Batch Scaling Around 120g Powdered / Confectioners' Sugar
| Batch Scale | Weight (g / oz) | US Cups & Spoons | Metric (mL) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Half Batch (0.5×) | 60g (2.12 oz) | ½ cup | 118.3 mL |
| Standard (1×) | 120g (4.23 oz) | 1 cup | 236.6 mL |
| 1.5× Batch | 180g (6.35 oz) | 1 ½ cups | 354.9 mL |
| Double Batch (2×) | 240g (8.47 oz) | 2 cups | 473.2 mL |
| Triple Batch (3×) | 360g (12.7 oz) | 3 cups | 709.8 mL |
Measuring 120g of Powdered / Confectioners' Sugar in the Kitchen
Because 1 US Customary Cup (236.6 mL) of powdered / confectioners' sugar weighs 120g when measured unsifted spooned, 120 Grams (120g) translates to 1.00 US cups (1 cup). By contrast, using the sifted measure (100g/cup — a 20g per-cup shift), 120g occupies 1 cup + 3 tbsp + ½ tsp (1.20 cups).
Without a kitchen scale, measure 1 cup (16 tablespoons total) using unsifted spooned technique. Spoon gently into the measuring cup and level flat. If your recipe calls for sifted powdered sugar, measure after sifting (100g/cup) or weigh directly.
Source note: USDA FoodData Central #169658 & Domino Confectioners 10-X specifications
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cups is 120 grams of powdered / confectioners' sugar? ▾
120 grams of powdered / confectioners' sugar (unsifted spooned, 120g per US cup) equals 1 cup (1.00 US Customary Cups, 0.95 Metric 250 mL cups, or 16 tablespoons).
Why does powdered sugar contain cornstarch? ▾
Commercial confectioners sugar contains about 3% cornstarch as an anti-caking agent to prevent the microscopic particles from clumping.
Why do recipes specify sifted versus unsifted powdered sugar? ▾
Sifted powdered sugar traps significant air, dropping cup weight from 120g down to 100g—a 20% reduction in sweetness.