Sugar bowls in porcelain, steel and glass – see the differences


Sugar bowls in porcelain, steel and glass – see the differences


A sugar bowl is a small but important detail in the kitchen and on the coffee table. It contributes both practically and aesthetically – whether you prefer classic porcelain, modern steel or elegant glass. The choice of material and design can affect both appearance and functionality. In this article, you’ll get an overview of the most common types of sugar bowls, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as inspiration for what to consider before choosing one.
The article presents a selection of sugar bowls in different materials and price ranges. The aim is to provide an overview of the variation in design, function and quality, so you can more easily find a sugar bowl that suits your home. The information about the products is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and is summarised to provide an informative and neutral overview.
Factors to consider when buying a sugar bowl
When choosing a sugar bowl, it’s not just about appearance. Material, size and functionality play a role in how it fits into your daily life.
1. Material and appearance
Porcelain provides a classic and timeless look that suits most tableware. Steel is robust and modern, while glass gives a light and elegant look. Consider which material best harmonises with your other table settings.
2. Lid and spoon
A lid protects the sugar from moisture and dust, and many models come with a small spoon or an opening in the lid. If you often serve coffee or tea to guests, a model with a spoon can be more practical.
3. Size and capacity
Sugar bowls come in many sizes – from small models for individual use to larger bowls suitable for gatherings. Consider how often you use sugar and how much you want to have on display.
4. Maintenance
Porcelain and glass are usually dishwasher safe, while steel may require wiping to avoid stains. If you want minimal maintenance, it may be an advantage to choose a material that is easy to clean.
5. Design and use
Some sugar bowls are part of a matching tableware set, while others function as standalone design objects. If you want a uniform look, you can choose a sugar bowl from the same series as your coffee set.
Products in focus

The Royal Copenhagen Star Fluted Christmas sugar bowl of 15 cl is part of the traditional Christmas collection, characterised by its white fluted porcelain and hand-painted decorations with Christmas motifs. The series is based on the classic fluted design but adds a warm and festive atmosphere through details such as ribbons and ornaments in red and golden tones.
The bowl is made of bone china, which provides a fine gloss and high durability. Its compact size makes it suitable for serving sugar or small sweet accompaniments on the coffee table during the Christmas season.
The design follows Royal Copenhagen's aesthetic, where tradition and craftsmanship go hand in hand. The sugar bowl can be combined with other parts of the Star Fluted Christmas series for a complete look on the Christmas table.
- Classic Christmas design: Part of Royal Copenhagen's Star Fluted Christmas series with hand-painted details.
- Bone china material: Provides an elegant gloss and high durability.
- Compact size: 15 cl capacity, ideal for sugar or small servings.
- Traditional design language: Based on the iconic fluted design from Royal Copenhagen.
Pros and cons
- Elegant and timeless design that suits the Christmas table setting
- Made of durable bone china
- Can be combined with other parts of the Star Fluted Christmas series
- The small capacity of 15 cl may be limiting for larger gatherings
- As porcelain, it requires careful handling to avoid chipping
Pros and cons
Pros
- Elegant and timeless design that suits the Christmas table setting
- Made of durable bone china
- Can be combined with other parts of the Star Fluted Christmas series
Cons
- The small capacity of 15 cl may be limiting for larger gatherings
- As porcelain, it requires careful handling to avoid chipping
Pros
- Elegant and timeless design that suits the Christmas table setting
- Made of durable bone china
- Can be combined with other parts of the Star Fluted Christmas series
Cons
- The small capacity of 15 cl may be limiting for larger gatherings
- As porcelain, it requires careful handling to avoid chipping
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Royal Copenhagen
- Series: Star Fluted Christmas
- Product type: Sugar bowl
- Capacity: 15 cl
- Material: Bone china
- Item number: 1021103
- EAN: 5705140729624

