As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that turbinado sugar can be a suitable replacement for brown sugar. Both turbinado and brown sugar are considered raw sugars, which means they undergo minimal processing and retain some of their natural molasses content. This gives them a similar flavor profile and makes them interchangeable in many recipes.
When substituting turbinado sugar for brown sugar, it is important to note that the two sugars have slightly different textures. Turbinado sugar crystals are larger and coarser compared to the finer texture of brown sugar. This can affect the way the sugar mixes into batters and doughs, as the larger crystals may not dissolve as uniformly.
To overcome this issue, I recommend pulsing the turbinado sugar in a food processor for a few seconds to break down the crystals and achieve a texture closer to that of brown sugar. This will help the sugar blend more evenly into your recipe.
In terms of flavor, turbinado sugar offers a similar caramel-like taste as brown sugar due to its molasses content. However, the intensity of the flavor may vary slightly. Turbinado sugar has a slightly more pronounced molasses flavor, which can add a subtly different dimension to your recipe. If you prefer a milder sweetness, you can adjust the amount of turbinado sugar used or blend it with white sugar to achieve the desired taste.
In my personal experience, I have successfully substituted turbinado sugar for brown sugar in various recipes such as cookies, cakes, and even in brewing beer. The end result was still delicious and had a rich, caramel flavor. However, it is worth noting that the texture of the baked goods may be slightly different when using turbinado sugar, as the coarser crystals may not fully dissolve.
To summarize, turbinado sugar can be a suitable replacement for brown sugar in equal proportions. However, due to its coarser texture, it is advisable to pulse the turbinado sugar in a food processor before using it in recipes. This will help it mix more uniformly. Keep in mind that turbinado sugar may have a slightly more pronounced molasses flavor, which can add a unique twist to your dishes.