Introduction

Colored sugar is a simple and fun way to add a pop of color to your baked goods and desserts. With just sugar and a few drops of food coloring, you can create vibrant decorations for cookies, cupcakes, and more.

The image shows piles and bowls of colorful sugar crystals arranged on a white marbled surface. In front, there is a small pile of bright blue sugar with a fine texture, next to a mound of light turquoise sugar. Behind them, a larger clear glass bowl holds a mound of green sugar crystals, while another smaller glass bowl on the right contains blue sugar. In the background, a pile of red sugar is partially visible with some scattered around the base. The sugars have a sparkling, grainy look under soft light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup white sugar
2 drops food coloring, any color

Instructions

Step 1: Gather your ingredients: white sugar and your chosen food coloring.
Step 2: Place the sugar into a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Add 2 drops of food coloring directly onto the sugar.
Step 3: Close the jar firmly and shake vigorously for about 1 minute, until the sugar is evenly colored and blended.
Step 4: Use immediately to decorate or store in the jar for later use.

Tips & Variations

Use gel food coloring instead of liquid for more intense colors without making the sugar too wet.
Try mixing two or more colors for a marbled or rainbow effect.
For a finer texture, pulse the colored sugar briefly in a food processor after drying.

Storage

Store colored sugar in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 months. Keep it dry and away from humidity to prevent clumping. If the sugar feels damp, spread it on a baking sheet and let it air dry before storing.

How to Serve

The image shows small piles of colored sugar crystals on a dark surface with a white marbled texture in the background. There are three visible sugar piles in the front: one light blue, one turquoise, and one white, each sparkling with tiny grains. Behind these, there are clear glass bowls filled with similar colored sugar – one bowl contains turquoise sugar, and a bit of red sugar is visible in a bowl behind. The textures and colors of the sugar crystals are clear and sharp, shining under bright light. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use this colored sugar for all types of baking?

Yes, colored sugar works well as a topping for cookies, cupcakes, cakes, and even beverages. It adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color without affecting the flavor.

Will adding food coloring make the sugar wet or sticky?

Using just two drops of liquid food coloring and shaking well prevents the sugar from becoming too damp. For less moisture, gel food coloring is a great alternative to keep the sugar dry.