Quick Answer
1 Cup Powdered Sugar = ?
💡 Big difference: Sifted vs Unsifted!
Sifted (Most Recipes)
120g
Light, fluffy, no lumps
Unsifted
180g
Packed, may have lumps
Also called: Confectioners Sugar, Icing Sugar, 10X Sugar
Why Sifted vs Unsifted Matters
Important to Know
Using unsifted when your recipe calls for sifted means you're adding 50% more sugar! This can make your frosting too sweet and difficult to work with.
Sifted Sugar
- Light and airy
- No lumps
- Blends smoothly
- Perfect for frosting
Unsifted Sugar
- Packed and dense
- May have lumps
- 50% heavier per cup
- Creates lumpy frosting
Most Common Amounts
1/2 Cup Powdered Sugar
1/2 cup = 60 grams (sifted) or 90 grams (unsifted)
Perfect For
- Glazing 6 donuts
- Small batch frosting
- Cookie decorating
- Dusting desserts
Measuring Tip
1/2 cup = 8 tablespoons. If you don't have a 1/2 cup measure, use 8 level tablespoons of sifted sugar.
Quick Conversion Table
Powdered Sugar Weight Guide
| Amount | Sifted (g) | Unsifted (g) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 tbsp | 7.5g | 11g | Dusting cakes |
| 1/4 cup | 30g | 45g | Light glaze |
| 1/2 cup | 60g | 90g | Donut glaze |
| 3/4 cup | 90g | 135g | Bundt cake |
| 1 cup | 120g | 180g | Frosting base |
| 2 cups | 240g | 360g | Layer cake |
| 3 cups | 360g | 540g | Full cake |
| 1 lb box | 454g | - | ≈ 3.8 cups sifted |
Popular Recipe Uses
Buttercream
3-4 cups sifted
360-480g
For 2-layer cake
Royal Icing
4 cups sifted
480g
Cookie decorating
Simple Glaze
1 cup sifted
120g
Donuts & pastries
💡 Making Cream Cheese Frosting? You'll need 2-3 cups powdered sugar (240-360g) plus cream cheese (8 oz = 226g). The cream cheese converter will help you measure it perfectly!
Same Sugar, Different Names
These are all the same product:
USA
Powdered Sugar
Confectioners Sugar
UK/Australia
Icing Sugar
Baking Term
10X Sugar
(fineness grade)
All contain about 3% cornstarch to prevent clumping
Helpful Tips
How to Properly Sift
- Use a fine-mesh sieve or sifter
- Sift directly into your measuring cup
- Level with a straight edge - don't pack
- Sift again into your mixing bowl
Make Your Own
Blend 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar + 1 tablespoon cornstarch until fine. Makes about 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar.
Storage Tip
Store in an airtight container. Always re-sift before using, as it compacts during storage.
Common 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 stated otherwise.
Is confectioners sugar the same as powdered sugar?
Yes! Powdered sugar, confectioners sugar, and icing sugar are the same thing - just different names used in different regions.
How much is 1/2 cup powdered sugar in grams?
1/2 cup sifted powdered sugar = 60 grams. This amount is perfect for glazes and small batch frostings.
Why does sifting matter so much?
Sifting removes lumps and adds air, making the sugar lighter. Using unsifted sugar when a recipe calls for sifted means you're adding 50% more sugar than intended!
🍬 Common Baking Sugars
The most frequently used sugars in baking recipes:
💡 Tip: Always sift powdered sugar before measuring for accurate results - it clumps easily!
Ready to Bake? 🎉
Now you know: 1 cup sifted = 120g. Use our converter above for any amount!