Powdered Sugar vs Granulated Sugar

Powdered Sugar substitute

Powdered Sugar for Granulated

Use 1 cup granulated for every 1 ¾ cups powdered

Best for frostings

Use 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar for every 1 cup granulated sugar (1.75:1 ratio). For granulated to powdered, use 1 cup granulated for every 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar. Powdered sugar contains cornstarch, so it affects texture in some recipes.

Compare all 6 granulated sugar substitutes

Learn how to substitute powdered sugar for granulated sugar and vice versa. Get exact ratios, cooking tips, and techniques for perfect results in any recipe.

Other powdered sugar substitutes

Ranked, with the exact amount to use

2Granulated Sugar for Powdered
Use 1 ¾ cups powdered for every 1 cup granulated
Granulated sugar can substitute for powdered sugar but will have coarser texture.
What changes
It works well in most recipes but may not dissolve as smoothly in liquids.
Best for
cooking, baking, when you want coarser texture, when you don't have powdered sugar, most recipes
Taste
identical sweetness
Texture
coarser
Granulated sugar has coarser texture than powdered sugar. It works well in most recipes but may not dissolve as smoothly in liquids.
310X Sugar
Use the same amount with powdered sugar
10X sugar is the same as powdered sugar (confectioners sugar).
What changes
It can substitute for granulated sugar using the same ratio as powdered sugar.
Best for
frostings, glazes, when you want fine texture, desserts, when you want smooth consistency
Taste
identical sweetness
Texture
finer, may affect texture
10X sugar is identical to powdered sugar. Use the same ratio as powdered sugar: 1 3/4 cups for every 1 cup granulated sugar.
4Confectioners Sugar
Use the same amount with powdered sugar
Confectioners sugar is the same as powdered sugar.
What changes
It can substitute for granulated sugar using the same ratio as powdered sugar.
Best for
frostings, glazes, when you want fine texture, desserts, when you want smooth consistency
Taste
identical sweetness
Texture
finer, may affect texture
Confectioners sugar is identical to powdered sugar. Use the same ratio as powdered sugar: 1 3/4 cups for every 1 cup granulated sugar.
5Icing Sugar
Use the same amount with powdered sugar
Icing sugar is the same as powdered sugar.
What changes
It can substitute for granulated sugar using the same ratio as powdered sugar.
Best for
frostings, glazes, when you want fine texture, desserts, when you want smooth consistency
Taste
identical sweetness
Texture
finer, may affect texture
Icing sugar is identical to powdered sugar. Use the same ratio as powdered sugar: 1 3/4 cups for every 1 cup granulated sugar.

How it behaves in this recipe

Powdered sugar and granulated sugar have different densities and textures. Powdered sugar is lighter and contains cornstarch, while granulated sugar has larger crystals and no additives. Understanding these differences helps choose the best substitute for each application.

Cooking tips

Powdered sugar works best in frostings and glazes where you want smooth texture
Granulated sugar works better in baked goods where you want structure and texture
When using powdered sugar instead of granulated, the cornstarch may affect texture in some recipes
Powdered sugar dissolves more easily in liquids than granulated sugar
For meringues and whipped cream, granulated sugar works better than powdered sugar
Powdered sugar is better for dusting and decorative purposes
When substituting, consider the final texture you want in your recipe

Notes on powdered sugar

For a completely different approach, try using other sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or stevia
In some applications, you could use a combination of different sugars for layered flavor
For beverages, consider using simple syrup or other liquid sweeteners

Frequently asked questions

Can I substitute powdered sugar for granulated sugar?

Yes, use 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar for every 1 cup granulated sugar. Powdered sugar contains cornstarch which may affect texture in some recipes.

How much powdered sugar equals 1 cup granulated sugar?

Use 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar for every 1 cup granulated sugar. Powdered sugar is lighter and fluffier than granulated sugar.

Can I use 10X sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, 10X sugar is the same as powdered sugar. Use 1 3/4 cups 10X sugar for every 1 cup granulated sugar.

What's the difference between powdered sugar and granulated sugar?

Powdered sugar is ground finer and contains cornstarch, while granulated sugar has larger crystals and no cornstarch. Powdered sugar is lighter and fluffier.

Can I use confectioners sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, confectioners sugar is the same as powdered sugar. Use 1 3/4 cups confectioners sugar for every 1 cup granulated sugar.

Can I use powdered sugar in cookies?

Yes, but powdered sugar may affect the texture of cookies due to the cornstarch. Granulated sugar is better for most cookie recipes.

Can I use powdered sugar in meringue?

No, granulated sugar is better for meringue. Powdered sugar contains cornstarch which can affect the stability of meringue.

Can I use powdered sugar in coffee?

Yes, powdered sugar dissolves more easily in coffee than granulated sugar. Use 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar for every 1 cup granulated sugar.