The Georg Jensen Bernadotte sugar bowl with spoon is part of the iconic Bernadotte collection, originally designed by Swedish prince and designer Sigvard Bernadotte in 1938. The series is known for its characteristic vertical grooves, reflecting inspiration from the Art Deco style.
The sugar bowl is made of polished stainless steel, giving it an elegant and durable appearance that suits both modern and classic table settings. The accompanying spoon is made of the same material and completes the look.
The design combines functionality and aesthetics, so the bowl can be used both practically for serving sugar and as a decorative element on the table.
- Material: Made of polished stainless steel for a durable and elegant look.
- Design: Vertical grooves inspired by the Art Deco style of the 1930s.
- Included spoon: Comes with a matching sugar spoon in the same material.
- Series: Part of Georg Jensen's Bernadotte collection designed by Sigvard Bernadotte.
- Compact size: Height 5.2 cm and diameter 7.9 cm – ideal for serving at the table.
Pros and cons
- Timeless design that suits many table settings
- Made of durable stainless steel
- Comes with a matching spoon
- Compact and practical size
- The metal surface may require polishing to maintain its shine
- Holds a smaller amount of sugar compared to larger bowls
Pros and cons
Pros
- Timeless design that suits many table settings
- Made of durable stainless steel
- Comes with a matching spoon
- Compact and practical size
Cons
- The metal surface may require polishing to maintain its shine
- Holds a smaller amount of sugar compared to larger bowls
Pros
- Timeless design that suits many table settings
- Made of durable stainless steel
- Comes with a matching spoon
- Compact and practical size
Cons
- The metal surface may require polishing to maintain its shine
- Holds a smaller amount of sugar compared to larger bowls
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Georg Jensen
- Series: Bernadotte
- Designer: Sigvard Bernadotte
- Material: Polished stainless steel
- Height: 5.2 cm
- Diameter: 7.9 cm
- Item number: 90000426
- EAN: 5713275065937

The Pillivuyt Plissé sugar bowl, 9 cm, is made of white porcelain and has a simple, classic design language. The bowl is part of the well-known Plissé series, which is inspired by Pillivuyt's early moulds from the early 1900s.
The characteristic pleated lines give the bowl an elegant and timeless look, making it suitable both as a sugar bowl and for serving small portions or side dishes.
The porcelain is known for its durability and resistance to temperature differences, making the bowl practical for everyday use while maintaining its aesthetic appearance.
- Elegant design: The pleated lines give a classic and refined look.
- Versatile use: Can be used as a sugar bowl or for small servings.
- Durable porcelain: Made of robust, white porcelain from Pillivuyt.
- Timeless series: Part of the iconic Plissé collection inspired by early moulds.
Pros and cons
- Classic and timeless design that matches many tableware sets
- Made of durable porcelain
- Suitable for both everyday use and serving
- Compact size, ideal for sugar or small portions
- The small size limits its use to smaller servings
- Porcelain requires careful handling to avoid chipping
Pros and cons
Pros
- Classic and timeless design that matches many tableware sets
- Made of durable porcelain
- Suitable for both everyday use and serving
- Compact size, ideal for sugar or small portions
Cons
- The small size limits its use to smaller servings
- Porcelain requires careful handling to avoid chipping
Pros
- Classic and timeless design that matches many tableware sets
- Made of durable porcelain
- Suitable for both everyday use and serving
- Compact size, ideal for sugar or small portions
Cons
- The small size limits its use to smaller servings
- Porcelain requires careful handling to avoid chipping
Specifications
- Series: Plissé
- Manufacturer: Pillivuyt
- Diameter: 9 cm
- Capacity: 18 cl
- Colour: White
- Material: Porcelain
- Item number: 514209
- EAN: 3050910236201

