It may seem obvious, but even seasoned bakers sometimes overlook this clever trick: you can easily make your own icing sugar using just granulated sugar and a food processor. It’s fast, effective, and a smart way to cut costs on a staple ingredient — especially if you’re baking in bulk.
Ingredients & Method
- Granulated sugar — any white sugar will do
- Food processor or high-speed blender
Step-by-step:
- Blitz the sugar for about 60 seconds, or until a fine powder forms.
- Pass it through a fine sieve to remove any larger crystals.
- Store in an airtight container to keep it dry and clump-free.
Usage Notes
This DIY version isn’t quite as fine as store-bought icing sugar, which often includes anti-caking agents like cornstarch. So while it may not be ideal for silky frostings or royal icing, it’s absolutely perfect for:
- Sponge cakes
- Macarons
- Batters & biscuits
- General baking applications
Plus, you could save 3 to 4 times the cost of commercial icing sugar — making it a thrifty, no-compromise alternative for most recipes.
Making Homemade Icing Sugar is one of those effortlessly smart kitchen hacks that professional bakers swear by. Whether you’re short on stock or simply looking to cut costs, this quick technique transforms granulated sugar into a fine, usable powder — ideal for sponges, batters, and biscuits. In the short video below, I’ll show you how to blitz, sieve, and store your own icing sugar in under a minute.
Use Ideas for Homemade Icing Sugar
Homemade Icing Sugar is wonderfully versatile in professional baking — ideal for light sponges, meringues, biscuits, and delicate batters where texture matters. One perfect match? The classic Joconde sponge, where a fine sugar grind keeps the batter aerated and smooth.
Explore my Joconde sponge recipe and see how this DIY icing sugar elevates your base layers with a delicate sweetness and refined texture.
This icing sugar isn’t just for sponges — it’s also the secret behind all of my shortcrust tart shells, from the classic shortcrust to the nutty, aromatic hazelnut shortcrust. It brings a crisp finish and balanced flavour to every bite.
Craving more behind-the-scenes moments, step-by-step videos, and sneak peeks of upcoming recipes? Join me on Instagram @andbonbons for a closer look at the process, pastry tips, and plenty of chocolate inspiration.