How to Measure Ingredients for Recipes

It's a no-brainer: most recipes need exact measurements. But do you have what it takes to tackle that cookie recipe? Maybe, maybe not. Let's find out.

Things You'll Need

• Liquid measuring cups
• Dry-ingredient measuring cups
• Set of measuring spoons
• Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

1. Assess your current measuring situation. With apartments being so tiny and kitchen cupboard space often nonexistent, some of you might be relying on your liquid measuring cup to appraise how much sugar or flour you need, which would make Alton Brown cringe! The difference isn't so much about the volume (pour a cup of flour into a liquid measuring cup, you'll still end up with a cup of flour)--but the measuring accuracy, which is essential for baked goods.

2. Understand the differences between and the benefits of dry as opposed to liquid measuring cups. Graded, dry measuring cups allow you to scoop and level dry ingredients, as the proper way to measure is to scoop the graded cup into a bag of sugar, flour or other dry ingredient, and then level the top with a knife, which can't be done with a liquid measuring cup. Similarly, you can't measure liquids in dry measure cups. The liquid measure is usually clear (and made from Pyrex), enabling the cook to pour the liquid into the measuring cup with room enough at the top to prevent spillage.

3. Foresee potential "sticky" situations. One good tip for measuring more difficult substances, like honey, for instance, is to spray the inside of the liquid cup with nonstick cooking spray so that nothing will stick. And stop relying on one of your soup spoons--pick up a set of measuring spoons that range from 1/8 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon--that should definitely cover you. If you make the investment and use the right measuring tools, your recipes, and potentially your guests, will thank you.

Tips & Warnings

• Baking really does require accurate measuring. Being a small amount off on your salt measurement could make the taste of your baked treat suffer. So, be careful when you measure, and always use the proper instruments.