SOFTENING ROCK HARD SUGAR OR ALMOND PASTE

Lynn F. (Q&A ID 3929)

Occasionally I end up with a sugar or almond paste "rock." In lieu of tossing it, I have softened it by adding a piece of bread for a day or two, in an airtight container. The moisture in the bread returns the original texture of the item. Is there a better way to accomplish this? Is there a reason I should not use bread, and instead go ahead and toss the offending ingredient?

Thanks!

Lynn C. (Q&A ID 662)

Hi Lynn - You've got the right idea by using a piece of bread. For both, make sure to keep them stored as airtight as possible. You could also try a sugar saver for storing brown sugar. These work pretty well and are fairly inexpensive. They even sell plastic containers now with a sugar saver built in, which are an even better deal. Best, Lynn C.

Daniel P. (Q&A ID 4146)

Will apple slices work?

Lynn C. (Q&A ID 662)

Yes, an apple slice will work too, but I'd rather use the heel of bread that I otherwise wouldn't be using than slice into an apple (unless I was already planning to eat the apple, of course!).