The Royal Copenhagen Princess sugar bowl with lid is part of the well-known Princess series, which combines classic porcelain craftsmanship with an elegant and timeless expression. The bowl is made of porcelain and has a capacity of 20 cl, making it suitable for serving sugar at the coffee table or as a decorative part of the tableware.
The design was created by Arnold Krog and is characterised by the hand-painted details and the distinctive blue rim, which is typical of Royal Copenhagen porcelain. The hand-glazed surface gives an exclusive look and emphasises the traditional craftsmanship for which the series is known.
The set consists of both bowl and lid, which together form a harmonious whole in the classic Princess design. It can be combined with other parts of the series for a complete table setting.
- Design by Arnold Krog: Classic design with hand-painted details.
- Material: Made of porcelain with a hand-glazed surface.
- Capacity: 20 cl – ideal size for sugar or small servings.
- Part of the Princess series: Matches other pieces in Royal Copenhagen’s collection.
- Timeless expression: Combines traditional craftsmanship with elegant design.
Pros and cons
- Hand-painted and hand-glazed porcelain of high quality
- Classic design that matches many tableware sets
- Comes with a lid for practical storage
- Suitable for both everyday use and special occasions
- Porcelain requires careful handling to avoid chipping
- The 20 cl capacity may be limited for larger gatherings
Pros and cons
Pros
- Hand-painted and hand-glazed porcelain of high quality
- Classic design that matches many tableware sets
- Comes with a lid for practical storage
- Suitable for both everyday use and special occasions
Cons
- Porcelain requires careful handling to avoid chipping
- The 20 cl capacity may be limited for larger gatherings
Pros
- Hand-painted and hand-glazed porcelain of high quality
- Classic design that matches many tableware sets
- Comes with a lid for practical storage
- Suitable for both everyday use and special occasions
Cons
- Porcelain requires careful handling to avoid chipping
- The 20 cl capacity may be limited for larger gatherings
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Royal Copenhagen
- Series: Princess
- Designer: Arnold Krog
- Material: Porcelain
- Colour: White with blue decoration
- Capacity: 20 cl
- Item number: 1017252
- EAN: 5705140161332
Product descriptions

The Royal Copenhagen Star Fluted Christmas sugar bowl of 15 cl is part of the traditional Christmas collection, characterised by its white fluted porcelain and hand-painted decorations with Christmas motifs. The series is based on the classic fluted design but adds a warm and festive atmosphere through details such as ribbons and ornaments in red and golden tones.
The bowl is made of bone china, which provides a fine gloss and high durability. Its compact size makes it suitable for serving sugar or small sweet accompaniments on the coffee table during the Christmas season.
The design follows Royal Copenhagen's aesthetic, where tradition and craftsmanship go hand in hand. The sugar bowl can be combined with other parts of the Star Fluted Christmas series for a complete look on the Christmas table.
- Classic Christmas design: Part of Royal Copenhagen's Star Fluted Christmas series with hand-painted details.
- Bone china material: Provides an elegant gloss and high durability.
- Compact size: 15 cl capacity, ideal for sugar or small servings.
- Traditional design language: Based on the iconic fluted design from Royal Copenhagen.
Pros and cons
- Elegant and timeless design that suits the Christmas table setting
- Made of durable bone china
- Can be combined with other parts of the Star Fluted Christmas series
- The small capacity of 15 cl may be limiting for larger gatherings
- As porcelain, it requires careful handling to avoid chipping
Pros and cons
Pros
- Elegant and timeless design that suits the Christmas table setting
- Made of durable bone china
- Can be combined with other parts of the Star Fluted Christmas series
Cons
- The small capacity of 15 cl may be limiting for larger gatherings
- As porcelain, it requires careful handling to avoid chipping
Pros
- Elegant and timeless design that suits the Christmas table setting
- Made of durable bone china
- Can be combined with other parts of the Star Fluted Christmas series
Cons
- The small capacity of 15 cl may be limiting for larger gatherings
- As porcelain, it requires careful handling to avoid chipping
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Royal Copenhagen
- Series: Star Fluted Christmas
- Product type: Sugar bowl
- Capacity: 15 cl
- Material: Bone china
- Item number: 1021103
- EAN: 5705140729624

