There are many different types of granulated sugars. Each of these sugars differs in crystal size depending upon how it has been processed, and this crystal size in turn determines its usage.

For instance, the type of sugar that you use most commonly in your home kitchen for baking and to sweeten your coffee and tea is granulated sugar. Food processors use extra-fine or fine sugar, which is smaller than granulated, because the smaller crystals are ideal for bulk handling and are not as prone to caking.

There also are a variety of large crystal sugars. Coarse sugar is larger than granulated sugar and the processing methods used in its manufacture make it ideal for use in liquors and confections. Sanding sugar is a type of coarse or large crystal sugar, and its crystals are four times larger than those of regular granulated sugar. Used mainly by the baking industry, the large crystals reflect light and give baked goods a sparkling appearance. They also provide a crunchy topping. Often colors are added to sanding sugar to create unusual decorating effects.

Sanding sugar can be found both colored and uncolored in specialty gourmet shops and catalogs, as well as through on-line merchants.

Filed Under: Kitchen Tips