I know that you feel it. That special type of excitement that happens when you bake fresh-made foods. The look, the warmth, the hunger-inducing smell. Oh, you know it well. But none of that could happen without a particular foundation that brings it all to life. Let’s explore what makes the magic happen!
Now, the magic of baking comes together with one-part Science, one-part Skill, and one-part Creative Artistry. And, since science is an important element of this process, it’s safe to say that the correct measurement of ingredients is essential for truly incredible baking. Now, Mary Poppins may have sung about spoon fulls of sugar as she worked her magic to care for Jane and Michael, but as bakers, we must happily inquire:
Is it a teaspoon or tablespoon of sugar that helps the medicine go down best?
Why? Because accurate measurements matter. Let’s consider this idea. Imagine standing in line at Starbucks on a cold winter’s day, ordering some drinks, and paying for 1 tall latte and 1 venti latte. When they call your name for the order, you cheerfully walk over, pick up the cups but quickly notice that both of them came with the same amount of liquid in them. When you ask for an explanation as to why the amount is off, they tell you, “Oh, we thought it was the right amount but we didn’t really measure it.” Umm, you’d put a stop to that real quick, wouldn’t you? Guessing at measurements or using inconsistent measuring tools while baking is a lot like that.
Fortunately, there are some wonderfully simple and effective utensils to use for reliable measurements that will give you drool-worthy baking results in a most delightful way.
What is the best way to measure?
Baking ingredients of every texture, type, and brand are available today for your baking pleasure. Some are wet, some are dry, some are smooth and some are sticky. But all of them, no matter what they are, need to be measured. The most precise measurements are often achieved with a baking scale but the truth is that plenty of measuring cups can achieve a high level of accuracy that makes delicious bread. So, proudly use those cups.
Why do my measurements vary so much when I’m using the same utensil every time?
You might raise an eyebrow when you find out that not all measuring utensils are created equally. *Gasp* I know, it’s a little shocking. But 1-Cup or 8-ounce measurements on your utensils might not be entirely accurate.
Types of Measuring Error
The first type of measuring error can occur at the manufacturing level. A company may produce a product that has inaccurate measurements that can range from 5% margins of error or more on a utensil. Each measurement would be off and could affect your baking results.
A second type of measuring error that can occur may hit a little closer to home. In a word, you might be underfilling or overfilling the cup. The best baking results happen through the consistency of measurement. For example, when filling a measuring cup, be consistent to fill it either tightly or loosely each time according to your recipe. After it is filled, drag the flat edge of a knife along the opening of the cup to evenly level off any mounded ingredients. Depending on the outcome of your baked goods, make the necessary adjustment to your measuring technique for constant cup fill.
Best Products for Marvelously Consistent Measurements
Measuring cups come in a multitude of materials and sizes. And the right tool for the right job is ideal for an incredible baking experience. Here is a selection of quality measuring cups that will help you achieve and maintain consistency in your baking measurements. Each cup is grouped and arranged as follows:
- Large GLASS Measuring Cups and Sets for wet ingredients
- Large PLASTIC Measuring Cups and Sets for wet ingredients
- STAINLESS STEEL Measuring Cup Sets for dry ingredients
- INCREMENTAL PLASTIC Measuring Cup Sets for dry ingredients
The great thing about these cups is that their use can extend far beyond measuring a baking ingredient. It can also function as a fantastic all-around tool for your kitchen adventures. Whether it’s proofing dough, warming water in the microwave, pooling eggs, or providing a cover before dividing your dough, these cups are a smart choice.
GLASS MEASURING CUPS
Having a large measuring cup is so convenient and practical for the home challah baker. These glass and plastic cups have a wide mouth opening that makes it easy to fill and transport wet or dry ingredients. It’s also helpful for hot and cold temperature items as well.
Pyrex 4-Cup Measuring Cup
Anchor Hocking 4-Cup Measuring Cup
Pyrex Glass Measuring Cups 3 – Piece Set
Pyrex Glass Measuring Cups 4 – Piece Set
PLASTIC MEASURING CUPS
OXO Good Grips 2-Cup Angled Measuring Cup
OXO Good Grips 4-Cup Angled Measuring Cup
OXO Good Grips 3-Piece Angled Measuring Cup Set
Silicone Nesting 3-Piece Measuring Cups
I found that when opting to proof active dry yeast in warm water, the glass measuring cup maintained the temperature of the water and activated the yeast quicker and more effectively. I mixed the yeast into the water and after about 8-10 minutes, there was definitely a difference.
STAINLESS STEEL MEASURING CUPS
Smithcraft Stainless Steel Measuring Cups 8-Piece Set
OXO Stainless Steel Good Grips 4-piece Measuring Cups with Magnetic Snaps
Bellemain Stainless Steel Measuring Cup 6-Piece Set
RSVP International Endurance Stainless Steel Measuring Cups 7-Piece Set
PLASTIC MEASURING CUPS IN INCREMENTS
KitchenAid Measuring Cups 4-Piece Set
Faberware Measuring Cups 4-Piece Set
Norpro Grip-EZ Measuring Cups 6-Piece Set
Common Questions About Measuring Cups
What is the measure of a cup?
Measurement systems for baking cups are commonly marked in the American Standard System and the Metric System. The American Standard System measures a volume of 1 Cup as an equivalent to 8 Fluid Ounces (oz.) The Metric System measures a volume of 1 Cup as an equivalent to 250 milliliters (ml).
What’s the difference between dry and liquid measuring cups?
Dry ingredient measuring cups are typically designed to be filled to the very top of the measuring container. It could easily be used for scooping or mounding the ingredients and is meant to be leveled off with the straight edge of a spoon or knife for an even measure.
Wet ingredient measuring cups customarily have markings on the cup that allows for a gap between the largest measuring increment and the top of the container. This allows for sloshing and movement in the container to occur without your ingredients ending up all over the floor or all over you. It also helps you achieve greater accuracy in the measurement. Wet ingredients like water naturally create a curved surface in containers that look like a casual smile: a soft bend with ends that slightly curve upward. This is known as a meniscus and accurate measuring happens at the lowerest point of this curve.
Is 1 cup dry flour the same as 1 cup liquid water?
Yes. Measuring cups are containers that measure volume. And no matter what type of cup you use, the volume will be consistent for either ingredient type. The only thing that differs is the manner in which that volume is achieved. For instance, if you want to use a glass measuring cup for flour, make sure that once you have filled it to the desired marking you give the cup some gentle taps on the countertop or a quick shimmy to help the flour settle. Then observe if you need more or less flour to achieve your needed measurement.
The Last Thing You Need to Know about Measuring Cups
Measuring cups are multi-use utensils that are a must for your kitchen. For long term care, handwash your measuring cups when possible to maintain the best condition. Although most cups are dishwasher safe, measurement markings may slowly vanish or wear off sooner from dishwashers and cause conditions that promote knicks, cracks, and distortion.
Now it’s your turn. Let us know what your favorite measuring cups are and if you prefer to use wet, dry or both types of measuring cups when you bake.