Comprehensive Guide to Cooking Measurements, Conversions, and Tips

Volume Measurements

• 1 tablespoon (tbsp) = 3 teaspoons (tsp)
• 1 cup = 16 tablespoons = 48 teaspoons = 240 milliliters (ml)
• 1 pint = 2 cups = 480 milliliters (ml)
• 1 quart = 4 cups = 960 milliliters (ml)
• 1 gallon = 4 quarts = 3.8 liters
• 1 liter = 4.2 cups = 1000 milliliters

Weight Measurements

Weight varies by ingredient, so precision is key:

• 1 cup of flour = 120 grams
• 1 cup of sugar = 200 grams
• 1 cup of butter = 227 grams
• 1 ounce (oz) = 28 grams
• 1 pound (lb) = 16 ounces = 450 grams

Temperature Measurements

Convert between Celsius and Fahrenheit easily:

• Fahrenheit to Celsius: (°F – 32) ÷ 1.8 = °C
• Celsius to Fahrenheit: (°C × 1.8) + 32 = °F

Fun fact: The boiling point of water is 100°C or 212°F at sea level.

Liquid Measurements

• 1 gallon = 4 quarts = 16 cups = 128 fluid ounces
• 1 quart = 4 cups = 32 fluid ounces
• 1 pint = 2 cups = 16 fluid ounces
• 1 cup = 8 fluid ounces = 240 milliliters

Dry Ingredient Conversions

Common ingredient weights per cup:

• Flour: 120 grams
• Granulated sugar: 200 grams
• Brown sugar (packed): 220 grams
• Powdered sugar: 120 grams
• Rolled oats: 80 grams
• Uncooked rice: 190 grams
• Cocoa powder: 85 grams

Key Cooking Terminology

Understanding basic methods ensures recipe success:

• Baking: Cooking with dry heat in an oven.
• Boiling: Cooking food in rapidly bubbling liquid (100°C or 212°F).
• Simmering: Gentle cooking at 85–95°C (185–203°F).
• Frying: Cooking in hot fat or oil, either pan-fried or deep-fried.
• Sautéing: Quick cooking with a small amount of oil over medium-high heat.

Ingredient Substitutions

When you’re out of an ingredient or need dietary alternatives:

• Eggs: Replace one egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas.
• Milk: Use unsweetened almond, soy, or oat milk.
• Butter: Substitute with olive oil, vegetable oil, or coconut oil.
• Heavy Cream: Combine 1 cup milk with 1/4 cup melted butter.

Dietary-Friendly Options

• Gluten-Free Flour: Replace with almond flour, rice flour, or gluten-free blends.
• Dairy-Free Milk: Swap with coconut milk or oat milk.
• Sugar-Free Sweeteners: Use stevia or monk fruit as natural substitutes.

Baking Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures smooth batter consistency.
• Measuring Flour: Spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
• Preheating: Always preheat your oven to the required temperature before baking.
• Resting Dough: Let dough rest as instructed for optimal texture and flavor.