getty Images
Granulated sugar will harden when exposed to any bang out of moisture, Lahud says.
Moisture causes sugar to clump.
Clumped sugar makes it difficult to work with.
Simply Recipes
Never measure sugar that is clumped as it will affect the outcome of your recipe.
She says sugar should always be stored in an airtight container.
Simply Recipes
How To Make Hard Sugar Soft Again
Dont worry if your granulated sugar gets hard.
Theres an easy fix to make it soft again.
Lahud says to preheat your oven to its lowest temperature, between 150F to 200F.
Remove the sugar from its box or bag and put it in an oven-proof container.
Then place it in the oven for about 15 minutes.
Tap the sugar with a spoon, Lahud says.
For extra protection, store the original container in a second container with a tight lid.
How To Store Powdered Sugar
Keep powdered sugar in a cool, dry place.
If its exposed to moisture, then it can develop lumps.
It can also absorb strong smells.
Should You Store Sugar in the Refrigerator?
Absolutely not, says Lahud.
Sugar is hygroscopic, this means it can attract and retain water molecules from its surroundings, Lahud says.
The high humidity in refrigerators can cause sugar to clump.
Refrigerators often have strong odorslike last nights leftovers or particularly pungent produce.
Sugar can absorb those odors, which affects its taste and quality.
If stored correctly, granulated sugar can be used and kept indefinitely, says Lahud.
