Sweeteners, Baking | Vegan Gluten Free

Icing Sugar

Saccharum officinarum Allergen-Free
icing sugar

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Poaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Sugarcane, Sugar beet, Cornstarch

The Forktionary Angle

"The Fine Art of Frosting: Unleashing Icing Sugar's Potential"

Definition

Finely powdered granulated sugar, typically blended with a small amount of cornstarch to prevent caking, used for icings, dusting, and confectionery.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Pure sugar taste
TextureFine powder, Smooth (when dissolved), Slightly gritty (when dry)
AromaNone to very mild sweet
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Particle Size

~20-60 micrometers

Primary Culinary Application

Frostings, Glazes, Dusting

Typical Shelf Life (Airtight, Dry)

Indefinite (quality best within 1-2 years)

Nutrition Facts

Per 15g (1 tbsp)
Calories389 kcal
Total Fat0g
Saturated Fat0g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein0g
Total Carbohydrate100g
Dietary Fiber0g
Total Sugars97g
Calcium0mg
Iron0mg
Potassium2mg

Chef’s Secret

Sift icing sugar before using in frostings to remove any lumps and ensure a silky smooth texture.

Substitutions

Best Match

Granulated Sugar (blended)

1:1 (by weight, then blend)

Can be made by processing granulated sugar in a blender with cornstarch for texture, but lacks commercial fineness.

Superfine Sugar (Castor Sugar)

1:1

Finer than granulated, dissolves faster, but not as powdery as icing sugar for smooth icings.

Erythritol (powdered)

1.25:1

Sugar-free alternative, zero calories, but can have a cooling sensation.

Cornstarch (for texture)

Varies

Only for thickening or preventing caking, not a substitute for sweetness.

Buying Guide

Look for brands specifying '10X' for the finest grind. Store in an airtight container to prevent caking.

Flavor Pairings

Cakes cookies glazes frostings donuts fruits.

Recipes Using Icing Sugar

Holiday Event Yeast Course Easter

Abm Hot Cross Buns

Enjoy the taste of traditional Hot Cross Buns without the endless hours in the kitchen! This recipe utilizes your Abm (bread maker) to streamline the process, making it perfect for busy bakers. A simple yet elegant glaze elevates these perfectly spiced buns. Get ready for fluffy, aromatic, and incredibly delicious hot cross buns in less time than you think!

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Occasion Kid Friendly Food Processor Blender Winter

All Natural Hot Chocolate Mix

Indulge in the rich, decadent flavor of this homemade all-natural hot chocolate mix! No artificial ingredients or chemical-laden powders here – just pure, wholesome goodness. Perfect for a cozy night in or a delightful treat any time of day. This simple recipe, inspired by a serendipitous discovery in a dentist's office waiting room, creates a velvety smooth hot chocolate that's as delicious as it is healthy. Make your own mix today and savor the difference!

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Low In Something Fruit Time To Make Course

Almond Citrus Coconut Tart With Gluten Free Option

Indulge in this dreamy Almond Citrus Coconut Tart! A delightful twist on the classic impossible pie, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and boasts a luxuriously moist and dense texture. The vibrant citrus flavors (use any combination you like – lemons, limes, mandarins, oranges!) perfectly complement the creamy almond and coconut base. Enjoy this chilled dessert masterpiece, easily adaptable for gluten-free diets using a simple flour swap. Prepare to be amazed!

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For Large Groups For Large Groups Desserts Course

Amaretto Snowballs

Indulge in the irresistible charm of Amaretto Snowballs – a family tradition, reimagined! These melt-in-your-mouth cookies are surprisingly easy to make, boasting a delightful almond flavor and delicate sweetness. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, these bite-sized treats will become your new favorite!

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60 Minutes Or Less Course Desserts Preparation

Apple And Cinnamon Clafouti

Indulge in this delightful, lighter take on the classic French clafouti! Inspired by Super Food Ideas magazine, this recipe uses a simple combination of apples and cinnamon baked in a creamy, subtly sweet custard. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a light dessert, it's surprisingly low-fat and utterly irresistible. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make, elegant treat!

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Low Sodium Healthy Time To Make Apples

Apple And Cinnamon Sponge Pudding

Indulge in this delightful Apple & Cinnamon Sponge Pudding! This recipe, adapted from a magazine, creates a warm, comforting dessert with a fluffy sponge and tender, spiced apples. Using canned pie apples (800g) for convenience, this recipe is perfect for a cozy evening. The hot apple filling is topped with a light and airy sponge, ensuring a perfectly risen bake. Serve warm with custard or ice cream for a truly decadent treat. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe!

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Polish 4 Hours Or Less Low Sodium Polish

Apple Squares Babcia's Apple Pie

A taste of childhood! This recipe for Babcia's Apple Squares is a comforting twist on classic apple pie. Sweet, subtly spiced, and bursting with the flavor of fresh apples, these squares get even better as they sit, making them perfect for baking ahead. Relive cherished memories with each bite of this nostalgic dessert.

