c powdered sugar (or more

Powdered sugar, also known as confectioners' sugar, icing sugar, or 10X sugar, is a refined sweetener produced by grinding granulated sucrose with a small amount of cornstarch (typically 3-5%) to prevent caking. The sucrose is typically derived from sugarcane or sugar beets, processed into a fine, white powder with a particle size that dissolves rapidly in liquids. The added cornstarch serves as an anti-caking agent and imparts a light, fluffy texture that makes the sugar ideal for applications requiring smooth incorporation without grittiness. The product is standardized in fineness—10X denotes passing through a 100-mesh screen—making it finer than standard granulated sugar but coarser than some specialty varieties.

Powdered sugar is essential in confectionery and baking applications where a smooth, lump-free sweetness is required. It is the primary ingredient in icings, frostings, and glazes for cakes, cookies, and pastries, as its fine texture allows for easy mixing and silky consistency. The ingredient is used to dust desserts (donuts, pastries, chocolate truffles), incorporated into whipped creams and buttercreams, and employed in royal icing for decorative work. It dissolves readily in small amounts of liquid, making it ideal for creating smooth fillings and toppings without the grittiness of granulated sugar.