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

60 Minutes Or Less Occasion Cakes Carrots

32K Caramel Cake

Indulge in the decadent 32K Caramel Carrot Cake! This irresistible layered cake boasts a moist carrot cake infused with rich caramel notes, topped with a creamy caramel frosting and a drizzled butterscotch-chocolate glaze. Is it a carrot cake with a caramel twist, or a caramel cake with a hidden carrot surprise? The answer is deliciously both! Perfect for birthdays, special occasions, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth.

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make Cookies And Brownies 60 Minutes Or Less For Large Groups

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!

See Complete Recipe
European Preparation Dietary Desserts

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!

See Complete Recipe
Low In Something Fruit Course For Large Groups

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.

See Complete Recipe
Coffee Cakes 4 Hours Or Less Fruit Apples

Apple Streusel Cake

Indulge in this irresistible Apple Streusel Bundt Cake! A moist and tender bundt cake bursting with cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy streusel topping. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, coffee breaks, or a delightful dessert. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a bakery-quality cake that will impress your family and friends.

See Complete Recipe
Course 60 Minutes Or Less Desserts Low Protein

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!

See Complete Recipe
Dietary Desserts Heirloom Historical Holiday Event

Authentic Nanaimo Bars

Recreate history with the legendary Nanaimo Bar recipe that won the 1986 ultimate baking contest! This isn't just any Nanaimo bar; this is Joyce Hardcastle's original, unaltered recipe. Get ready for an intensely rich and decadent treat – one small bar is truly satisfying. We're talking buttery graham cracker crust, creamy custard filling, and a luscious chocolate ganache topping. This recipe demands authenticity – using Bird's Eye custard powder is non-negotiable for that signature flavor. Follow the exact steps, and you'll understand why this recipe has stood the test of time. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful everyday indulgence!

See Complete Recipe
Oven Bananas To Go Dietary

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!

See Complete Recipe
60 Minutes Or Less Preparation Cakes Desserts

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.

See Complete Recipe
Main Ingredient Dinner Party Number Of Servings Preparation

Banana Fruit Salad

A vibrant and refreshing fruit salad elevated with a luscious, whipped banana cream! This easy 10-minute recipe is perfect for a light dessert or a healthy snack. Two delicious topping options are included for you to choose from!

See Complete Recipe
Course 4 Hours Or Less Low Protein Dietary

Banana Pineapple Cake

Indulge in this moist and delicious Banana Pineapple Upside-Down Cake! A coworker's secret recipe, this cake boasts the perfect blend of sweet banana and tangy pineapple, creating a truly unforgettable treat. Get ready for rave reviews!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less Cakes

Banana White Chocolate Cake With Icing Absolutely Decadent

Indulge in this heavenly Banana White Chocolate Cake, a family heirloom recipe! This moist and decadent cake features layers of perfectly spiced banana cake studded with white chocolate chunks, topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese icing. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a truly special dessert. Get ready for rave reviews!

See Complete Recipe
Finger Food Number Of Servings Holiday Event Cookies And Brownies

Basic Shortbread With Variations

Indulge in the buttery goodness of homemade shortbread cookies! This recipe provides a classic base recipe with exciting variations: white chocolate dipped, cranberry clementine, pecan macadamia bites, and sugar stars. Perfect for holiday baking or any special occasion, these melt-in-your-mouth cookies pair perfectly with a warm cup of French vanilla coffee. Yield and baking time may vary depending on thickness and size, so follow the instructions for perfectly baked shortbread every time!

See Complete Recipe
Dietary Low Sodium Winter Preparation

Basic Sugar Cookies

Dive into the delightful world of baking with our foolproof Basic Sugar Cookie recipe! This simple yet elegant recipe yields perfectly soft and delicious cookies, ideal for cookie cutters and festive decorating. Create a batch of approximately 25 (size depending) melt-in-your-mouth cookies in under an hour. Get ready for a fun and rewarding baking experience!

See Complete Recipe
Moroccan Oven Dinner Party Brunch

Basteeya Moroccan Chicken Pie

Inspired by Christine Cushing's show, this Basteeya recipe delivers an unforgettable Moroccan culinary experience. Flaky phyllo pastry cradles a savory blend of tender chicken, warming spices, and fragrant almonds. A showstopper for any occasion, this recipe is perfect for adventurous home cooks looking for a delicious and impressive main course.

See Complete Recipe
Low Sodium Time To Make Pancakes And Waffles 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!

See Complete Recipe
Cakes Easy Occasion Eggs Dairy

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!

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Brunch Pancakes And Waffles

Best And Easiest Waffles

Craving light and fluffy waffles that are incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This recipe, inspired by Delicious Magazine, delivers perfectly crisp waffles every time. These versatile treats are amazing with honey, ice cream, or even savory toppings. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this foolproof recipe!

See Complete Recipe