How to Use Measuring Spoons and Cups
Know the difference between liquid and dry measures, and use the appropriate one for each task., Use a liquid measure for liquids, such as water, milk or oil., Use a dry measure for powders, such as sugar, salt, and baking powder., Measure a liquid...
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Step 1: Know the difference between liquid and dry measures
While they hold the same volume, they are used differently.
Measurements are labeled on each measure. -
Step 2: and use the appropriate one for each task.
Fill the cup to the appropriate line, place it on a level surface, and read it with your eye at the level of the liquid.
Water surface curves downward, so use the bottom of the curve for accurate measurement and not the edge that is against the measuring cup.
This is helpful for bread recipes in which the exact amount of water is crucial. , Spoon or scoop the powder lightly into the cup.
Run a knife or spatula across the top to level the surface and scrape any excess back into the jar or canister. ,, Many baking powder cans come with a built-in edge for leveling.
In a pinch, you can also use the edge of the lid. , This quantity is not so precise, but it is generally a moderately sized, round mound, or heap of the dry ingredient in addition to that which fills the spoon. , Again, this is an imprecise measurement. , For instance, 1 3/4 teaspoons is 1 teaspoon plus 1/2 teaspoon plus 1/4 teaspoon. -
Step 3: Use a liquid measure for liquids
-
Step 4: such as water
-
Step 5: milk or oil.
-
Step 6: Use a dry measure for powders
-
Step 7: such as sugar
-
Step 8: and baking powder.
-
Step 9: Measure a liquid in a measuring spoon by filling it full.
-
Step 10: Use measuring spoons for dry ingredients by filling and then leveling with the straight edge of a spatula or knife.
-
Step 11: Measure a "heaping" or "rounded" tablespoon
-
Step 12: teaspoon
-
Step 13: or (less frequently) cup.
-
Step 14: Measure a "scant" cup or spoon by filling the measure not completely full
-
Step 15: or by shaking or pouring a little bit out.
-
Step 16: Add measurements if you don't have a measure that size.
Detailed Guide
While they hold the same volume, they are used differently.
Measurements are labeled on each measure.
Fill the cup to the appropriate line, place it on a level surface, and read it with your eye at the level of the liquid.
Water surface curves downward, so use the bottom of the curve for accurate measurement and not the edge that is against the measuring cup.
This is helpful for bread recipes in which the exact amount of water is crucial. , Spoon or scoop the powder lightly into the cup.
Run a knife or spatula across the top to level the surface and scrape any excess back into the jar or canister. ,, Many baking powder cans come with a built-in edge for leveling.
In a pinch, you can also use the edge of the lid. , This quantity is not so precise, but it is generally a moderately sized, round mound, or heap of the dry ingredient in addition to that which fills the spoon. , Again, this is an imprecise measurement. , For instance, 1 3/4 teaspoons is 1 teaspoon plus 1/2 teaspoon plus 1/4 teaspoon.
About the Author
Ruth Lee
Ruth Lee is an experienced writer with over 6 years of expertise in lifestyle and practical guides. Passionate about sharing practical knowledge, Ruth creates easy-to-follow guides that help readers achieve their goals.
Rate This Guide
How helpful was this guide? Click to rate: