Sugar is a natural sweetener derived primarily from sugarcane or sugar beets, widely used to enhance the flavor of food and beverages. Its fine, crystalline texture and sweet taste make it a fundamental ingredient in both cooking and baking—used in everything from cakes and cookies to sauces and marinades. Beyond flavor, sugar also plays a role in texture, preservation, and color in various recipes. Whether white, brown, or powdered, sugar is a versatile pantry essential that brings balance, indulgence, and structure to countless culinary creations.