The Georg Jensen Bernadotte sugar bowl with spoon is part of the iconic Bernadotte collection, originally designed by Swedish prince and designer Sigvard Bernadotte in 1938. The series is known for its characteristic vertical grooves, reflecting inspiration from the Art Deco style.
The sugar bowl is made of polished stainless steel, giving it an elegant and durable appearance that suits both modern and classic table settings. The accompanying spoon is made of the same material and completes the look.
The design combines functionality and aesthetics, so the bowl can be used both practically for serving sugar and as a decorative element on the table.
- Material: Made of polished stainless steel for a durable and elegant look.
- Design: Vertical grooves inspired by the Art Deco style of the 1930s.
- Included spoon: Comes with a matching sugar spoon in the same material.
- Series: Part of Georg Jensen's Bernadotte collection designed by Sigvard Bernadotte.
- Compact size: Height 5.2 cm and diameter 7.9 cm – ideal for serving at the table.
Pros and cons
- Timeless design that suits many table settings
- Made of durable stainless steel
- Comes with a matching spoon
- Compact and practical size
- The metal surface may require polishing to maintain its shine
- Holds a smaller amount of sugar compared to larger bowls
Pros and cons
Pros
- Timeless design that suits many table settings
- Made of durable stainless steel
- Comes with a matching spoon
- Compact and practical size
Cons
- The metal surface may require polishing to maintain its shine
- Holds a smaller amount of sugar compared to larger bowls
Pros
- Timeless design that suits many table settings
- Made of durable stainless steel
- Comes with a matching spoon
- Compact and practical size
Cons
- The metal surface may require polishing to maintain its shine
- Holds a smaller amount of sugar compared to larger bowls
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Georg Jensen
- Series: Bernadotte
- Designer: Sigvard Bernadotte
- Material: Polished stainless steel
- Height: 5.2 cm
- Diameter: 7.9 cm
- Item number: 90000426
- EAN: 5713275065937

The Pillivuyt Plissé sugar bowl, 9 cm, is made of white porcelain and has a simple, classic design language. The bowl is part of the well-known Plissé series, which is inspired by Pillivuyt's early moulds from the early 1900s.
The characteristic pleated lines give the bowl an elegant and timeless look, making it suitable both as a sugar bowl and for serving small portions or side dishes.
The porcelain is known for its durability and resistance to temperature differences, making the bowl practical for everyday use while maintaining its aesthetic appearance.
- Elegant design: The pleated lines give a classic and refined look.
- Versatile use: Can be used as a sugar bowl or for small servings.
- Durable porcelain: Made of robust, white porcelain from Pillivuyt.
- Timeless series: Part of the iconic Plissé collection inspired by early moulds.
Pros and cons
- Classic and timeless design that matches many tableware sets
- Made of durable porcelain
- Suitable for both everyday use and serving
- Compact size, ideal for sugar or small portions
- The small size limits its use to smaller servings
- Porcelain requires careful handling to avoid chipping
Pros and cons
Pros
- Classic and timeless design that matches many tableware sets
- Made of durable porcelain
- Suitable for both everyday use and serving
- Compact size, ideal for sugar or small portions
Cons
- The small size limits its use to smaller servings
- Porcelain requires careful handling to avoid chipping
Pros
- Classic and timeless design that matches many tableware sets
- Made of durable porcelain
- Suitable for both everyday use and serving
- Compact size, ideal for sugar or small portions
Cons
- The small size limits its use to smaller servings
- Porcelain requires careful handling to avoid chipping
Specifications
- Series: Plissé
- Manufacturer: Pillivuyt
- Diameter: 9 cm
- Capacity: 18 cl
- Colour: White
- Material: Porcelain
- Item number: 514209
- EAN: 3050910236201

