TIP #1 Lock it Up
It’s tempting to grab the granulated sugar from the pantry, take what you need from the original packaging, and then stick it back on the shelf. But taking the extra time to put it into an airtight container will protect it from heat, moisture, and critters, leaving you with a longer lasting bag.
TIP #2 Rapidly Soften Brown Sugar
When brown sugar comes into contact with air, the moisture evaporates, resulting in a solid block of sweetness. And unless your recipe calls for “an undefined amount of rock-hard brown sugar,” you’re going to need to soften it. To do this, place the hardened sugar in a bowl with a slice of sandwich bread. Cover it with plastic wrap and microwave it for 10 to 20 seconds.
TIP #3 Prevent Hardened Brown Sugar in the First Place
If you want to avoid a solid block altogether, store your brown sugar in a sealed container with a terra cotta Brown Sugar Bear ($3.25). Give your bear a brief soak in water before you add it to the sugar, and you’ll never have to battle the sweet stuff again.
Like these? See more quick tips at Cook's Illustrated.
About the Author: America's Test Kitchen
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If brown sugar has hardened into one solid block, dump it into a container large enough to hold the block. Run a paper towel under some running water. Squeeze dry but leaving it somewhat damp. Drop the paper towel onto the sugar block and cover the container. This will soften up the sugar. Before use, just stir to mix if the top area becomes white from the towel