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60 Minutes Or Less Dietary Number Of Servings Low Fat

Apricot Clafouti

This simple Apricot Clafouti is the perfect make-ahead dessert! Prep it in minutes while dinner simmers, then pop it in the oven for a golden, puffed delight that's ready before your guests are even finished eating. A burst of apricot flavor in a creamy custard base – irresistible!

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Holiday Event Occasion Danish Desserts

Auntie Barbara's Yummy Easy Danish Pastry

A family favorite recipe passed down through generations! This impressive yet easy-to-make Danish pastry is perfect for any occasion. Crispy, flaky layers meet a delicious almond-flavored custard topping. Detailed step-by-step photos guide you through the process, ensuring picture-perfect results every time. This recipe yields one large tray-baked pastry, easily sliced into servings. (Note: Almond extract is stronger than almond essence; adjust quantity to taste.)

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1 Day Or More 1 Day Or More German Desserts

Authentic Black Forest Cake Schwarzwald Kirsch Kuchen

Indulge in the true taste of Germany with this authentic Black Forest Cake recipe! Unlike its overly sweet North American counterparts, this Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte boasts a sophisticated balance of deep, rich flavors and a delightful kick of Kirsch (cherry brandy). Made with fresh cherries (or high-quality canned Bing cherries – absolutely NO pie filling!), this recipe is a decadent dessert for adults only. If Kirsch is unavailable, cherry juice can be substituted, though the experience won't be quite the same. Prepare for a truly unforgettable culinary journey!

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Time To Make Preparation Cuisine African

B Stilla

Experience a taste of Morocco with this unique B Stilla chicken pie! A delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors, this recipe traditionally uses pigeon or capon, but chicken offers a delicious and readily available alternative. Prepare for a culinary adventure as you layer flaky phyllo pastry over a rich chicken, almond, and spice filling. This impressive dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and create a truly unforgettable Moroccan masterpiece!

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Kid Friendly Course For Large Groups Dietary

Banana Pb Snacking Cake

Indulge in this decadent Banana Peanut Butter Snacking Cake, adapted from What's Cooking magazine! This moist and delicious cake is perfect for an afternoon snack or a delightful dessert. Quick and easy to make, it's the ultimate comfort food.

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Taste Mood Taste Mood Cakes Picnic

Banana Cake With Orange Icing

This isn't your grandma's banana bread! Our Zesty Banana Cake bursts with citrus flavor thanks to a bright orange icing and a hint of orange zest in the cake itself. Lower in fat than many banana cakes, it's deliciously moist and naturally sweet. Feel free to add a handful of dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor – it's amazing! Bake it in a tube pan or a 9x9 inch square pan; it's versatile and always a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Time To Make Course Desserts Preparation

Banana Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake Light

Indulge in this delightful two-toned Banana Chocolate Fudge Layer Cake! This lightened-up recipe combines the perfect balance of moist banana cake and rich chocolate fudge cake, creating a stunning visual and an unforgettable taste. Each layer is subtly sweet, making it perfect for any occasion. Topped with a creamy ricotta frosting and a touch of fresh banana, this cake is sure to impress. Adapted from a Reisman recipe.

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Breakfast 60 Minutes Or Less Preparation Dietary

Belgium Raspberry Waffles With Lemon Raspberry Syrup

Indulge in the irresistible taste of Belgium Raspberry Waffles, perfectly complemented by a vibrant lemon raspberry syrup! This easy recipe creates crisp, tender waffles bursting with fresh raspberries. The homemade syrup adds a sweet, tart, and tangy twist that elevates this classic breakfast (or dessert!) to a whole new level. Imagine the delightful crunch of the waffles, the juicy burst of raspberries, and the zesty zing of lemon – all perfectly balanced in every bite. Upgrade your waffle game with this stunning recipe! Perfect for brunch, special occasions, or a simple yet impressive weeknight treat. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert waffle sandwich!

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Low In Something Time To Make Taste Mood Raspberries

Berry Sour Cream Cake

This incredibly easy recipe lets you create a moist and delicious berry sour cream cake! Customize it with your favorite berry blend – strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix! The tangy sour cream complements the sweetness of the berries perfectly, creating a delightful dessert that's perfect for any occasion. Get ready to bake up a burst of berry flavor!

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Number Of Servings Preparation Bananas Main Ingredient

Best Ever Banana Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting

Get ready to experience pure banana cake bliss! This incredibly moist and delicious cake boasts a texture similar to carrot cake, thanks to a unique freezer trick. A low baking temperature of 275°F yields a perfectly risen, incredibly moist cake. The cream cheese frosting adds the perfect touch of sweetness and tang. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Make it a day ahead for even more intense flavor! Note: Baking time may vary depending on your oven.

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Cakes 30 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Thanksgiving

Best Ever Peanut Butter Chocolate Molten Cakes

Indulge in decadent, gooey perfection with our Best Ever Peanut Butter Chocolate Molten Cakes! This recipe, inspired by Kraft Foods, delivers rich, dark chocolate lava cakes with a swirl of creamy peanut butter in the center. Prepare for an unforgettable dessert experience – perfect for date nights, birthdays, or any occasion calling for a truly sensational treat. Get ready to melt hearts (and taste buds!)

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