– 2 tbsp confectioners' sugar

Confectioners' sugar, also known as powdered sugar, icing sugar, or 10X sugar, is granulated white sugar that has been finely ground into a powder and mixed with a small amount of cornstarch (typically 3%) to prevent caking and clumping. The name "10X" refers to the fineness of the grind—ten times finer than standard granulated sugar. It originated as a commercial product in the 19th century when mechanical grinding became feasible, though it has since become a staple in home baking. The cornstarch additive gives confectioners' sugar a distinctive chalky mouthfeel and smooth texture when dissolved or mixed into liquids, distinguishing it from its source ingredient.

Confectioners' sugar is primarily used in baking and pastry work, where its fine texture and cornstarch content allow it to blend smoothly into batters, frostings, and glazes without visible grittiness. It is essential for making royal icing, buttercream frosting, fondant, and dusting cakes, pastries, and donuts. Beyond sweets, it is used to thicken fruit fillings, create silky pudding toppings, and dust savory items such as fried foods. Its superior blending properties make it preferable to granulated sugar in applications requiring a smooth, refined texture.