Q: What is confectioners sugar?
A: Confectioners sugar also known as icing sugar mixture in Australia is crushed granulated sugar with a dash (approximately four per cent) of cornflour or maize. Confectioners sugar was given its name as it was used more frequently by “confectioners” - people who make sweets and candies. It’s perfect for using in cupcakes and sweet treats as it adds a sweet flavour and helps to thicken recipes.
Next time you’re at Woolworths or your local grocery store you might notice the subtle difference in the baking aisle. You’ll see pure icing sugar (also known as powdered sugar) which is made of 100% cane sugar and icing sugar mixture which is 96% cane sugar with the addition of tapioca or maize.
500g of CSR Icing Sugar Soft Mixture will cost around $1.95.
Nutrition
As this is a white sugar it should only be eaten in moderation as it falls in the discretionary food basket. It contains 403 calories per 100g.
Cooking with confectioners sugar
Although they can be used interchangeably and substituted be careful not to add too much icing sugar mixture as it will thicken your recipes.
How to make it at home
To make your own confectioners sugar at home simply add a small amount of cornflour to pure icing sugar.
How to use confectioners sugar
Perfect Buttercream Icing
Beat up a batch of this best-ever buttercream icing to top off your perfect cake.
Ingredients
250 g unsalted butter, chopped, softened
3 cups (500 g) icing sugar mixture, sifted
2 tbsp milk
Method
1. Put butter in the bowl
of an electric mixer and beat
on medium, using the paddle attachment, until pale and fluffy.
2. Add ½ the icing sugar and beat on low until combined.
3. Add milk and remaining sugar, then beat on low
until combined. Increase
speed to high and beat until pale and fluffy.