What does caster sugar do to the pancake mix?

Caster sugar, also known as superfine sugar, plays a crucial role in pancake mix, contributing to its texture, flavor, and overall deliciousness. Here's how:

Texture:

* Tenderness: Caster sugar's fine granules dissolve quickly and evenly in the batter, creating a more tender and airy pancake. This is because the sugar doesn't interfere with the gluten development in the flour.

* Lightness: The finer texture of caster sugar means it doesn't contribute to a dense, heavy pancake.

Flavor:

* Sweetness: Obviously, the sugar adds sweetness to the pancakes, and since it's finely ground, the sweetness is more evenly distributed throughout the pancake.

* Caramelization: When the pancakes cook, the sugar can caramelize slightly on the surface, adding a touch of richness and complexity to the flavor.

Other benefits:

* Improved browning: The sugar helps the pancakes achieve a beautiful golden brown color.

* Moisture retention: The sugar helps retain moisture in the pancakes, preventing them from drying out too quickly.

Comparison with other sugars:

* Granulated sugar: While you can use granulated sugar in pancake mix, it tends to be less refined and may create a slightly grittier texture. It also takes longer to dissolve, leading to a less even distribution of sweetness.

* Brown sugar: Brown sugar offers a deeper, molasses flavor but can make the pancakes denser and heavier.

Overall, caster sugar is the ideal sugar for making pancakes due to its fine texture, quick dissolving properties, and balanced sweetness. It contributes to a light, airy, and flavorful pancake experience.