In the test kitchen, we use measurements of weight, volume, size, time, and temperature to help ensure that our recipes are foolproof. We truly do believe that careful measuring will make you a better cook. Check out the top measuring tools below, see what they're best used for, and more importantly, why they're highly recommended by our team.
Cooking Tips
How to Carefully Measure Ingredients
Accurate measuring will make you a better cook. See how.
By Published June 21, 2023.
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10 ingredients. 45 minutes. Quick, easy, and fresh weeknight recipes.
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Scales
Digital kitchen scales provide the most accurate means of measuring dry ingredients, especially in baking. We also use them for tasks such as weighing burgers to ensure even sizing.
The test kitchen's testing winner is from OXO Good Grips; it costs about $55.
Liquid Measuring Cups
We like clear glass (or Pyrex) liquid measuring cups best because their markings are easy to read and they are safe to heat in the microwave. Durable markings are important, too. The test kitchen's favorite model is from Pyrex.
TIP: To measure liquids, fill a liquid measuring cup, place it on the counter, bend down so the cup's markings are at eye level, and then slowly pour in the liquid. Fill until the center of the liquid (which curves slightly downward) is at the desired measurement.
Adjustable Measuring Cups
The best tool for measuring semisolid, sticky ingredients such as honey, peanut butter, mayonnaise, ketchup, and sour cream is an adjustable measuring cup. The plunger-style design makes accurate measuring and tidy unloading a breeze. Our testing winner, from KitchenArt, costs about $12 and features an easy-to-clean plastic barrel with clear measurement markings and an easy-to-use plunger insert.
Read our full review of adjustable measuring cups.
Measuring Spoons
Every time we test them, we're surprised at how many bad measuring spoons are on the market. As with much kitchen gear, simpler measuring spoons are better. Our favorite measuring spoons are made by Cuisipro.
Dry Measuring Cups
Good dry measuring cups are accurate, durable, and stackable and allow you to dip and sweep easily. In our testing, measuring cups made by OXO Good Grips were the best of the lot.
TIP: When measuring dry ingredients, we use the dip-and-sweep method to ensure accuracy. Dip the measuring cup into an ingredient and scoop so the cup is overflowing, and then scrape the top level using a flat surface such as the back edge of a knife (as shown above).