what is powdered sugar

Powdered sugar, also known as confectioners sugar or icing sugar, is a finely ground sugar produced by milling granulated sugar into a powdered state. It is used in industrial food production when a quick-dissolving sugar is required, and home cooks use it primarily to make icing or frosting and other cake decorations. Powdered sugar is finer than granulated sugar and has a chalky texture. It is also mixed with a small amount of cornstarch that acts as an anti-caking agent, preventing the coagulation of large clumps. Powdered sugar is available in varying degrees of fineness, most commonly XXX, XXXX, and 10X, with the greater number of Xs indicating finer particles. Finer particles absorb more moisture, which results in caking. Powdered sugar can be easily prepared at home by grinding granulated sugar in a blender or food processor and adding cornstarch to prevent clumping. The magic ratio for homemade powdered sugar is 1 cup granulated sugar to 1 tablespoon cornstarch.