What ingredient is mixed with finely powdered sugar to keep it from lumping together?

What ingredient is mixed with finely powdered sugar to keep it from lumping together?

• A. Cornstarch
• B. Baking powder
• C. Gelatin
• D. Milk powder

Answer: (A)

Cornstarch is commonly mixed with finely powdered sugar to prevent clumping. When sugar is ground into a fine powder, it has a tendency to absorb moisture from the air, which can cause it to form lumps. Adding cornstarch helps to absorb excess moisture and keeps the sugar free-flowing. This is particularly important for applications in baking and pastry making, where a smooth texture is desired for the even distribution of sugar in recipes. The other ingredients listed do not serve the same purpose. Baking powder is a leavening agent that is used to help baked goods rise, and while it does contain starch, its primary function is very different. Gelatin is a thickening agent or stabilizer, often used in desserts but not effective for preventing sugar clumping. Milk powder offers nutritional benefits and flavor but does not provide the anti-caking properties needed to keep powdered sugar from lumping.

Cornstarch is commonly mixed with finely powdered sugar to prevent clumping. When sugar is ground into a fine powder, it has a tendency to absorb moisture from the air, which can cause it to form lumps. Adding cornstarch helps to absorb excess moisture and keeps the sugar free-flowing. This is particularly important for applications in baking and pastry making, where a smooth texture is desired for the even distribution of sugar in recipes.

The other ingredients listed do not serve the same purpose. Baking powder is a leavening agent that is used to help baked goods rise, and while it does contain starch, its primary function is very different. Gelatin is a thickening agent or stabilizer, often used in desserts but not effective for preventing sugar clumping. Milk powder offers nutritional benefits and flavor but does not provide the anti-caking properties needed to keep powdered sugar from lumping.