White Sugar

• To achieve a crisp, golden crust on baked goods like cookies and cakes, white sugar caramelizes beautifully in the oven, adding both flavor and visual appeal. It contributes to the maillard reaction, responsible for the desirable browning effect that many bakers strive for.
• As a key component in simple syrups, white sugar easily dissolves in water to create a foundational sweetener for cocktails, iced teas, and other refreshing beverages. It's a quick and easy way to sweeten drinks without any grittiness.
• For preserving fruits and vegetables, white sugar draws out moisture and inhibits the growth of microorganisms, making it ideal for creating jams, jellies, and candied fruits. The high sugar concentration acts as a natural preservative, extending the shelf life of these products.
• In baking, white sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps to aerate batters by creating air pockets as it's creamed with butter. This contributes to a lighter and more tender crumb in cakes and other baked goods.
• As a critical ingredient in meringues, white sugar stabilizes the egg whites and helps them hold their shape, creating a light, airy, and structurally sound dessert topping. The precise ratio of sugar to egg whites is essential for achieving the desired texture.
• When making homemade candies and confections, white sugar is used as the primary building block to create hard candies, caramels, and other sugary treats. It requires precise heating and cooling to achieve the desired texture and consistency.

• Provides a quick source of energy due to its simple carbohydrate structure.
• Can offer a temporary boost in blood sugar levels, helpful in specific situations requiring immediate energy.
• May improve the palatability of some foods, encouraging consumption of otherwise less appealing nutritious options (use sparingly).
• Contributes to browning and texture development in baked goods.

White sugar should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. This helps prevent clumping and caking. It does not require refrigeration or freezing and can be stored at room temperature indefinitely if properly sealed. Avoid storing sugar near strong-smelling foods, as it can absorb odors.