Coconut Sugar vs Palm Sugar: What’s the Difference?

Confused about the difference between coconut sugar vs palm sugar? Here’s how they are different, and which one you should be using in cooking and baking!

When it comes to sugar, there’s an endless variety to choose from. Sugar is typically extracted from sugar cane or sugar beets. But, there are many other varieties of sugar, and both coconut sugar and palm sugar have grown in popularity over the last few years.

While the names are often used interchangeably, coconut sugar and palm sugar are actually extracted from different sources. This has led to a lot of confusion among consumers—and rightly so! To help you know which one to buy and use in recipes, here’s everything you need to know about coconut sugar and palm sugar.

Difference Between Coconut Sugar vs Palm Sugar

While often used interchangeably, the main difference between coconut sugar vs palm sugar is where they are extracted from. Coconut sugar is extracted from the sap of flowers on the coconut palm tree, whereas palm sugar is extracted from the sap of palm trees, specifically the trunk.

Another big difference? Coconut sugar and palm sugar vary in taste and texture! Coconut sugar has a lovely smooth butterscotch flavor, whereas palm sugar tends to have a smokier caramel flavor. Both are less sweet than white or granulated sugar and contain naturally occurring nutrients and inulin.

What is Coconut Sugar?

Coconut sugar is made from the sap of the flowers on the coconut palm tree. Despite the name, it doesn’t come from coconut, rather it comes from flower bud stems on coconut palms.

Coconut sugar is made by cutting the flower of the coconut palm and collecting the liquid sap. Then, the sap is placed under heat to evaporate the water. Afterwards, the dried sap is broken apart, which results in a granulated caramel-colored sweetener. When it comes to look, taste, and texture, coconut sugar is very similar to brown sugar.

What is Palm Sugar?

Palm sugar comes from the sap of palm trees, specifically the trunk of the tree. Palm sugar can be sourced from many different types of palm trees, including date and sugar palms. Once the sap is extracted, it’s boiled down. This can be sold as palm syrup, or solidified into rock-like chunks of sugar and broken apart, which creates granulated palm sugar. Palm sugar can range from golden brown to dark brown in color.

Coconut Palm Sugar vs Coconut Sugar

When it comes down to it, there is no difference between coconut sugar and coconut palm sugar. Both are extracted from the sap of the coconut palm tree, which is a specific type of palm tree. Palm sugar, on the other hand, comes from the trunk of palm trees. Some companies have incorrectly labeled coconut sugar as coconut palm sugar, which has caused some confusion among consumers. When it comes down to it, both coconut palm sugar and coconut sugar are the exact same product.

Is Coconut Sugar Healthy?

Coconut sugar is a natural alternative to other sugars because it’s minimally processed and maintains many of its nutrients. Coconut sugar contains iron, zinc, calcium, and potassium, as well as polyphenols and antioxidants.

It also contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber that may slow glucose absorption. Coconut sugar is still sugar, and is almost identical to regular sugar in terms of calories and carbohydrate content.

Best Sugar for Recipes

Head to the grocery store, and you’ll find many different types of sugar to choose from. The most popular varieties include granulated (table) sugar, brown sugar, and cane sugar. The good news is, there are many less refined alternatives that can be used in recipes, including coconut sugar, palm sugar, maple syrup, honey, and more!

Ultimately, the type of sugar you use will depend on the flavor you want to achieve. When it comes to choosing between coconut sugar vs palm sugar, I find coconut sugar to be the best option when it comes to flavor and consistency. It’s lightly sweet with hints of caramel and the flavor is fantastic in breads, cakes, and puddings.

Can I Substitute Coconut Sugar for Palm Sugar?

Yes, you can substitute coconut sugar for palm sugar and vice versa. They are virtually the same when it comes to the level of sweetness, texture, and flavor. Palm sugar is a bit smokier than coconut sugar, so I recommend coconut sugar for most desserts and baked goods.

How to Use Coconut Sugar

I love using coconut sugar in healthy desserts recipes, sauces, and sautés! Here are some of my favorite recipes that use coconut sugar:

• Healthy baked orange chicken
• Paleo Chocolate Banana Bread
• Dairy Free Chocolate Pudding
• Paleo Chocolate Cake
• Healthy Carrot Cake

Now, Let’s Get Cooking!

Coconut sugar and palm sugar have a similar consistency, nutrient profile, and flavor. While the difference between the two is fairly simple, knowing how to use them can make all the difference when purchasing the right product!

Have a question about a specific brand? Let me know in the comments below!