Need a quick answer for your recipe? Here it is:
✅ 1 cup = 16 tablespoons
If you want to convert different amounts easily, use the calculator below:
Convert Cups to Tablespoons
Many recipes require quick conversions between cups and tablespoons. Knowing that 1 cup equals 16 tablespoons makes measuring much easier, especially when you don’t have a cup measurement handy.
Related Conversions
- How Many Tablespoons in 1/4 Cup
- How Many Tablespoons in 1/3 Cup
- How Many Tablespoons in 1/2 Cup
- How Many Teaspoons in a Tablespoon
If you’re in the middle of cooking and your recipe calls for a cup, but all you have is a set of measuring spoons, don’t worry—this quick guide will help you convert with confidence.
How Many Tablespoons in a Cup?
Quick Answer:
There are 16 tablespoons in 1 cup.
This is based on the U.S. measurement system, where 1 cup = 8 fluid ounces, and 1 fluid ounce = 2 tablespoons.
So:
1 cup = 8 oz × 2 tablespoons = 16 tablespoons
How to Convert Cups to Tablespoons
To convert cups to tablespoons, just multiply the number of cups by 16.
Formula:
Cups × 16 = Tablespoons
Example:
0.5 cups × 16 = 8 tablespoons
This conversion applies to most cooking and baking recipes using the U.S. system.
Conversion Table: Cups to Tablespoons
| Cups | Tablespoons |
|---|---|
| 1/8 cup | 2 tbsp |
| 1/4 cup | 4 tbsp |
| 1/3 cup | 5 tbsp + 1 tsp |
| 1/2 cup | 8 tbsp |
| 3/4 cup | 12 tbsp |
| 1 cup | 16 tbsp |
| 1.5 cups | 24 tbsp |
| 2 cups | 32 tbsp |
This table is helpful if you’re doubling or halving recipes, or working without measuring cups.
Cup and Tablespoon – What’s the Difference?
A cup is a larger unit of volume often used for both dry and liquid ingredients.
A tablespoon is a smaller unit, used for more precise measurements—especially for spices, oils, and baking ingredients.
In most U.S. kitchens:
- 1 tablespoon = about 14.8 milliliters
- 1 cup = about 240 milliliters
Always use the correct tools for the job:
- Dry ingredients → use dry measuring cups and level them with a knife
- Liquids → use a liquid measuring cup and check at eye level
- Small quantities → use measuring spoons (tablespoons and teaspoons)
Metric Conversions
If you’re using metric recipes, here’s a quick reference:
| Measurement | Volume in mL |
|---|---|
| 1 tablespoon (U.S.) | ~14.8 mL |
| 1 cup (U.S.) | ~240 mL |
| 1 tablespoon (Metric) | 15 mL |
| 1 tablespoon (Australia) | 20 mL |
Tip: The small difference between U.S. and metric tablespoons is usually not enough to affect most home recipes.
Tablespoons to Cups (Reverse Conversion)
Sometimes you need to go the other way—from tablespoons back to cups. Just divide the number of tablespoons by 16.
Formula:
Tablespoons ÷ 16 = Cups
Example:
8 tablespoons ÷ 16 = 0.5 cups
| Tablespoons | Cups |
|---|---|
| 2 tbsp | 1/8 cup |
| 4 tbsp | 1/4 cup |
| 8 tbsp | 1/2 cup |
| 12 tbsp | 3/4 cup |
| 16 tbsp | 1 cup |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tablespoons are in half a cup?
There are 8 tablespoons in 1/2 cup.
Is the conversion the same for dry and liquid ingredients?
Yes, in volume measurements, 1 cup equals 16 tablespoons for both dry and liquid ingredients.
Can I use a regular spoon instead of a tablespoon?
A regular spoon is not accurate for measuring. It’s best to use a standard measuring tablespoon for reliable results.
Summary
- 1 cup = 16 tablespoons
- Use cups × 16 to convert to tablespoons
- Use tablespoons ÷ 16 to convert back to cups
- Always check your recipe origin (U.S., Metric, Australian)
- Use proper tools: cups for volume, spoons for precision
Whether you’re baking a cake, prepping a sauce, or scaling a family recipe, this quick conversion will help you save time and cook with confidence.