How to Use a Measuring Spoon

Most recipes call for a teaspoon of this or a tablespoon of that. Unfortunately, if you don’t understand how to use measuring spoons your recipe could be a disaster. Here's a guide to help you through the basic uses of measuring spoons and how to use them correctly.

Things You'll Need

• Set of measuring spoons
• Dry goods such as flour or sugar
• Butter knife
• Spoon
• Bowl

Instructions

1. Start by learning the abbreviations used for measuring spoons and what they mean. These abbreviations are generally seen in recipes and on the handle of your measuring spoon. For instance “tbsp” stands for tablespoon while “tsp” stands for teaspoon. A tablespoon is equated to three teaspoons.

2. Find the 1 tablespoon measuring spoon and using it to scoop out some of the dried good. Flour and sugar are examples of the dried goods you could use.

3. Determine what type of measurement the recipe calls for. If the recipe calls for a heaping tablespoon, then make sure the amount of dried goods is heaping above the sides of the measuring spoon. If this is the type of measurement your recipe calls for go ahead and dump the ingredient in the bowl.

4. If your measurement calls for a tablespoon or a “level tablespoon,” make sure that the top of the dry goods in the measuring spoon are level with the sides of the spoon. You can level off the excess using the flat side of a butter knife.

5. If the recipe calls for a “packed” tablespoon, then pack as much of the ingredient in the spoon as possible. This measurement is often seen when using brown sugar as an ingredient. To “pack,” add the dried good to the measuring spoon, then using the curved side of a spoon, press the ingredient down into the spoon.

Tips & Warnings

• It’s always easier to scoop a heaping tablespoon than it is to scoop a level one.

• Try to get your measurements as exact as possible, especially when baking.