Grocery
Finely Ground Sweetener
What it is
This is a very fine sugar, made by grinding granulated sugar with a small amount of cornstarch. The cornstarch prevents clumping and keeps the sugar smooth. It dissolves easily, making it ideal for delicate applications where a gritty texture would be undesirable. 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 baked goods
- Making frosting
- Creating glazes
- Sweetening sauces
Powdered sugar is commonly used to make smooth, creamy frostings for cakes and cupcakes. It can be whisked with butter, cream cheese, or liquid to achieve the desired consistency. It's also excellent for dusting over pastries, cookies, and fruit for a simple, elegant finish. When making glazes, it is typically mixed with a small amount of liquid like milk or lemon juice until it forms a pourable consistency. It can also be sifted into doughs or batters for a subtle sweetness.
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 any grittiness to recipes. Granulated sugar is coarser and is typically used when a more distinct sugar texture is desired or when it needs to be creamed with fat.
Who it is for
Bakers and home cooks often reach for powdered sugar when they need a smooth, sweet finish.
How to keep the rest
To keep powdered sugar from clumping, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. If it does clump, you can sift it through a fine-mesh sieve to break up any hardened pieces before use.