Accurate Kitchen Measurements

Baking is a science, and exact measurements are the key to consistent results. Here's a guide to understanding common kitchen measurements and how to convert them.

Volume vs. Weight

In the United States, most recipes use volume measurements (cups, tablespoons). In Europe and most of the rest of the world, recipes use weight (grams, kilograms).

Measuring by weight is much more accurate. A "cup of flour" can vary wildly depending on how tightly it is packed, but "120 grams of flour" is exactly the same amount every time.

Common Volume Conversions

• 3 Teaspoons = 1 Tablespoon
• 16 Tablespoons = 1 Cup
• 2 Cups = 1 Pint
• 4 Cups = 1 Quart
• 16 Cups = 1 Gallon

Butter Conversions

Butter measurements can be particularly confusing because they mix volume, weight, and arbitrary shapes (sticks).

• 1 Stick of Butter = 1/2 Cup = 8 Tablespoons
• 1 Stick of Butter = 4 Ounces = 113.4 Grams

Use the Cooking tab on Unit Master to quickly translate recipes from around the world into the measurements you are comfortable with.