You ever find yourself eyeing that bag of sugar, wondering what makes it so special?
Turbinado sugar isn’t just any sugar; it’s got a unique taste and texture that can really elevate your recipes.
Some of us might think it’s tricky to substitute, but don’t sweat it. We’ve got you covered with simple swaps that work great in a pinch.
Whether you’re out of it or just want to try something new, these alternatives will keep your dishes on point. Let’s jump right into those quick and easy replacements!

6 Easy Substitutes for Turbinado Sugar
While turbinado sugar is often used as a topping for baked goods like cookies and muffins, it can also be used in cooking to add a touch of sweetness. However, if you don’t have any on hand or simply want to try something new, here are 6 quick substitutes for turbinado sugar.
1 – Brown Sugar
First, let’s talk about brown sugar—a solid stand-in for turbinado. It’s got that same molasses kick we all love. The moisture makes our cookies and cakes turn out chewier and tastier. Use it in a 1:1 swap, no stress.
We find it in most pantries, so it’s super convenient. You’ll notice a richer taste that might even win you over. If turbinado sugar is pricey or hard to find, brown sugar is our best bet.
Curious about more swaps? Check out this guide on brown sugar substitutes. It’s packed with practical tips you won’t want to miss.
2 – Coconut Sugar
Next up is coconut sugar! It’s a fantastic stand-in for turbinado sugar and brings with it a subtle caramel flavor. Just like turbinado, it has a coarser texture, adding a nice crunch to your recipes. You can use coconut sugar in a 1:1 ratio, making it super easy to swap out.
We often use it in our cookies, and they come out just as delicious. It dissolves well and gives a rich taste. If you’re experimenting in the kitchen, coconut sugar is a great way to mix things up.
For more options, take a peek at our guide on coconut sugar substitutes. It’s got all the tips you need.
3 – Muscovado Sugar
Muscovado is like brown sugar’s cool, older sibling. It has a deep molasses flavor and a moist, sticky texture. Just what we need to give our cookies that extra layer of chewy goodness.
We use muscovado in a 1:1 ratio, just like turbinado. Its richness brings something special to our bakes. We love sprinkling it on oatmeal for a sweet and smoky kick.
Need more swaps? Check out our muscovado sugar substitutes guide. It’s perfect for more tips!
4 – Honey
While honey isn’t just for tea, it’s a pro at replacing turbinado sugar. It brings a sweet, slightly floral flavor that elevates baked goodies. Use a 3/4 cup of honey for every cup of turbinado sugar. Don’t forget to reduce the liquid in your recipe by 1/4 cup for every cup of honey used.
We love using honey in our breads and muffins. It makes them moist and adds a rich flavor. Honey is also great for glazing meats or drizzling on desserts. It’s a versatile swap that’s easy to love. Find more tips for honey swaps in our guide on honey substitutes.
5 – Agave Nectar
The cool kid on the block, agave nectar offers a sweet, mild flavor that’s spot-on for baking. We use it in place of turbinado sugar by swapping 2/3 cup of agave nectar for every cup of turbinado sugar. Remember to reduce other liquids by 1/4 cup per cup of agave used.
We love agave’s smooth texture and the way it mixes seamlessly. Perfect for brownies, muffins, and even sweetening drinks. It’s a handy and versatile alternative. Interested in more swaps? Check out our agave nectar substitutes guide. You’ll find all the tips you need there.
6 – Date Sugar
Last but not least, we have date sugar. It’s made from dried dates and has a sweet, fruity flavor that pairs well with baking. Use 1 cup of date sugar for every cup of turbinado sugar in your recipe.
We love this swap in our cookies and muffins. It brings a caramelly taste that complements chocolatey desserts. But don’t limit it to baking—it’s also great added to hot drinks for a natural sweetness. Want more tips? Check out our date sugar substitutes guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, brown sugar is a great substitute, providing a similar molasses flavor and moisture to your baked goods.
Yes, coconut sugar can replace turbinado sugar, providing a similar texture and caramel-like flavor, though it may have a slightly more complex taste.
Yes, muscovado sugar is a suitable substitute, offering a rich and molasses-like flavor, though it’s a bit more moist.
Yes, honey can replace turbinado sugar, adding sweetness along with a touch of floral flavor.
Yes, date sugar is a good choice, providing a natural sweetness and caramel flavor to your smoothies.

Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.