Sugar Cubes
A cube-shaped table sugar made by molding and drying moistened granulated sugar. It provides measured sweetness for tea and coffee and is also often used in cocktails.
What Are Sugar Cubes?
Sugar cubes are standard-size table sugar made by pressing lightly moistened granulated sugar into cube molds and drying it. They were first produced in the mid-19th century to eliminate the need to break off pieces of traditional sugarloaves.
Each cube weighs about 3–5 grams and has the same composition as granulated sugar; only its shape is different. This standard size makes it easy to measure how much sugar is added to tea or coffee.
Nutritional Values of Sugar Cubes
Because sugar cubes are chemically the same as granulated sugar, they have the same nutritional value; 100 grams contains about 390 kcal and 100 g of carbohydrates, almost all of which is sucrose. They provide no additional nutrients such as vitamins or minerals.
What Are the Benefits of Sugar Cubes?
The main practical benefit of sugar cubes is that their standard size makes it easier to visually track how much sugar you consume, which may help with moderation. They have no nutritional difference from granulated sugar.
This is general information; sugar cubes are a food and are not a substitute for medical treatment. Avoiding excessive, regular consumption and using them in moderation as part of a balanced diet is recommended.
How to Choose Sugar Cubes
When choosing sugar cubes, the integrity of the cubes and the packaging conditions matter.
- The cubes should be whole and firm, not crumbling; a package of crumbled cubes may have absorbed moisture.
- Choose white or brown sugar cubes according to how you plan to use them.
- Choose airtight packaging that protects them from moisture.
How to Store Sugar Cubes
Sugar cubes can be stored indefinitely at room temperature in a tightly closed container away from moisture. If they absorb moisture, the cubes may stick together and lose their shape; this change in appearance does not spoil the product.
Using Sugar Cubes in the Kitchen
Sugar cubes are used to sweeten tea and coffee in measured amounts, in some cocktails (for example, an Old Fashioned), and traditionally when serving absinthe. They can be eaten as is or moistened to soften them.
How to Make a Cocktail with a Sugar Cube
Place a sugar cube at the bottom of a glass and add a few drops of bitters (an aromatic liqueur). Crush the cube until it dissolves, then add ice and liquor to make a classic cocktail.
What Recipes Use Sugar Cubes?
Sugar cubes are often used when serving tea and coffee, in an Old Fashioned cocktail, and in some traditional drink recipes; in baked goods, they are usually crushed into a powder before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many grams of granulated sugar equal one sugar cube?
A standard sugar cube weighs about 3–5 grams, or the equivalent of about one 5 ml measure of granulated sugar.
Are sugar cubes lower in calories than granulated sugar?
No. They have the same sucrose composition, so there is no difference in calories. The only difference is their shape and how easily they can be measured.
How are sugar cubes made?
Granulated sugar is lightly moistened (about 2–3%), pressed into cube molds, then dried in an oven or drying room until the moisture evaporates and removed from the molds.
How long does a sugar cube take to dissolve in water?
In hot tea or coffee, a sugar cube usually dissolves completely within a few seconds with gentle stirring; it may take a little longer in cold drinks.
Are there brown sugar cubes?
Yes, sugar cubes made from brown sugar are also available; they have a softer texture and a mild molasses flavor.