The easiest way to make your own powdered sugar! Use this simple method when you’re out of powdered sugar and need it for a recipe in a pinch.
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Ever been halfway through a recipe and realized you’re out of powdered sugar? No worries—skip the trip to the store! With this simple trick, you can whip up your own powdered sugar in no time.
It’s a lifesaver for those “uh-oh” moments, though if you use powdered sugar on a regular basis, we still recommend buying it for everyday baking, as it’s much easier and still cost-effective.
✨ Did you know? Powdered sugar goes by many names—icing sugar, confectioners’ sugar, and even 10X sugar (size of particles).
Let’s Make Powdered Sugar
Follow these simple steps to make your own confectioners’ sugar.
1
Add Sugar to a blender.
Add granulated sugar to a blender (we’ve found a food processor doesn’t work well). To avoid grainy powdered sugar, blend a small amount at a time, 1/4 to 1/3 cup.
The amount of powdered sugar you get will vary depending on how fine you blend it. 1 cup granulated sugar = 1 1/3 cups or more of powdered sugar.
2
Blend until powdered.
Blend in 30 second increments until you reach the desired consistency. Pulse the sugar (or shake the blender jar around a bit) every so often for even mixing, which helps avoid graininess as well.
3
SiFT the powdered Sugar.
After blending sugar into powdered sugar, we like to sift it. This step helps remove any clumps and ensures a smooth, even texture, perfect for baking or dusting! Although this is optional, we do recommend it.
Expert Tips to Avoid Grainy Powdered Sugar
- Use small batches: Avoid overloading your blender with too much sugar at once. Stick to about 1/4 to 1/3 cup at a time to ensure even blending and prevent grainy texture.
- Pulse for even mixing: Instead of running your blender continuously, pulse the sugar in short intervals. This helps prevent uneven grinding and ensures a finer, smoother result.
- Shake the blender jar: Occasionally shake the blender jar to redistribute the sugar, especially if it’s sticking to the sides. This will help avoid clumps and give you a consistent powdered texture.
- Sift the powdered sugar: Sifting is a simple yet effective way to remove any remaining clumps after blending. This extra step ensures a smooth finish, perfect for recipes that require silky powdered sugar.
- Opt for a high-powered blender: A high-quality blender, like the Ninja BL610 or a similar model, will help you achieve a finer texture faster, reducing the chance of graininess.
- Consider adding cornstarch: If you’re planning to store your homemade powdered sugar for later use, adding a tablespoon of cornstarch per cup of sugar can help absorb moisture and prevent clumping over time. However, if you’re using it right away, this step is optional.
Supplies
Here’s what you’ll need for this quick method.
- Granulated sugar
- Fine mesh strainer or sifter
- Blender (we’ve found a food processor does not work well)
We use either our Ninja BL610 Professional blender or Ninja Single-Serve Blender.
Ninja BL610 Professional Blender
Buy Now →Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to commonly asked questions about making powdered sugar.
Can I use any type of sugar to make powdered sugar?
It’s best to use granulated white sugar for this method.
How long does it take to make powdered sugar in a blender?
It depends on your blender and how much sugar you are using, start with 30 second increments and blend until you achieve the right consistency.
do you need cornstarch to make powdered sugar?
You don’t need to use cornstarch to make powdered sugar, but it’s often added to store-bought versions to prevent clumping. If you’re making it at home for immediate use, you can skip it, but adding a little cornstarch can help keep it smooth if you’re storing it for later.