Hard Brown Sugar: How to Soften It Up in a Hurry! by Dr. Jamie Krenn

During the winter, I tend to bake. I can't tell you how many times I go to the pantry for brown sugar. I use it in everything from cookies, cakes, pies and the occasional pork chop. One infuriating thing that happens is the hardening of this copper-colored sugar. What to do? I have used tricks, like microwaving, chipping away with a knife, but nothing works like this trick!

• Simply put half a piece of sandwich bread in the sugar container for about 30 minutes.
• The moisture from this magical carb will soften the sugar, and you will be in scooping heaven!
• Be sure not to store the bread in the container indefinitely, as you may forget it about it and then have "green bread, brown sugar."

Here's to happy baking!