Grocery
Finely Ground Sweetener for Baking
What it is
This is a very fine sugar made by grinding granulated sugar with a small amount of cornstarch. The cornstarch is added to prevent clumping and keep the sugar free-flowing. It has a smooth texture that dissolves easily, making it ideal for delicate preparations. It is a staple in many baking pantries.
How people cook with it
Powdered sugar is essential for creating smooth frostings and glazes. It also adds a delicate sweetness to baked goods.
- Dusting cakes and pastries
- Making smooth buttercream frosting
- Creating delicate glazes
- Sweetening whipped cream
When making frosting, sift the powdered sugar to remove any lumps before adding it to butter or cream cheese. This ensures a silky smooth texture. For glazes, whisk it with liquid like milk or lemon juice until it reaches the desired consistency. It can also be sifted directly onto baked goods for a decorative finish. In some recipes, it is creamed with butter to form the base of cookies and cakes, contributing to a tender crumb.
How it differs from similar foods
Unlike granulated sugar, powdered sugar is much finer and contains cornstarch. This makes it dissolve instantly and prevents it from adding a gritty texture to frostings and glazes. Granulated sugar, being coarser, is better suited for applications where a slight crunch or slower dissolution is desired.
Who it is for
Bakers and home cooks who enjoy creating desserts and sweet treats will find this ingredient indispensable.
How to keep the rest
To keep it from clumping, store powdered sugar in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. If it does become lumpy, you can sift it to break up the clumps before use. Ensure the lid is tightly sealed after each use to maintain its fine texture.