If you enjoy baking at home, you’ve probably reached for sugar without thinking too much about which type is going into the bowl.
On the surface, granulated and caster sugar look similar, but they don’t behave in exactly the same way.
Keep reading to learn the difference between caster and granulated sugar so you can feel confident picking the one that suits whatever you’re making next.
What’s the difference between caster sugar and granulated sugar?
Caster sugar and granulated sugar are both forms of white sugar, the key difference lies in the texture.
Caster sugar has small, fine crystals that dissolve quickly, which make it especially helpful in recipes where fine sugar is needed to create the right texture. On the other hand, granulated sugar (sometimes called table sugar) has a coarser texture, making it perfect for a sweet topping or for bakes that need a little more structure.
Both types of sugar dissolve well and bring the same sweetness to your bakes. The choice often comes down to the finish you’re aiming for.
The role of golden sugars
Tate & Lyle Golden Granulated Sugar and Tate & Lyle Golden Caster Sugar add a subtle caramelised note and a warm golden hue to your bakes, offering extra depth without changing the structure of your recipe.
When to use caster sugar in your bakes
Caster sugar’s fine crystals make it the perfect option for most recipes, but it’s particularly suited to delicate bakes that rely on a light, airy texture. Here are some of our favourite recipes using Tate & Lyle Caster Sugar:
Chocolate mousse
A silky-smooth chocolate mousse that’s light but still feels like a proper treat. Ideal when you want something simple yet satisfying.
Pastel de Nata
Flaky pastry and soft, gently spiced custard come together in these iconic little tarts. They’re a great way to bring a touch of Portuguese bakery charm into your own kitchen.
Coffee and walnut cake
A light coffee sponge dotted with walnuts, this cake has an easy, everyday feel while still offering plenty of flavour. It’s the kind of bake that disappears quickly once it’s sliced.
Dark chocolate walnut & pear tart
Dark chocolate, walnuts and juicy pears make this tart rich without being heavy. It’s a thoughtful mix of flavours that feels a little different from the usual dessert options.
Why granulated sugar shines in everyday kitchen moments
Granulated sugar is the one most people keep within arm’s reach, and for good reason. The larger crystals give your bakes a bit more structure, helping meringues, for example, form perfectly stiff peaks. Because it’s so versatile, it’s also great option for sweetening hot drinks and sprinkling over cereal.
Discover delicious recipes that make the most of Tate & Lyle Granulated Sugar:
Scotch pancakes with berries & passionfruit curd
Soft, golden-brown Scotch pancakes topped with bright berries and tangy passionfruit curd; it’s the perfect option for brunch.
English apple tarts
Crisp pastry shells filled with silky apple purée and topped with thinly sliced apples, a simple tart that showcases apples at their best.
Leftover bread & butter pudding
A nostalgic pudding elevated with hints of orange and vanilla, turning leftover bread into a cosy, satisfying dessert.
Biscoff Cookies
Crunchy, spiced cookies with that familiar caramelised warmth, perfect for dunking in tea and indulging a little sweet craving.
Why some recipes use more than one type of sugar
Some bakes call for more than one type of sugar because each one contributes something slightly different to the final result, helping you build layers of flavour and texture without complicating the method.
Our bee sting cake recipe is the perfect example of this: caster sugar is used to create a soft almond sponge and sweet almond topping, while granulated sugar is used for the thick and silky vanilla filling.
Find the sugar you need for your next recipe
Once you know the simple difference between caster and granulated sugar, keeping a mix of sugars on hand gives you the confidence to take on any bake, big or small.
Explore the full range of Tate & Lyle Sugars and keep your cupboard stocked so you’re always ready to bake the recipes you love.
