Granulated Sugar vs Palm Sugar
Density, calorie, and weight differences — and whether they can substitute for each other.
Substitution Verdict
Density difference: 9%. Very similar — 1:1 substitution is usually safe.
Calories per 100 g: Granulated Sugar 387 kcal vs Palm Sugar 380 kcal. Difference: 7 kcal — Granulated Sugar is higher.
Weight Conversions (per Spoon and Cup)
| Measure | Granulated Sugar | Palm Sugar |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon | 12.5 g | 14 g |
| 1 teaspoon | 4.2 g | 4.7 g |
| 1 cup | 200 g | 220 g |
| Density | 0.85 g/ml | 0.93 g/ml |
Measuring Tips
Granulated sugar packs slightly when scooped — spoon and level for accuracy in baking.
Sold in solid blocks (60 g each typically). For measuring: shave, grate, or melt with a splash of water first. Different from Western brown sugar — palm sugar comes from coconut/palm tree sap, not refined sugar with molasses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Granulated Sugar be substituted for Palm Sugar?▾
Very similar — 1:1 substitution is usually safe. Density of Granulated Sugar is 0.85 g/ml; Palm Sugar is 0.93 g/ml — a 9% difference. But flavor, moisture, and chemistry can still differ — verify suitability for the specific recipe.
How many grams in 1 tablespoon of Granulated Sugar vs Palm Sugar?▾
1 tbsp Granulated Sugar ≈ 12.5 g. 1 tbsp Palm Sugar ≈ 14 g. By weight: 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar = 0.89 tbsp Palm Sugar.
Which has more calories, Granulated Sugar or Palm Sugar?▾
Per 100 g: Granulated Sugar 387 kcal, Palm Sugar 380 kcal. Granulated Sugar has 7 more kcal.
What is Granulated Sugar typically used for?▾
Granulated Sugar is commonly used in: baking, sweetening drinks, caramel, meringues. Source: king-arthur, usda-fdc.
What is Palm Sugar typically used for?▾
Palm Sugar is commonly used in: kolak, rendang, peanut sauce, Southeast Asian desserts. Source: usda-fdc.