powdered sugar: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Yes, in terms of the product itself. 'Icing sugar' is the common term in British English, while 'powdered sugar' or 'confectioners' sugar' is standard in American English.

You can approximate it by grinding granulated sugar in a powerful blender or spice grinder. However, commercial powdered sugar contains a small amount of cornflour/cornstarch (typically 3%) to prevent clumping, which homemade versions lack.

For dusting or some textures, you can use a homemade version (blended granulated sugar). For frostings or glazes where the cornstarch is functional, a blend of blended sugar and a tiny amount of cornstarch is a better substitute.

This is a professional/technical term indicating the sugar has been ground to a specific, very fine powder. The 'X' denotes how many times it has been ground and sifted; 10X is the finest grade commonly available.

A finely ground sugar mixed with a small amount of cornflour (UK)/cornstarch (US) to prevent caking, used primarily for baking and decorating.

Powdered sugar is usually everyday, culinary in register.

Powdered sugar: in British English it is pronounced /ˈpaʊdəd ˈʃʊɡə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈpaʊdərd ˈʃʊɡər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.