Kitchen Measurement Conversions Every Cook Should Know
Cooking is much easier when you know a few basic measurement conversions. Whether you're doubling a recipe, cutting one in half, or trying to figure out how many tablespoons are in a cup, this quick reference can save time in the kitchen.
Common Kitchen Measurements
- 3 teaspoons = 1 tablespoon
- 2 tablespoons = 1 fluid ounce
- 4 tablespoons = ¼ cup
- 5 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon = ⅓ cup
- 8 tablespoons = ½ cup
- 12 tablespoons = ¾ cup
- 16 tablespoons = 1 cup
- 2 cups = 1 pint
- 4 cups = 1 quart
- 4 quarts = 1 gallon
Useful Fraction Conversions
If you need to reduce a recipe:
- Half of 1 cup = ½ cup
- Half of ¾ cup = 6 tablespoons
- Half of ⅔ cup = ⅓ cup
- Half of ½ cup = ¼ cup
- Half of ⅓ cup = 2 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons
- Half of ¼ cup = 2 tablespoons
- Half of 1 tablespoon = 1½ teaspoons
Butter Measurements
- 1 stick butter = ½ cup
- ½ stick butter = ¼ cup
- 1 stick butter = 8 tablespoons
- 2 sticks butter = 1 cup
A Simple Kitchen Tip
When measuring dry ingredients such as flour or sugar, fill the measuring cup and level the top rather than packing the ingredient down unless the recipe specifically tells you to. Brown sugar is an exception because recipes commonly call for it to be packed.
For liquids, place the measuring cup on a level surface and check the amount at eye level.