How to Make Homemade Powdered Sugar

Welcome back to our Homemade Pantry series! Today, we’re diving into how you can easily make your own powdered sugar right at home. Skip the trip to the store and whip up a batch in just a few minutes using only two ingredients. Homemade powdered sugar is perfect for baking, frosting, dusting desserts, and more.

Ingredients for Homemade Powdered Sugar

You only need two simple ingredients to create soft, fluffy powdered sugar:

• 1 cup white granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

The cornstarch is important because it keeps the sugar from clumping together during storage, helping it stay light and powdery.

Tools You’ll Need

To achieve the right texture, you’ll need a spice grinder. Spice grinders are perfect for this job because they can grind sugar very finely, creating that classic, soft powdered sugar texture you’re looking for.

If your grinder is small, it’s totally fine to work in batches and combine everything in a bowl afterward. I like to give it a quick whisk or sift just to ensure everything is super fine.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Add the granulated sugar and cornstarch to your spice grinder.
2. Grind for about 15 seconds or until the sugar has a light, powdery texture.
3. If needed, grind a little longer to eliminate any grittiness.
4. Store the finished powdered sugar in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Food processors usually don’t grind sugar finely enough for this recipe unless they have a specific high-speed setting for making powders, so stick with a spice grinder for best results.

Is Confectioner’s Sugar The Same As Powdered Sugar?

Yes, confectioner’s sugar and powdered sugar are the same thing. You might also hear it called icing sugar, especially outside the United States. No matter the name, it’s simply very finely ground sugar mixed with a little cornstarch to prevent clumping. So, whether a recipe calls for powdered sugar or confectioner’s sugar, you can use them interchangeably.

Why Does Powdered Sugar Have Cornstarch?

Cornstarch acts as an anti-caking agent. Without it, your powdered sugar could absorb moisture from the air and start to clump together. The cornstarch keeps it free-flowing and easy to measure, sprinkle, and blend into frostings and batters. It also helps give frostings a smoother texture.

Helpful Measuring Tips

When measuring homemade powdered sugar, keep in mind that one cup of granulated sugar will make about one cup of powdered sugar once ground. However, powdered sugar is lighter and fluffier, so always spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off rather than packing it down. For very precise baking recipes, consider sifting it first to remove any lumps before measuring.

How Long Does Powdered Sugar Last?

Homemade powdered sugar can last up to three months when stored properly. Sometimes it can last even longer if kept in a very dry environment. Always check it before using — if it looks clumpy but still smells and tastes fine, just sift it before adding to your recipe.

Can Powdered Sugar Go Bad?

Powdered sugar doesn’t spoil easily, but it can absorb odors or moisture from the environment, which can affect the flavor and texture. If your powdered sugar smells off or has hardened into one big lump, it’s time to make a fresh batch. Otherwise, if it still looks and smells normal, it’s good to go.

How to Store Homemade Powdered Sugar

Store your homemade powdered sugar in an airtight container in a cool, dry spot, away from any heat or moisture sources. I do not recommend freezing it because sugar can attract moisture once thawed, causing it to clump and harden. A simple kitchen canister or mason jar works perfectly for keeping it fresh and ready to use.

Ways to Use Homemade Powdered Sugar

Homemade powdered sugar can be used in so many recipes, including:

• Buttercream frosting
• Glazes for cakes, donuts, or scones
• Dusting over brownies, cookies, or French toast
• Sweetening whipped cream
• Making homemade marshmallows
• Stirring into hot chocolate for an extra-smooth texture

Having a fresh batch of homemade powdered sugar in your pantry makes baking from scratch even easier and more satisfying.

Stay tuned for more Homemade Pantry recipes and tips to help you stock your kitchen with homemade essentials you can feel good about!