Spice grinder or coffee grinders — which are essentially the same tool — pick up flavors from the ingredients they grind. Clean it thoroughly before using it for sugar. Many food processors will not work, possibly due to their large size. [2] X Research source You can try it with your machine, but you may end up with superfine sugar, or an uneven mix of superfine and powder. [3] X Research source
For your first try, assume that 1 cup of granulated sugar will make 1 cup powdered sugar. A strong blender may be able to break it down almost to half volume, but it will be easy to grind more if you encounter this “problem” of perfectly powdered sugar.
This ratio is very close to the 3% mix used in commercial powdered sugar. [4] X Research source While most online powdered sugar instructions call for more cornstarch, the result may behave unpredictably in recipes, or have a poorer taste. Arrowroot powder is a good substitute for those avoiding corn products.
Blending too long without pause may burn the sugar.
If not using the sugar immediately, just sift right before using it in a recipe.
If the sugar clumps, sift it again before using it in a recipe.
Do not use this semi-powdered sugar for icing, as it may turn out grainy and dark-tinted.
If you use the powdered sugar for icing or glazes, just mix in ordinary food coloring to the final result.