The Royal Copenhagen Princess sugar bowl with lid is part of the well-known Princess series, which combines classic porcelain craftsmanship with an elegant and timeless expression. The bowl is made of porcelain and has a capacity of 20 cl, making it suitable for serving sugar at the coffee table or as a decorative part of the tableware.
The design was created by Arnold Krog and is characterised by the hand-painted details and the distinctive blue rim, which is typical of Royal Copenhagen porcelain. The hand-glazed surface gives an exclusive look and emphasises the traditional craftsmanship for which the series is known.
The set consists of both bowl and lid, which together form a harmonious whole in the classic Princess design. It can be combined with other parts of the series for a complete table setting.
- Design by Arnold Krog: Classic design with hand-painted details.
- Material: Made of porcelain with a hand-glazed surface.
- Capacity: 20 cl – ideal size for sugar or small servings.
- Part of the Princess series: Matches other pieces in Royal Copenhagen’s collection.
- Timeless expression: Combines traditional craftsmanship with elegant design.
Pros and cons
- Hand-painted and hand-glazed porcelain of high quality
- Classic design that matches many tableware sets
- Comes with a lid for practical storage
- Suitable for both everyday use and special occasions
- Porcelain requires careful handling to avoid chipping
- The 20 cl capacity may be limited for larger gatherings
Pros and cons
Pros
- Hand-painted and hand-glazed porcelain of high quality
- Classic design that matches many tableware sets
- Comes with a lid for practical storage
- Suitable for both everyday use and special occasions
Cons
- Porcelain requires careful handling to avoid chipping
- The 20 cl capacity may be limited for larger gatherings
Pros
- Hand-painted and hand-glazed porcelain of high quality
- Classic design that matches many tableware sets
- Comes with a lid for practical storage
- Suitable for both everyday use and special occasions
Cons
- Porcelain requires careful handling to avoid chipping
- The 20 cl capacity may be limited for larger gatherings
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Royal Copenhagen
- Series: Princess
- Designer: Arnold Krog
- Material: Porcelain
- Colour: White with blue decoration
- Capacity: 20 cl
- Item number: 1017252
- EAN: 5705140161332
Different types of sugar bowls
Sugar bowls come in many shapes and materials, each with its own advantages and aesthetic expression.
1. Porcelain sugar bowls
Porcelain is the classic choice, suitable for both everyday use and festive occasions. It is durable, easy to clean and available in many designs – from minimalist to decorated models.
2. Stainless steel sugar bowls
Steel gives a modern and industrial feel. It is particularly suitable for kitchens with a clean look and withstands daily use without damage. Many models have lids that protect the sugar from moisture.
3. Glass sugar bowls
Glass is elegant and makes it easy to see how much sugar is left. They are available in both clear and coloured glass and can give a light and airy look to the table. However, glass can be more fragile than other materials.
4. Ceramic and stoneware sugar bowls
These types often have a more rustic and handcrafted look. They go well with Nordic or country-style interiors and can create a warm and personal atmosphere.
5. Combined materials
Some sugar bowls combine materials – for example, glass with a bamboo lid or steel with porcelain. This creates an interesting visual expression and can unite the best of several worlds.
Different brands of sugar bowls
There are many manufacturers offering sugar bowls in different styles and materials.
Royal Copenhagen
Royal Copenhagen is known for its classic porcelain designs with hand-painted details. Their sugar bowls often match the iconic tableware and are perfect for an elegant coffee table.
Stelton
Stelton offers modern and functional sugar bowls in stainless steel and plastic. The design is minimalist and suits the Scandinavian kitchen well.
Rosendahl
Rosendahl combines simplicity and functionality in its products. Their sugar bowls in glass and porcelain are popular choices for both everyday use and special occasions.
Bodum
Bodum is known for glass products with a modern twist. Their sugar bowls often have a practical design with a lid and spoon, matching the tea and coffee brewers in the same series.
Kähler
Kähler offers sugar bowls in ceramic materials with an artistic expression. They are ideal for those who want a more personal and decorative element on the table.
Frequently asked questions
Which material is best for a sugar bowl?
It depends on your preferences. Porcelain is classic and versatile, steel is robust and modern, while glass gives a light and elegant look. Choose based on both function and aesthetics.
Should a sugar bowl have a lid?
A lid protects the sugar from moisture and dust, but it’s not a requirement. If the sugar bowl is kept out for daily use, a lid is a practical advantage.
Are sugar bowls dishwasher safe?
Most porcelain and glass sugar bowls are dishwasher safe, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions. Sugar bowls made of steel or with wooden parts should often be washed by hand.
How do you prevent the sugar from clumping?
Keep the sugar bowl dry and with a lid. If you live in a humid climate, you can place a small piece of rice paper at the bottom to absorb moisture.
Can a sugar bowl be used for anything other than sugar?
Yes, many people use sugar bowls for small items such as tea bags, sweeteners or biscuits. This makes them a versatile element in the kitchen.










