Have you ever seen a recipe that calls for superfine sugar, and thought to yourself “I don’t have any superfine sugar – I wonder if I really need to use superfine?” Because I don’t normally keep superfine sugar on hand, I’ve wondered that to myself on more than one occasion.
Superfine sugar is basically normal granulated sugar that has been ground very fine. It is sometimes also called baker’s sugar or castor sugar. It’s advantage is that it dissolved very quickly. I’ve found that when making recipes like caramel out of sugar, it works much better because it dissolves and melts much quicker. But can you substitute regular sugar for superfine sugar?
I wouldn’t recommend it. Usually, when a recipe calls for superfine sugar, it’s because the sugar needs to dissolve quickly – for things like meringues or angel food cakes. But do not fear – it’s easy to make your own! All you need is regular granulated sugar and a food processor. Just put the sugar in the food processor and turn it on for about a minute. Let the sugar dust settle for a second or two before opening the lid! That’s all it takes! You can use a blender in a pinch, but it definitely won’t work as well as a food processor.
Now I’m off to make some meringues!
Great info!!! Thanks for clearing one of my cooking mysteries up!!
I have neither blender nor food processor. I use my sieve. Really. I get superfine sugar from that all the time. Thanx for info.
Good to know….thanks!
~ingrid