Granulated sugar, also known as white sugar or table sugar, is the most common and basic type of sugar used in cooking and baking. It consists of small, dry sugar crystals with a grainy texture similar to salt. Granulated sugar is refined from either sugarcane or sugar beet juice and contains almost pure sucrose (a disaccharide made of glucose and fructose). It has a neutral sweet flavor without any competing flavors. This sugar dissolves easily in fats and liquids, making it ideal for use in batters and doughs where a smooth texture is desired. Granulated sugar is different from cane sugar, which is less refined with larger crystals and a slight molasses flavor, and from caster sugar, which has finer crystals and dissolves more quickly. In baking, granulated sugar is preferred for its ability to dissolve easily and provide sweetness without altering the flavor profile of the recipe. It's the standard sugar that recipes call for when they simply list "sugar." It is also used for making toffee and other preparations where a granulated texture is suitable. In summary, granulated sugar is a purified, refined sucrose sugar with medium- sized crystals commonly used as a versatile sweetener in various culinary applications. It is the standard white sugar most people are familiar with and keep in their kitchens.