Can I use powdered sugar to make a drink?

Answered by John Watkins

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to your question about using powdered sugar to make a drink. While it is technically possible to use powdered sugar in certain drink recipes, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, it's important to note that most powdered sugar available commercially contains corn starch as an anti-caking agent. This can affect the texture and consistency of your drink, especially if you are using it in larger quantities. The corn starch might not dissolve completely, resulting in a slightly grainy or thickened texture.

If you are using powdered sugar that does not contain any additional ingredients or anti-caking agents, then it can be used in certain drinks without any major issues. However, it's worth noting that powdered sugar is typically made from granulated sugar that has been finely ground, so it might not dissolve as easily or evenly as regular granulated sugar.

When it comes to using powdered sugar in drinks, it's best suited for recipes that require a small amount of sugar and where the texture is not a crucial factor. For example, you can use powdered sugar to sweeten a cup of or , as the hot liquid can help dissolve it more effectively. However, be aware that the corn starch in the powdered sugar might slightly alter the taste or mouthfeel of your drink.

In some cases, using powdered sugar can also be a matter of personal preference. Some people might enjoy the slight thickness or texture it adds to their drink, while others might find it undesirable. It's always worth experimenting and adjusting the amount of powdered sugar to suit your taste.

In my personal experience, I have used powdered sugar in certain cocktail recipes that called for a small amount of sweetness. For example, I have used it to make a powdered sugar rim for a or to sweeten a homemade lemonade. In these instances, the small amount of powdered sugar worked well and dissolved adequately.

To summarize, while it is possible to use powdered sugar to make a drink, it's important to consider the presence of additional ingredients such as corn starch and the potential impact on texture and taste. Experimentation and personal preference play a role in determining whether using powdered sugar is suitable for a particular drink recipe.