Liquid sugar is a product that is created using a mixture of a liquid such as water mixed with white or brown sugar. There are commercially produced versions available for use in the home as well as in restaurants. It is possible to use this material for many of the same tasks that normally call for table sugar, such as sweetening drinks.
In creating liquid sugar, it is possible to use several different types of sugar. The main requirement is that any sugars used to create sugar water or liquid sweetener is that the granules of sugar will dissolve completely in the liquid. This means it is possible to use white sugar, brown sugar, or even sugarcane derivatives to make the liquid. Even sugar alternatives that are formulated to dissolve in liquids can be used to create a low calorie alternative.
While homemade liquid sugar will use common products like granulated white sugar and packed brown sugar, many of the commercial products will use a specific balance of glucose and fructose products in order to create a viable product. This often yields a product that is actually sweeter than regular table sugar. Along with the sugar compounds, commercially produced versions usually contain various preservatives to retain freshness and color for a longer period of time.
These commercially produced versions of liquid sugar can be substituted for white or brown sugar in a number of recipes. In addition, the product may be offered in restaurants as an alternative way to sweeten coffee or tea. Because the liquid sweetener is much sweeter than regular white sugar, only a small amount of the liquid is required to achieve the same level of sweetness in any beverage.
Around the house, it is possible to create liquid sugar by dissolving table sugar into a small amount of water or milk. It is not unusual for cooks to use this approach when creating dough for baked goods or as a means of creating sweet dressings to serve on raw vegetables. As with the commercial products, homemade liquid sugar can also be created using any type of artificial sweetener that will dissolve completely in liquid. However, it should be noted that not all artificial sweeteners work well in hot liquids, and may not produce a liquid sweetener that would be suitable for use in coffee, tea, or other hot drinks.