Tool to Convert Cups to Tablespoons
When cooking or baking, converting between cups and tablespoons is one of the most common measurements you’ll need. Whether you’re following a new recipe or adjusting portion sizes, knowing how to switch from cups to tablespoons makes everything easier.
Quick Answer
✅ 1 cup = 16 tablespoons
This is the standard U.S. conversion. No matter the ingredient, if you’re measuring by volume, this rule applies.
How to Convert Cups to Tablespoons
To convert cups to tablespoons, multiply the number of cups by 16.
Formula:
Cups × 16 = Tablespoons
Examples:
- 1/4 cup = 4 tablespoons
- 1/2 cup = 8 tablespoons
- 3/4 cup = 12 tablespoons
- 1.5 cups = 24 tablespoons
This works for both liquid and dry ingredients, assuming you’re using the proper tools.
Cups to Tablespoons Conversion Table
| 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 |
| 1.25 cup | 20 tbsp |
| 1.5 cup | 24 tbsp |
| 2 cups | 32 tbsp |
This table is great to keep on hand when doubling or halving recipes or working without measuring cups.
Measuring Tips
- Dry ingredients (like flour or sugar): Use dry measuring cups and level them off with a knife.
- Liquid ingredients (like water or oil): Use a liquid measuring cup on a flat surface.
- Small amounts: Use proper measuring spoons instead of estimating.
U.S. vs. Metric Conversions
Most U.S. recipes follow the rule:
1 cup = 16 tablespoons ≈ 240 ml
In metric countries, a tablespoon is usually 15 ml (vs. ~14.8 ml in the U.S.), and a cup may be 250 ml. These differences are small, but it’s good to be aware when following international recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tablespoons are in 1 cup?
There are 16 tablespoons in 1 cup.
Can I use this for both dry and liquid ingredients?
Yes. Volume-wise, 1 cup = 16 tablespoons applies to both. Just be sure to use the right measuring tools.
What’s the difference between U.S. and metric tablespoons?
A U.S. tablespoon is about 14.8 ml, while a metric one is 15 ml. The difference is minimal and usually doesn’t affect everyday recipes.
People also ask
How many tablespoons are in a cup of butter?
There are 16 tablespoons in 1 cup of butter, just like any other ingredient measured by volume.
How many tablespoons are in 1/2 cup?
1/2 cup equals 8 tablespoons.
Is 1 cup equal to 8 or 16 tablespoons?
1 cup equals 16 tablespoons, not 8. The confusion often comes from thinking in ounces (1 cup = 8 fluid ounces).
How many teaspoons in a cup?
There are 48 teaspoons in 1 cup, since 1 tablespoon = 3 teaspoons and 1 cup = 16 tablespoons.
How do I convert cups to tablespoons without a calculator?
Multiply the number of cups by 16. For example, 0.25 cup × 16 = 4 tablespoons.
What is half of 1/4 cup in tablespoons?
Half of 1/4 cup is 2 tablespoons.
How do I measure 1/4 cup if I don’t have a measuring cup?
Use 4 level tablespoons to equal 1/4 cup.
Is a cup measurement the same worldwide?
No. In the U.S., 1 cup is about 240 ml, while in some countries like Australia, it’s 250 ml.
Can I use a regular spoon instead of a measuring tablespoon?
Not recommended. Regular spoons vary in size. A proper measuring tablespoon holds about 14.8 ml in the U.S.
How many tablespoons are in a dry cup of flour?
There are still 16 tablespoons in a dry cup by volume, but the weight varies depending on the ingredient.
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
Summary
- 1 cup = 16 tablespoons
- Multiply cups by 16 to convert
- Works for both liquid and dry volume measurements
- Use proper tools for the most accurate results
- Bookmark this page or use the calculator above anytime you need a quick answer