Granulated Sugar vs Confectioners' Sugar
Density, calorie, and weight differences — and whether they can substitute for each other.
Substitution Verdict
Density difference: 51.9%. Significant difference — not a 1:1 substitute, recipe may need rebalancing.
Calories per 100 g: Granulated Sugar 387 kcal vs Confectioners' Sugar 389 kcal. Difference: 2 kcal — Confectioners' Sugar is higher.
Weight Conversions (per Spoon and Cup)
| Measure | Granulated Sugar | Confectioners' Sugar |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon | 12.5 g | 7.5 g |
| 1 teaspoon | 4.2 g | 2.5 g |
| 1 cup | 200 g | 120 g |
| Density | 0.85 g/ml | 0.5 g/ml |
Measuring Tips
Granulated sugar packs slightly when scooped — spoon and level for accuracy in baking.
Always sift confectioners' sugar before measuring — it cakes up and clumps. Spoon and level after sifting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Granulated Sugar be substituted for Confectioners' Sugar?▾
Significant difference — not a 1:1 substitute, recipe may need rebalancing. Density of Granulated Sugar is 0.85 g/ml; Confectioners' Sugar is 0.5 g/ml — a 51.9% difference. But flavor, moisture, and chemistry can still differ — verify suitability for the specific recipe.
How many grams in 1 tablespoon of Granulated Sugar vs Confectioners' Sugar?▾
1 tbsp Granulated Sugar ≈ 12.5 g. 1 tbsp Confectioners' Sugar ≈ 7.5 g. By weight: 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar = 1.67 tbsp Confectioners' Sugar.
Which has more calories, Granulated Sugar or Confectioners' Sugar?▾
Per 100 g: Granulated Sugar 387 kcal, Confectioners' Sugar 389 kcal. Confectioners' Sugar has 2 more kcal.
What is Granulated Sugar typically used for?▾
Granulated Sugar is commonly used in: baking, sweetening drinks, caramel, meringues. Source: king-arthur, usda-fdc.
What is Confectioners' Sugar typically used for?▾
Confectioners' Sugar is commonly used in: frosting, icing, dusting cakes, no-bake desserts. Source: king-arthur.