Powdered (confectioners’) sugar dissolves instantly, making it essential for frostings, glazes, and dusting desserts. Whether you ran out mid-recipe or need a dietary swap, here are the best substitutes for powdered sugar, with exact amounts.
Use: 1 cup granulated sugar + 1 tbsp cornstarch for 1 cup powdered sugar
Blend 1–2 minutes until powdery, then sift.
The cornstarch prevents clumping, like store-bought.
The best all-round substitute is Granulated sugar, blended: use 1 cup granulated sugar + 1 tbsp cornstarch for 1 cup powdered sugar. Blend 1–2 minutes until powdery, then sift. The cornstarch prevents clumping, like store-bought.
Vegan options: Granulated sugar, blended.
Missing something else? Search all 48 ingredients in the substitute finder.