Recipes

Healthy Recipe: Homemade Pure Cane Sugar with Vanilla

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Healthy Recipe: Homemade Pure Cane Sugar with Vanilla

Unrefined cane sugar is a more natural alternative to white refined sugar because it retains part of its natural minerals and flavor. When infused with real vanilla, it becomes a beautifully aromatic sugar perfect for drinks, desserts, and baking.

🧾 Ingredients

  • 1 liter fresh 100% pure sugarcane juice, well strained
  • 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
    • or 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract (not artificial)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional – helps crystallization)

🛠 Equipment

  • Stainless steel pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Fine strainer
  • Glass or stainless steel tray
  • Spoon or fork

👩‍🍳 Preparation Method

Step 1: Boil the Sugarcane Juice

Pour the sugarcane juice into the pot and place over medium heat.

  • Bring to a gentle boil
  • Skim off any foam that forms on the surface
  • Reduce heat and let it simmer slowly

Step 2: Add the Vanilla

Add the split vanilla bean (or natural vanilla extract).

Simmer gently for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until:

  • The liquid reduces significantly
  • The texture becomes thick and glossy

Step 3: Concentrate the Syrup

Once the mixture becomes dark golden and very thick (similar to heavy honey):

  • Add the lemon juice (optional)
  • Stir well for about 1 minute

Step 4: Cool and Crystallize

Remove from heat and discard the vanilla bean.

Pour the syrup into a tray. As it cools:

  • Stir occasionally with a spoon or fork
  • Sugar crystals will begin to form naturally

Step 5: Dry the Sugar

Leave the crystallized sugar in a dry, well-ventilated place for 12–24 hours until fully dry.

Once dry:

  • Break it up by hand
  • Or grind coarsely, depending on your preference

🍬 Final Result

  • Natural, unrefined cane sugar
  • Light golden to brown color
  • Rich flavor with a vanilla aroma
  • Less processed than commercial white sugar

✅ Why This Recipe Is Better

  • No bleaching or chemicals
  • Retains some natural minerals
  • Deeper flavor, so you often need less
  • Made from real ingredients only

⚠️ Important Notes

  • It is still sugar and should be consumed in moderation
  • Store in an airtight container away from moisture
  • Suitable for coffee, tea, baking, and desserts

💡 Suggested Uses

  • Sweetening coffee or tea
  • Homemade desserts
  • Yogurt and porridge
  • Baking
  • Sprinkled over fruit

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