How To Clean Burnt Sugar From The Oven: Insider Tips (2023)

Last Updated on July 25, 2023 by Lori Walker

Even the best chefs can encounter a sticky situation when cleaning burnt sugar from their ovens. But fear not! 

I have firsthand experience dealing with this challenge and can guide you through simple steps to restore your oven’s shine. 

We’ll learn how to clean burnt sugar from the oven and make it sparkle again. Read on.

Guide On How To Clean Burnt Sugar From Oven

1. Allow the oven to cool: Ensure the oven is completely cool before cleaning burnt sugar [1] stains. Cleaning a hot oven can be dangerous, so exercise caution.
2. Create a cleaning solution: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This simple yet effective solution will help loosen the burnt sugar residue.
3. Spray the solution: Liberally spray the vinegar and water solution onto the burnt sugar stains in your oven. Please focus on the affected areas, ensuring they are well-coated. Let the solution sit for a few minutes to penetrate and loosen the residue.
4. Gently scrub the stains: Use a non-abrasive sponge or a soft cloth to scrub the affected areas gently. Employ a circular motion while applying moderate pressure. Be careful not to scratch or damage the oven’s surfaces.
5. Remove stubborn residue (optional): For tougher stains, you can use a plastic scraper or a soft-bristle brush to assist in removing the burnt sugar residue. Use these tools with caution to avoid scratching the oven’s surfaces.
6. Clean the oven racks separately: Remove the oven racks and clean them separately. Soak them in a mixture of warm water and dish soap. Use a sponge or a scrub brush to remove any burnt-on residue. Rinse the racks thoroughly with water and allow them to dry before placing them back in the oven.
7. Wipe down and dry: After scrubbing the oven and removing the burnt sugar residue, dampen a clean cloth or sponge with water and wipe down the surfaces to remove any remaining cleaning solution or residue. Finally, use a dry cloth or towel to dry the oven completely.

Read: Simple Steps To Fix F10 On The Oven

How Does Burnt Sugar End Up In Your Oven?

Burnt sugar can end up in your oven through spills or accidents while cooking or baking. 

“Everybody’s got their poison, and mine is sugar.”

– American Professional Basketball Player Derrick Rose

For example, if a sweet sauce or glaze drips onto the oven floor or a sugary dessert overflows, the sugar can melt and stick to the oven surfaces. 

As the oven heats up, the sugar caramelizes and forms stubborn stains that require thorough cleaning. But how can you clean oven glass without baking soda?

How Can You Loosen The Burnt Sugar Residue?

You can create a simple solution to loosen burnt sugar residue in your oven. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. 

Spray this solution generously onto the burnt sugar stains. Let it sit for a few minutes to penetrate and loosen the residue. The vinegar helps break down the sticky sugar, making it easier to remove.

“With the right tools and a sprinkle of determination, you’ll wipe away those caramel remnants, revealing a spotless oven ready to create culinary magic again.”

– Leonelli Bakery

What Tools Can You Use To Scrub Away The Burnt Sugar?

1. Non-abrasive sponge: Choose a non-abrasive sponge with a soft texture. It will be gentle on the oven surfaces while scrubbing away the burnt sugar residue. Use it in conjunction with the cleaning solution to scrub the stains gently.
2. Soft cloth: A soft cloth, such as a microfiber cloth [2] or an old t-shirt, can also effectively scrub off burnt sugar. Dampen the cloth with the cleaning solution and gently rub the affected areas to remove the residue.
3. Plastic scraper: For tougher stains that are more stubborn, you can use a plastic scraper. This tool helps to scrape off the burnt sugar without scratching or damaging the oven surfaces. Be cautious and gentle while using the scraper.
4. Soft-bristle brush: In some cases, a soft-bristle brush can assist in scrubbing away stubborn burnt sugar residue. Choose a brush with soft bristles to avoid scratching the oven surfaces. Use it alongside the cleaning solution to gently scrub the stains.

Also Read: Why Does Your Oven Smell Like Burnt Plastic?

FAQs

In Conclusion

Cleaning burnt sugar from your oven may feel overwhelming, but fear not! You can bid farewell to those stubborn stains with a few simple steps. 

Let the oven cool completely, make a vinegar and water solution, spray it on the stains, and let it sit for a while. 

Then, gently scrub the residue using a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Remember to clean the oven racks separately. 

Embrace this cleaning journey and restore your oven to its sparkling glory, ready for your next culinary adventure.

References:

1. https://www.theguardian.com/books/2020/sep/26/burnt-sugar-by-avni-doshi-review-electrifyingly-truthful
2. https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/guides/how-to-use-microfiber-cloth-to-clean-devices/