Step 1

Soak the terra cotta in cold water for 20 minutes. Blot with a paper towel to remove any surface moisture. Place directly in the sugar in an airtight container. The sugar will soften in about 24 hours. Break up with a fork. Keep terra cotta in the container. It will prevent clumping for about 3 to 6 months. Resoak when needed to maintain the moistness of the sugar.

Step 2

Place a slice of fresh bread in an airtight container with the hardened sugar. After about 24 hours, break up the sugar with a fork. Remove to bread shortly after, as it can mold.

Step 3

Add one apple slice or two for larger amounts directly on top of the sugar. It will take about 8 hours to soften. Break up with a fork. Do not leave the apple in for longer than 24 hours. Discard the slice after using it.

Step 4

Add the hardened sugar to a large resealable plastic bag. For every 8 ounces (about 1 ¼ cup) of sugar, sprinkle 3/4 teaspoon of water on top. Press out the air, seal, and wait 10 minutes. After the time has passed, massage the sugar to evenly distribute the moisture and further break up the clumps.

Step 5

Place the sugar on a pie plate or baking dish, ensuring it does not touch the edges. Heat the hardened brown sugar in a 250ºF (121ºC) oven, checking every minute, using a fork to break it down, for up to 5 minutes. Do not overheat, or the sugar will melt once it reaches 340ºF (171ºC). The brown sugar will be hot! Let it cool down, then use it immediately.

Step 6

Use a handheld grater or box grater to break the hardened bricks or large clumps. Place the grater on top of a sturdy bowl or plate. Use the largest holes to grate the sugar. Take your time, and be careful when grating the hardened block or clump.

Step 7

Add the sugar clumps or break the brick into smaller pieces to fit in the food processor. Pulse until the sugar is in smaller granules. Alternatively, add up to 1/4 cup at a time in a coffee grinder or 1/2 cup to a blender. Work in batches as needed.

Step 8

Add the sugar to a microwave-safe bowl. Dampen a few layers of paper towel with water, then place them on top of the bowl. Microwave in 10-second intervals on the high setting until softened, breaking up with a fork in between. Do not warm past 340ºF (171ºC), or the sugar will melt! It will be hot. Cool before using immediately.