What does sugar do for a recipe?

* Sweetens food: This is the most obvious function of sugar, and it is what makes desserts and other sweet treats so enjoyable. Sugar provides a quick burst of energy, which is why many people crave sweets when they are feeling tired.

* Adds flavor: Sugar can enhance the flavor of other ingredients in a recipe, such as fruits, spices, and chocolate. It can also help to balance out salty or sour flavors.

* Brings out moisture: Sugar can help to keep baked goods moist, which is why it is often used in cakes, cookies, and breads. It also helps to prevent food from drying out during freezing or storage.

* Provides color: Sugar can caramelize when heated, which gives food a golden brown color. This is what gives baked goods their characteristic crust and color.

* Helps to preserve food: Sugar can help to preserve food by preventing the growth of bacteria and mold. This is why it is often used in jams, jellies, and other canned goods.

* Acts as a thickening agent: Sugar can help to thicken sauces, jams, and jellies. This is because sugar molecules bind to water molecules, which prevents the water from evaporating.

* Adds texture: Sugar can add a variety of textures to food, such as crunch, chewiness, and smoothness. This is why sugar is often used in candy, cookies, and frostings.