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

Time To Make Main Ingredient Preparation Equipment

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.

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Bar Cookies 30 Minutes Or Less Chocolate Course

Alice Pike's Famous Brownies

Indulge in the legendary Alice Pike's Brownies, a recipe passed down through generations! These moist, intensely chocolatey brownies were a sensation at two lunch counters in Canada – a cotton mill in St. John, New Brunswick, and Eaton's in St. Catharines, Ontario. So popular, they were even in demand across the street at Kresge's! This recipe delivers the same melt-in-your-mouth experience that made them famous. Get ready for the richest, most irresistible brownies you'll ever make!

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Low Fat Gifts High Protein Fall

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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Cuisine Small Appliance Pies And Tarts Equipment

Almond Peachy Pie

This delightful Almond Peachy Pie is the perfect summer dessert! Imagine flaky almond crust, bursting with juicy peaches and a creamy, dreamy topping. Easy to make and guaranteed to impress your dinner guests, this recipe is your new go-to for summer gatherings and warm-weather celebrations. #almondpie #peachpie #summerdessert #easyrecipe #summerbaking #dinnerparty #delicious

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Preparation Puddings And Mousses Time To Make Course

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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Apples Number Of Servings Time To Make European

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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Fruit 4 Hours Or Less Preparation Time To Make

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.

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1 Day Or More Desserts Course Cakes

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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Muffins 30 Minutes Or Less Lunch Course

Bailey's Irish Cream And Coffee Muffins

Indulge in the irresistible flavor of Bailey's Irish Cream and rich coffee in these delightful muffins! Perfect for a cozy morning treat, a sophisticated potluck dessert, or a delightful afternoon snack. Easily made as mini muffins or standard size, these muffins are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The perfect blend of sweet and boozy, they're a delicious way to elevate your baking game!

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Comfort Food Comfort Food Equipment Main Ingredient

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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Preparation Preparation Desserts Cakes

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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Time To Make Desserts 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!

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Course Low In Something Winter Kid Friendly

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!

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Main Dish Brunch Main Ingredient Dietary

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.

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Breakfast Low Sodium Time To Make 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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Desserts Preparation Brunch Kid Friendly

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!

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Course Occasion Bananas Tropical Fruit

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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Thanksgiving Desserts Preparation Time To Make

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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