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Powdered sugar substitute

Powdered sugar is granulated sugar ground to a fine powder with a little cornstarch to stop clumping. A blender makes a near-identical version in about a minute.

The recipe calls for

of powdered sugar. Every swap below is sized for that amount.

  1. Granulated sugar + cornstarch, blended

    Standard
    • 1 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 tbsp cornstarch

    Blend on high 1–2 minutes until powdery. Let the dust settle before opening, then sift.

    Best for: Frosting, glaze, dusting.

  2. Granulated sugar alone, blended

    • 1 cup granulated sugar

    Blend until fine; use promptly as it clumps.

    Best for: Glazes and whipped cream.

Choosing the right swap

Grinding breaks crystals down so they dissolve instantly, which is what makes frostings smooth rather than gritty.

Missing powdered sugar? Ask about your dish

Tell us what you’re making and what you’re missing. You’ll get a swap sized for your dish and a note on how it will change the result.

0/600 · answers come from an AI model, so double-check anything safety-related with a thermometer.

Questions cooks ask

Can I use granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar in frosting?

Not without grinding it first; unground sugar makes gritty frosting.

Does 1 cup granulated make 1 cup powdered?

It makes a little more, about 1¾ cups loosely, because powder packs less densely. Measure after blending.