Could I add 2Tablespoonsof white sugar to make up a half cup of brown without altering the taste too much?

You can add 2 tablespoons of white sugar to 1/4 cup of brown sugar to make a half cup of brown sugar, but it won't taste exactly like the original brown sugar.

Here's why:

* Moisture: Brown sugar contains molasses, which gives it its characteristic color, flavor, and moisture. White sugar is pure sucrose and doesn't have molasses. Adding white sugar will dilute the molasses content, making the mixture less moist and slightly less flavorful.

* Flavor: Brown sugar has a distinct caramel-like flavor, which comes from the molasses. White sugar is very neutral in flavor. Adding white sugar will slightly reduce the intensity of the brown sugar flavor.

Here are some tips for a more successful substitution:

* Use light brown sugar: Light brown sugar has a lower molasses content than dark brown sugar, so it will be closer to the flavor of the mixture.

* Use packed brown sugar: Packed brown sugar will have more molasses than lightly packed brown sugar, which will help to balance out the addition of white sugar.

* Adjust to your taste: You may need to add a little more white sugar to reach the desired sweetness.

Alternatives:

If you want a more accurate brown sugar replacement, you can:

* Use a brown sugar substitute: These substitutes are usually made with white sugar and molasses and are designed to mimic the taste and texture of brown sugar.

* Make your own brown sugar: You can combine white sugar with molasses to make your own brown sugar.

Ultimately, the best approach depends on your desired level of accuracy and your willingness to experiment.