Infusing sugar is a fun way to transform a simple cup of sugar into a new and exciting pantry item. Infused sugars take little to no effort to make, and creating them at home is much cheaper than buying it in the stores. These sugars can be used in a variety of applications, like baked goods, cocktails, or even as a way to sweeten drinks like coffee or tea.
Finished sugars Image Credit: Kristan Raines
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Vanilla Bean Infused Sugar
Things You’ll Need
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1 medium bowl
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 vanilla bean
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1 medium sealable jar
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Knife
Step 1
Split the vanilla bean in half lengthwise and scrape it with the back of a knife to remove its seeds.
Remove vanilla bean seets Image Credit: Kristan Raines
Step 2
Add the sugar to a medium bowl, then add the vanilla bean seeds. Using a fork, mash the vanilla bean seeds into the sugar until fully incorporated.
Mixing in vanilla bean Image Credit: Kristan Raines
Tip
Try to incorporate the seeds into the sugar as much as possible, although a few clumps of seeds will likely remain.
Step 3
Add the sugar to a sealable jar. Cut the vanilla bean pod as needed to fit in the jar and add to the sugar. Seal the jar and shake it a few times to mix everything around. Store until ready to use.
Step 3 Image Credit: Kristan Raines
Tip
If possible, let the vanilla bean infuse in the sugar for at least a 1-2 weeks before using for the first time.
Citrus Infused Sugar
Things You’ll Need
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1 medium bowl
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 large orange, preferably organic
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1 large lemon, preferably organic
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1 medium, sealable jar
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Microplane zester
Step 1
Add the sugar to a medium-sized bowl. With a zester, zest both the orange and the lemon directly over the sugar.
Add citrus zest to sugar Image Credit: Kristan Raines
Tip
When zesting, make sure to only zest the skin and not any of the white pith.
Step 2
Whisk the orange and lemon zest into the sugar until incorporated and fragrant.
Whisking sugar Image Credit: Kristan Raines
Step 3
Add the sugar to a sealable jar. Seal the jar and shake it a few times to mix everything around. Store until ready to use.
Finished sugar Image Credit: Kristan Raines
Tip
Sugar will keep for up to two weeks.
