rock hard sugar

[Headfry]

Today's starter for 10
I have brown sugar in old coffee jars at home but it has turned rock hard.
Can it be recovered?

Thanks folks

[zazen999]

Wet tea towel innit? Over the top for the sugar to absorb some moisture and loosen up a bit.

[HayleyB]

I knew there was a remedy but couldn't remember so googled and got this..

Most brown sugar is actually white sugar with molasses added back. So, when brown sugar is left unattended the molasses harden and stick to the sugar like glue. When this happens, you can take a piece of an apple (the core) and put it into the bag of sugar. Alternatively, you can use a pear. This will not affect the flavor of the sugar and will help to moisten the sugar and maintain its softness.

Another solution is to put the sugar in the microwave, and then, place it in an airtight container with something moist, such as a damp paper towel. Also, make sure that you are storing your sugar in an airtight container. The apple and pear method will not work if the sugar is left open exposed to air.

[bubblewrap]

Try putting the jar into warm/hot water.

[Headfry]

Thanks folks, I will give it a go.

[rustylady]

I just chip it out of the jar with a knife or spoon and bash with a rolling pin!

[Headfry]

Problem....it's that hard I cant budge it!!!

[rustylady]

Then you'll have to go with the putting something moist in the jar to soften it a bit. If all else fails and you want to use it for jams or chutneys then put some water into the jar and turn it into syrup.

[Hilary B]

Then you'll have to go with the putting something moist in the jar to soften it a bit. If all else fails and you want to use it for jams or chutneys then put some water into the jar and turn it into syrup.

Fine if you want to use the whole lot, but a sure way of getting any remains set VERY permanently! (but it's what I'd do).