1 Cup Powdered Sugar = ? Grams
⚠️ 60g Difference Between Sifted & Unsifted!
Sifted (Most Common)
120g
Light & fluffy, no lumps
Unsifted
180g
Packed, may have lumps
Also called: Confectioners Sugar, Icing Sugar, 10X Sugar
Compare with other sugar types
Most Searched Conversions
Need reverse conversion? Use our grams to cups calculator
Complete Powdered Sugar Conversion Chart
| Amount | Sifted (g) | Unsifted (g) | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/8 cup (2 tbsp) | 15g | 23g | +8g |
| 1/4 cup | 30g | 45g | +15g |
| 1/3 cup | 40g | 60g | +20g |
| 1/2 cup | 60g | 90g | +30g |
| 2/3 cup | 80g | 120g | +40g |
| 3/4 cup | 90g | 135g | +45g |
| 1 cup | 120g | 180g | +60g! |
| 1 1/4 cups | 150g | 225g | +75g |
| 1 1/2 cups | 180g | 270g | +90g |
| 2 cups | 240g | 360g | +120g |
💡 Pro Tip: Always sift powdered sugar for smooth frosting! For smaller measurements, use our tablespoon converter
Why Sifting Makes a 50% Difference
Sifted Powdered Sugar
- ✓ Air incorporated between particles
- ✓ No lumps or clumps
- ✓ Lighter weight per volume
- ✓ Blends smoothly into frosting
- ✓ Standard for most recipes
Unsifted Powdered Sugar
- ✗ Compacted from storage
- ✗ Contains hard lumps
- ✗ 50% heavier per cup
- ✗ Creates lumpy frosting
- ✗ Can make desserts too sweet
Bottom Line: Using unsifted when recipe calls for sifted = 50% more sugar = overly sweet, heavy frosting that won't pipe well. Compare this to brown sugar packing, which only varies by 35%.
Common Recipe Measurements
Buttercream Frosting
3-4 cups sifted = 360-480g
For 2-layer cake
Royal Icing
4 cups sifted = 480g
For cookie decorating
Working with chocolate? Check our cocoa powder converter for chocolate frosting recipes.
Powdered = Confectioners = Icing Sugar
These are all the same product with different regional names:
USA
Powdered Sugar
Confectioners Sugar
UK/Australia
Icing Sugar
Baking Term
10X Sugar
(fineness grade)
All contain ~3% cornstarch to prevent clumping. For other ingredients, see our cornstarch converter or flour measurements.
Tips & Substitutions
Make Your Own Powdered Sugar:
Blend 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar + 1 tablespoon cornstarch until fine powder. Makes about 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar.
How to Properly Sift:
- Use fine-mesh sieve or sifter
- Sift directly into measuring cup
- Level with straight edge - don't pack
- Sift again into mixing bowl
Storage Tip:
Store in airtight container. Re-sift before each use as it compacts during storage. Unlike brown sugar, don't add moisture - it will clump!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many grams in 1 cup powdered sugar?
1 cup sifted powdered sugar = 120 grams. If unsifted = 180 grams. Most recipes assume sifted unless specified otherwise.
Is confectioners sugar the same as powdered sugar?
Yes! Powdered sugar, confectioners sugar, and icing sugar are identical products - just different regional names for finely ground sugar with 3% cornstarch.
How much is 1/2 cup powdered sugar in grams?
1/2 cup sifted powdered sugar = 60 grams. This is a common measurement for glazes and small batch frostings.
Can I convert other ingredients?
Yes! Try our honey converter for glazes, butter measurements for frosting, or cream converter for whipped toppings.