Powdered Sugar Facts

Powdered sugar, also called confectioners' sugar, or icing sugar is a finely ground sugar produced by milling granulated sugar into a powdered state. It usually contains a small amount of anti-caking elements to prevent clumping and improve flow. 

Powdered sugar is utilized in industrial food production when a quick-dissolving sugar is required. Home cooks use it principally to make icing or frosting and other cake decorations. It is often dusted onto baked goods to add a subtle sweetness and delicate decoration.

Powdered sugar is available in varying degrees of fineness, most commonly XXX, XXXX, and 10X: the greater the number of Xs, the finer the particles.  Most powdered Sugar is Gluten Free, however check the bag or box, as there is starch in it and unless it says cornstarch or Gluten Free (which Domino's does) you might want to make your own.

What You Need

All you will need is a blender, measuring cup, a clean dish towel, sugar, and cornstarch if you choose to add. For each cup of confectioner's sugar needed use one cup of regular granulated sugar.

How to Make It

Put the granulated sugar into the blender and secure the lid. Place the dishtowel over the top of the blender to catch any powder "smoke." Blend using the pulse method until the sugar turns to powder. This method works best in small quantities, 1 to 2 cups at a time. 

If you are making even a smaller amount, alternatively you can use a coffee grinder, spice grinder, or mini-food processor. Just be mindful that the sugar crystals can scratch plastic, so consider carefully before making the powdered sugar in a plastic blender or processor.

Adding Cornstarch

Cornstarch or other additives are used in commercial products, so homemade may not taste the same as store bought. If the sugar's flavor doesn't match what you need, try adding 1 to 1 1/4 tablespoons of cornstarch for each cup of sugar. Blend along with the sugar.