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What Is Pearl Sugar?

Pearl sugar, also called nib sugar or hail sugar, is a coarse Scandinavian sugar. It is able to withstand melting due to moisture or heat much better than other forms of sugar, hence its appeal for baking and decorating purposes.

  1. Characteristics

    • Pearl sugar comes in a variety of different sizes, ranging from the size of coarse sea salt grains to larger items like peas or macadamia nuts. The granules are rounded but are not perfectly spherical, and they resemble a heavily compacted confectioner's sugar. Because pearl sugar is compacted, it does not melt or dissolve as easily as other kinds of sugars.

    Uses

    • Pearl sugar is used primarily for baking and decorating food items. The sugar granules add sweetness and crunch to various treats, and because they do not melt easily, they make for a nice decorative touch atop breads and pastries.

    Where to Purchase

    • Pearl sugar is not typically available in ordinary supermarkets unless you live in Scandinavia or certain other parts of Europe. Search for it in specialty stores and supermarkets that carry world imports, or order it online from international or specialty retailers.

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