Is It Possible For Powdered Sugar To Expire?

Powdered sugar, also referred to as confectioner's sugar, is a finely ground sugar mixed with an additive (often cornstarch) to maintain a powdery texture. This sugar is most loved for its ability to dissolve quickly, which makes it extremely helpful for baking. 

For example, incorporating this fast-dissolving sugar into frosting provides a smooth, creamy texture that makes frosted desserts like cupcakes so delicious (per MasterClass). You can also use powdered sugar to make a variety of baked goods and even pour it into coffee and tea to sweeten them.

Another common use for powdered sugar is decorating the outside of baked goods. Covering cookies in a light dusting of powdered sugar not only magnifies their sweetness, but it also gives them a beautiful, snowy appearance that granulated sugar simply cannot provide. It would be wonderful if a sugar this delicious and helpful never expired. But is that actually the case?

According to Eat By Date, powdered sugar, like all types of sugar, stays good for an indefinite amount of time, whether opened or unopened. 

However, though powdered sugar doesn't ever really expire, it's best if you use it within two years. After two years, sugar undergoes changes in texture. Powdered sugar, in particular, begins to clump up after the two-year mark, which some people may not enjoy. Even so, it's generally still safe to consume it after two years if you're storing it properly.

That said, how should you store powdered sugar? According to Leaf, it's best if you pour powdered sugar from its original package into a freezer bag. After sealing the bag, place it in an airtight container. The freezer bag and airtight container protect the powdered sugar from the air, which is beneficial because this type of sugar has the tendency to absorb surrounding aromas. Store the sugar in a dry, cool area to ensure that its texture doesn't become clumpy.

Have you ever bought a package of powdered sugar and noticed a number on the label followed by an "X"? According to Martha Stewart, the number and the "X" signifies how many times the powdered sugar is milled. So, for example, 6x powdered sugar is milled six times, while 10x powdered sugar is milled 10 times.

The number of times powdered sugar has been milled may affect what type you need to use. Because 6x powdered sugar is larger than 10x powdered sugar, it's generally the best option for making frosting; it's fine, but not too fine (per Bakers Authority). Because 10x powdered sugar is a bit more fine than 6x powdered sugar, it contains a higher cornstarch content, which prevents it from sticking to itself. This higher cornstarch level makes 10x powdered sugar less sweet than 6x powdered sugar. So, this difference in taste may encourage those with a sweet tooth to rely on 6x powdered sugar, or those who like less sweet desserts to use 10x powdered sugar. 

Regardless of the type of powdered sugar you use, keep in mind that this delicious ingredient can last indefinitely if properly stored.