Kitchen Measurement Conversions: Cups, Tablespoons, mL & More
Convert between cups, tablespoons, teaspoons, milliliters, and more. Includes tables, tips, metric vs US, and practical kitchen advice for cooks and bakers.
Introduction
Cooking and baking often require converting between different measurement systems. This guide helps you confidently switch between metric and US units in the kitchen.
Key Kitchen Units
- Cup: US cup = 240 mL; Metric cup = 250 mL.
- Tablespoon (tbsp): US = 15 mL; UK/Australia = 20 mL.
- Teaspoon (tsp): 5 mL (universal).
- Milliliter (mL): Metric volume unit.
- Liter (L): 1,000 mL.
- Fluid ounce (fl oz): US = 29.57 mL; UK = 28.41 mL.
Volume Conversion Table
| Unit | To Milliliters (mL) |
|---|---|
| 1 US cup | 240 mL |
| 1 Metric cup | 250 mL |
| 1 tbsp (US) | 15 mL |
| 1 tbsp (UK/AUS) | 20 mL |
| 1 tsp | 5 mL |
| 1 fl oz (US) | 29.57 mL |
| 1 fl oz (UK) | 28.41 mL |
Metric vs US Measurements
- US recipes use 240 mL per cup; metric recipes use 250 mL.
- Australian/UK tablespoon is larger (20 mL) than US (15 mL).
Tips for Accuracy
- Use proper measuring cups and spoons for dry and liquid ingredients.
- Level off dry ingredients for accuracy.
- Double-check which system your recipe uses.
Example Conversions
- Convert 2 US cups to mL: 2 × 240 = 480 mL
- Convert 3 tbsp (AUS) to mL: 3 × 20 = 60 mL
- Convert 4 fl oz (US) to mL: 4 × 29.57 = 118.28 mL
FAQ
- Can I use a US cup for metric recipes? Yes, but adjust for the 10 mL difference if precision matters.
- Why are my results different from the recipe? Measurement system differences or inaccurate measuring tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a US cup and a metric cup?
A US cup is 240 mL, while a metric cup is 250 mL. Always check which system your recipe uses.
How many milliliters are in a tablespoon?
US tablespoon = 15 mL, UK/Australia tablespoon = 20 mL.
How do I convert between kitchen units?
Use the conversion tables above or an online converter for quick results.