Powdered sugar, also known as confectioner’s sugar, is a staple ingredient in many sweet treats. From classic baked goods to decadent desserts, powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and a fine texture that can elevate any dish. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of powdered sugar. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced baker, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
From classic vanilla buttercream frosting to decadent chocolate fudge, and from fluffy whipped cream topping to sweet strawberry shortcake, we’ve got you covered. With simple instructions and mouthwatering photos, you’ll be whipping up a storm in no time. So grab your powdered sugar and get ready to indulge in these 20 delicious recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Classic Vanilla Buttercream Frosting
A timeless favorite, this classic vanilla buttercream frosting recipe is a staple for any cake or cupcake. With its creamy texture and subtle sweetness, it’s the perfect complement to your baked goods.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2-3 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating well after each addition.
3. Beat in the salt and vanilla extract.
4. Add the milk or heavy cream, starting with 2 tablespoons and adding more as needed, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
5. Beat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply assemble and serve.
Homemade Powdered Sugar Donuts
These fluffy donuts are coated in a sweet powdered sugar mixture, making them irresistible to anyone with a sweet tooth. This recipe is perfect for a weekend treat or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 2 large eggs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for coating
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. Add yeast and lukewarm milk to the dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs and mix until well combined.
5. Fry donuts for 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
7. While still warm, toss donuts in powdered sugar to coat.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes (depending on frying time).
Easy Lemon Glaze for Pound Cake
Easy Lemon Glaze for Pound Cake: Elevate your pound cake game with this simple and tangy lemon glaze recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and salt until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
3. Adjust the consistency of the glaze as needed by adding more powdered sugar for thicker or more lemon juice for thinner.
Cooking Time: None! This is a glaze recipe, not a baked good.
Tips:
– Use high-quality lemons for the best flavor.
– If you’re using a store-bought pound cake, let it cool completely before applying the glaze.
– Drizzle the glaze over the cooled pound cake and serve immediately. You can also refrigerate or freeze the glaze for up to 3 days.
Fluffy Whipped Cream Topping
Elevate your desserts with this simple recipe for fluffy whipped cream topping. Perfect for cakes, pies, or hot chocolate, this sweet treat is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream (chilled)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine chilled whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until soft peaks form (about 2 minutes).
3. Increase speed to high and continue beating until stiff peaks form (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Stop the mixer occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
5. Use immediately, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required!
Decadent Chocolate Fudge
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and creamy fudge recipe that’s sure to become a favorite. With its deep, velvety texture and intense chocolate flavor, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 16 ounces (450g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
5. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
6. Pour into prepared baking dish and refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 1 pound (450g)
Cinnamon Sugar Dusted Churros
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these crispy on the outside and soft on the inside churros, coated in a delicious cinnamon sugar mixture. Perfect for snacking or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of churro mix (or make your own dough using flour, water, and oil)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 375°F.
2. Follow the package instructions to mix and knead the churro dough.
3. Pipe the dough through a star tip or a round tip to create the desired shape.
4. Fry the churros for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. In a small bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon.
7. Toss the warm churros in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
8. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Strawberry Shortcake
Sweet Strawberry Shortcake Recipe
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic dessert featuring fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and tender shortcake biscuits.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 6-8 shortcake biscuits (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Slice the strawberries and sprinkle with granulated sugar to taste.
3. Split the shortcake biscuits in half lengthwise.
4. Assemble the shortcakes by placing a biscuit bottom on a plate, topping with whipped cream, sliced strawberries, and finishing with another biscuit top.
5. Repeat the layers one more time, ending with a biscuit top.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 15 minutes
– Assembly time: 10 minutes
Enjoy your sweet and satisfying Sweet Strawberry Shortcake!
Cream Cheese Icing for Red Velvet Cake
This classic cream cheese icing is a perfect complement to the rich, velvety texture of red velvet cake. With its tangy and creamy flavor, it’s a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2-3 drops red food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until fully incorporated.
4. If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring to tint the icing.
5. Beat the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Make sure to use softened cream cheese and butter for easy mixing.
– Adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your taste, depending on how sweet you like your icing.
– This icing is best used fresh, but it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Light and Airy Angel Food Cake
This classic dessert is a staple of any celebration, with its tender crumb and fluffy texture making it a crowd-pleaser. This recipe yields a moist and delicious cake that’s perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour, sifted
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (120ml) egg whites, at room temperature
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sift flour over a piece of parchment paper or a clean cloth.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form.
3. Gradually add sugar, beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Add sifted flour, beating until just combined.
5. Pour batter into an ungreased angel food cake pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cake is golden brown and springs back when touched.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Crunchy Peanut Butter Cookies
These classic cookies are a perfect combination of crunchy edges and chewy centers, packed with the rich flavor of peanut butter.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
4. Beat in egg and milk until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
6. If using peanuts, fold them into the dough.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rich Tiramisu Dessert
Experience the classic Italian dessert with a twist – rich, creamy, and utterly decadent! This tiramisu recipe combines espresso-soaked ladyfingers with a velvety mascarpone cheese mixture, topped with cocoa powder for a dramatic finish.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Dip each ladyfinger into the espresso for about 3-5 seconds on each side.
2. In a separate bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Fold in whipped heavy cream until well combined.
4. To assemble, place a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
5. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of mascarpone on top.
6. Dust with cocoa powder and confectioners’ sugar.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodles
Soft and Chewy Snickerdoodles Recipe
These classic cookies are a staple of any baking repertoire. With their signature cinnamon-sugar flavor and soft, chewy texture, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 3 tablespoons cinnamon-sugar mixture (see note)
– Optional: additional cinnamon-sugar for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Note: To make cinnamon-sugar mixture, combine 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Mix well.
French Beignets with Powdered Sugar
Experience the classic French dessert that will delight your senses – crispy, airy beignets smothered in a generous helping of powdered sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup warm milk (105°F to 115°F)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast and 1/4 cup warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and remaining 3/4 cup warm milk to the bowl. Mix until smooth.
3. Knead dough for 10 minutes until elastic and smooth.
4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down dough and roll out to about 1/2-inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes and fry in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Drain beignets on paper towels and dust with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Sweetened Whipped Mascarpone
Elevate your desserts with this rich and creamy sweetened whipped mascarpone recipe. Perfect as a topping for cakes, pastries, or fruit parfaits.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the mascarpone cheese with an electric mixer until smooth.
2. Gradually add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
3. Beat in the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Use immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None
Delicate Russian Tea Cakes
These buttery cookies are a classic treat that pairs perfectly with a steaming cup of tea. With their tender texture and subtle sweetness, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Simple Powdered Sugar Pancakes
Start your day with a sweet and fluffy treat that’s surprisingly easy to make. These powdered sugar pancakes require just a few ingredients and minimal effort, but yield big results!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until golden brown.
7. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Luscious Coconut Macaroons
A classic treat that’s perfect for any occasion, these luscious coconut macaroons are chewy, sweet, and utterly irresistible. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying the tropical flavor of coconut in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large egg whites
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, granulated sugar, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture and mix until combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Old-Fashioned Powdered Sugar Fudge
This old-fashioned powdered sugar fudge recipe is a timeless treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a batch of creamy, powdered sugar-coated goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Place over medium heat and stir until sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips until melted and smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour into prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
6. Once cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar evenly over the top of the fudge.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fluffy Marshmallow Frosting
Fluffy Marshmallow Frosting Recipe
Whip up a batch of this sweet treat to top your favorite cakes and cupcakes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) marshmallows
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (400g) powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the marshmallows and softened butter.
2. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until well combined and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating continuously until smooth and creamy, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: N/A
Golden Honey Glazed Baklava
This sweet and sticky pastry combines the crunch of phyllo dough with the warmth of honey and spices, perfect for a special occasion or dessert treat. With only a few ingredients, this recipe is easy to make and impressive to serve.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon golden syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. Layer phyllo dough, walnuts, and sugar mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of powdered sugar with these 20 delicious recipes. From classic desserts like vanilla buttercream frosting and strawberry shortcake to sweet treats like cinnamon sugar churros and snickerdoodles, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making homemade donuts or decadent chocolate fudge, or impress your friends with fluffy whipped cream toppings and light and airy angel food cake. With these simple and mouthwatering recipes, you’ll be whipping up sweet creations in no time.
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