Grams to Tablespoons Powdered Sugar Conversion – Confectioners Sugar Calculator
Quickly convert grams of powdered sugar (confectioners sugar or icing sugar) to tablespoons and back again. Powdered sugar is less dense than granulated sugar, so 1 tablespoon ≈8 grams. Use the calculator, reference table, and tips below for accurate baking measurements.
Powdered Sugar Calculator
Formula: tablespoons = grams ÷ 5.91 (approx.).
What Are Grams and Tablespoons?
A gram (g) is a unit of mass in the metric system (1 g ≈0.03527 oz). A tablespoon (tbsp) is a unit of volume equal to 3 teaspoons, or about 14.7868 milliliters. Mass and volume measure different things, so you need the ingredient's density to convert between them.1
Powdered Sugar Density and Formula
Powdered sugar, also called confectioners sugar or icing sugar, has a much lower density than granulated sugar because it contains cornstarch and is finely ground. Its density is approximately ~0.4 g/mL, making it significantly lighter per tablespoon than granulated sugar.
tablespoons = grams ÷ 5.91
grams = tablespoons Ã 5.91
More precisely, tablespoons = grams ÷ (14.7868 Ã density). For powdered sugar with density ~0.4 g/mL, this gives approximately 5.91 grams per tablespoon.2
Note: Results are approximate. Sifting, humidity, and brand can affect how powdered sugar packs into measuring spoons.
Powdered Sugar Conversion Table
This table lists common gram amounts with their approximate tablespoon equivalents for powdered sugar.
| Grams (g) | Tablespoons (tbsp) |
|---|
Assumes 1 tbsp ≈5.91 g for powdered sugar. Real-world results vary based on sifting, humidity, and packing.
Tips for Accurate Measuring
- Sift before measuring: Powdered sugar can clump. Sifting ensures accurate volume measurements.
- Weighing is best: A kitchen scale gives the most reliable powdered sugar measurements.2
- Don't pack: Lightly spoon powdered sugar into measuring spoons without packing it down.
- Keep it dry: Moisture can cause powdered sugar to clump and pack more densely.
- Brand differences: Different brands may have slightly different densities due to cornstarch content.
FAQs
How many tablespoons is 50 g of powdered sugar?
About 8.46 tbsp (50 ÷ 5.91). Use the calculator for exact rounding.
How many grams is 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar?
About 17.73 g (3 Ã 5.91).
Is powdered sugar the same as confectioners sugar?
Yes. Powdered sugar, confectioners sugar, and icing sugar all refer to the same finely ground sugar mixed with cornstarch.
Why does powdered sugar weigh less per tablespoon than granulated sugar?
Powdered sugar has a lower density (~0.4 g/mL vs ~0.8 g/mL) because it contains cornstarch and is more aerated due to its fine texture.
Should I sift powdered sugar before measuring?
Yes, especially if clumps have formed. Sifting ensures consistent density and accurate volume measurements.
Sources
- Tablespoon ≈14.7868 mL; density needed to convert mass to volume.2
- Measurement accuracy and density guidance; tablespoons derived from grams and density.
To keep this page fast and focused, external links are omitted. Values reflect commonly cited references in food measurement guides and baking references.