The use of hardened brown sugar can be dependent on the circumstances. It’s typical for the sugar to harden when used in baking. To prevent this, storing it in airtight containers is recommended. If that’s not possible, freezing or microwaving are alternative options. Putting a slice of bread with the sugar can help keep it soft. If stored in the refrigerator, it’s best to use the sugar within a few days.
Softening Hardened Brown Sugar
If you’ve ever opened a package of brown sugar and found that it has become hard, you might wonder how to revive it. Brown sugar absorbs moisture from the air and eventually, crystals form. But the sugar is still usable if you can restore moisture. Here are some tips to revive your sugar. Use a damp dishtowel or piece of bread to add water to the brown sugar. After two days, remove the damp paper towels and bread.
You can use a food processor, blender, or box grater to liquefy hardened brown sugar. Some people suggest using a box grater. However, this method is not recommended because it may end up crumbling. While introducing moisture into the mixture also breaks down the sugar into small bits, not solving the fundamental problem. Therefore, it is essential to avoid beating hardened brown sugar.

Freezing
While you may not be able to use brown sugar immediately, you can store it for later use in airtight containers. These include Tupperware containers, Ziploc bags, Mason jars, and glass containers. Brown sugar can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. To maintain freshness, ensure the container is airtight to prevent trapped air. Then, simply place the container in a dark and dry place.
If you want to keep the sugar fresh for several months, you may want to refreeze it. This will prevent it from absorbing moisture. Moisture helps the sugar retain its soft texture, but direct contact with water will turn it into rigid, chunky crystals. If you have a large amount of brown sugar, you should store it in several small containers instead of one large one. Another option is to use resealable freezer bags instead of large containers. Many homes have these, and you can reuse them if you prefer.
Microwaving
There are a few different ways to store brown sugar to ensure its shelf life. Store it in an airtight container or in a large, resealable plastic bag. This will help to keep it moist and prevent it from turning white or crumbling. Ensure to leave it out of the microwave overnight to soften before using it. Otherwise, you may have to microwave it a second time to soften it enough to use it in cooking.
First of all, it is very important to be aware of the fact that brown sugar can become hard over time. To soften hard brown sugar, you can either microwave it or put it in the oven. However, you have to monitor the temperature carefully, because the sugar will melt if left in the oven for too long. This may take some time, so do not leave it in the oven for too long.
Terra Cotta
If you are looking for a unique way to store your brown sugar, you may consider purchasing a terra cotta disk. Made from molasses and white sugar, this material helps to retain moisture. While you can use this dry, unsoaked terra cotta disk, it is best to soak it overnight in a water bowl to prevent it from becoming too hard or too soft. You can also purchase a terra cotta disk that is already sterilized. These are also reusable, though, and should be rinsed with clean water after use.
Brown sugar should be stored away from air. Exposure to air will cause the crystals to harden, making it more difficult to mix. If you want to keep brown sugar soft for a long time, however, you can store it in a terra cotta disk that is insulated. You can purchase one at baking supply stores if you do not have one. A terra-cotta disk will keep your brown sugar soft for several months and can be reused over again.