Demerara (also called raw or turbinado) sugar is a type of cane sugar with large, crunchy crystals and a slightly amber color. It has a natural caramel-like flavor and is often used to add texture and sweetness to the tops or exterior of baked goods like pecan shortbread cookies and butterscotch pecan scones. If you don't have it on hand, you can substitute light or dark brown sugar, or simply omit it.