Turbinado sugar is derived from sugar cane, but contains some molasses from the refining process. This accounts for its caramel color.

Taste-wise, turbinado sugar has a caramel flavor, too; it's stronger than light or dark brown sugar. The molasses taste makes it feel slightly rich. Also Turbinado's sugar crystals are larger than those in regular brown sugars, as well. "It has a granular texture to it," note that this sweetener is layered in both texture and taste. "It's brown sugar with a bolder personality."