The word Demerara means "river of sugar" in a specific dialect of the indigenous peoples of South America. The region was wealthy in sugarcane plantations in ancient times. Demerara sugar is produced by pressing the stalks of sugarcane, and the resulting juice is dried. Demerara sugar crystals have a crunchy texture and a strong caramel aroma. It can be used to sweeten all kinds of foods and culinary preparations that require a sweetener, adding a distinctive caramel flavor. It can be added to tea, coffee, breakfast cereals, milk, and creams. It is also successfully used in pastry and confectionery products. You can sprinkle it on top of cakes and tarts, as it creates a slightly crushed and very tasty crust when baking.