Measuring ingredients accurately is crucial for successful baking and cooking. However, when you find yourself without a measuring cup, improvising becomes necessary. For instance, measuring 1/3 cup without a measuring cup can be a daunting task, but with a few clever tricks, it’s entirely possible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice cook, this guide will provide you with practical techniques to ensure precise measurements without relying on traditional measuring tools.
One effective method for measuring 1/3 cup without a measuring cup involves using a tablespoon. Since there are 16 tablespoons in a cup, 1/3 cup equates to approximately 5 tablespoons. Simply use a regular spoon to scoop up the ingredient and count out 5 spoonfuls. Alternatively, you can use a smaller spoon, such as a teaspoon, to measure 1/3 cup. In this case, you’ll need to count out 15 teaspoons, as there are 48 teaspoons in a cup. This method is particularly useful for measuring smaller quantities of ingredients.
Another handy technique for measuring 1/3 cup without a measuring cup is to use a kitchen scale. The accuracy of this method depends on the precision of your scale. First, place an empty bowl or container on the scale and press the “tare” button to zero out the scale. Then, gradually add the ingredient to the bowl while monitoring the weight on the scale. Continue adding the ingredient until the scale reaches 3 ounces or 85 grams, which is equivalent to 1/3 cup. This method is ideal for measuring dry ingredients, such as flour, sugar, and grains.
Kitchen Equivalents
Measuring ingredients accurately is essential for successful cooking. However, not everyone has a complete set of measuring cups and spoons on hand. Fortunately, there are several convenient ways to measure 1/3 cup without a measuring cup. Here are some common kitchen equivalents that can come in handy:
**Tablespoons:** 5 tablespoons = 1/3 cup
**Teaspoons:** 15 teaspoons = 1/3 cup
**Fluid ounces:** 5 fluid ounces = 1/3 cup
**Grams (for dry ingredients):** 60-65 grams = 1/3 cup
**Milliliters (for liquids):** 75-80 milliliters = 1/3 cup
| Measurement | Equivalent |
|---|---|
| Tablespoons | 5 |
| Teaspoons | 15 |
| Fluid ounces | 5 |
| Grams (dry ingredients) | 60-65 |
| Milliliters (liquids) | 75-80 |
Graduated Sizes
Using graduated sizes is an effective method to measure 1/3 cup without a measuring cup. Graduated sizes refer to the markings on various kitchen tools and utensils that indicate specific measurements. Here are some examples of graduated sizes that can be used:
Spoons
Standard measuring spoons come in various sizes, including 1/3 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, and 1 tablespoon. To measure 1/3 cup using spoons, you will need to combine three units of 1 tablespoon, which is equivalent to 1/3 cup.
Cups
Measuring cups are typically graduated with markings that indicate 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/2 cup, and 1 cup. If you have a measuring cup that is not graduated, you can estimate 1/3 cup by filling the cup to slightly less than halfway. Keep in mind that graduated sizes may vary slightly among different manufacturers, so it’s best to use the same type and brand of kitchenware to ensure accuracy.
| Utensil | Measurement Equivalents |
|---|---|
| 1/3 Teaspoon | 1/12 Tablespoon |
| 1/2 Teaspoon | 1/6 Tablespoon |
| 1 Teaspoon | 1/3 Tablespoon |
| 1 Tablespoon | 3 Teaspoons |
| 1/3 Cup | 3 Tablespoons |
Common Household Spoons
Measuring cups are convenient tools for precise measurements in the kitchen, but they’re not always readily available. Fortunately, there are various household spoons that can be used as substitutes for measuring 1/3 cup.
Tablespoons
A tablespoon is a common type of spoon found in most households. It typically holds 1/2 of a fluid ounce or 15 milliliters. To measure 1/3 cup using tablespoons, you’ll need to scoop 4 level tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons.
Teaspoons
A teaspoon is a smaller spoon that holds 1/6 of a fluid ounce or 5 milliliters. To measure 1/3 cup using teaspoons, you’ll need to scoop 12 level teaspoons.
Tablespoon Variations
There are different variations of tablespoons, such as heaping and scant tablespoons. A heaping tablespoon is measured by scooping the spoon over the ingredient and piling it up, while a scant tablespoon is measured by leveling off the excess ingredient.
| Type of Tablespoon | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Level Tablespoon | 15 milliliters (1/2 fluid ounce) |
| Heaping Tablespoon | Approximately 17 milliliters (0.57 fluid ounce) |
| Scant Tablespoon | Approximately 13 milliliters (0.43 fluid ounce) |
When measuring with household spoons, it’s important to use the correct type of spoon and measure ingredients accurately to ensure the desired consistency and taste in your recipes.
Comparisons with Familiar Objects
Soda Can
A standard 12-ounce soda can holds about 3/4 cup. So, to measure 1/3 cup, simply fill the can to about half its height.
Egg
A large egg is approximately 1/4 cup in volume. So, three eggs would be around 3/4 cup. To measure 1/3 cup, use two eggs.
Ice Cube Tray
A standard ice cube tray has 16 cubes, each holding about 2 tablespoons. Therefore, 12 ice cubes would be around 1 cup. To measure 1/3 cup, use four ice cubes.
Coffee Mug
A standard coffee mug holds about 1 cup. To measure 1/3 cup, fill the mug to about 1/3 of its height.
Spoon
A tablespoon holds about 1/2 fluid ounce, while a teaspoon holds about 1/6 fluid ounce. Therefore, 6 teaspoons or 2 tablespoons would be approximately 1/3 cup.
| Object | Volume (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Soda Can | 3/4 cup |
| Egg | 1/4 cup |
| Ice Cube Tray (4 cubes) | 1/3 cup |
| Coffee Mug (1/3 full) | 1/3 cup |
| Spoon (2 tablespoons) | 1/3 cup |
Shovels and Scoops
This method is suitable for dry ingredients like flour, sugar, and rice. The key is to use a spoon or scoop that holds a known volume. Here are the steps:
- Determine the volume of your spoon or scoop. You can do this by filling it with water and measuring the amount of water in milliliters or teaspoons.
- Divide the volume of your spoon or scoop by 3 to find the equivalent of 1/3 cup.
- Use your spoon or scoop to fill your measuring device multiple times until you reach the desired amount of 1/3 cup.
Common Spoons and Scoops and Their Volumes
| Spoon or Scoop | Volume (ml) | Equivalent to 1/3 Cup |
|---|---|---|
| Tablespoon | 15 | 7 tablespoons |
| Dessert spoon | 10 | 10 dessert spoons |
| Teaspoon | 5 | 14 teaspoons |
| Ice cream scoop (small) | 18 | 6 ice cream scoops |
| Ice cream scoop (medium) | 24 | 5 ice cream scoops |
Nutrition Labels
Many prepackaged foods include a nutrition label that provides information on the serving size and the amount of nutrients in the food. The serving size is usually listed in both household and metric units. To measure 1/3 cup without a measuring cup, you can use the following methods:
Use a kitchen scale
Weigh out 53 grams of the food. This is equivalent to 1/3 cup.
Use a tablespoon
Fill a tablespoon 5 times. This is equivalent to 1/3 cup.
Use a teaspoon
Fill a teaspoon 15 times. This is equivalent to 1/3 cup.
Use a mug or bowl
Fill a mug or bowl to the 6 tablespoon line. This is equivalent to 1/3 cup.
Use a ruler
Measure out 2 1/2 inches of the food. This is equivalent to 1/3 cup.
Use a hand
Make a fist with your hand. The amount of food that fits in your fist is roughly equivalent to 1/2 cup. To measure 1/3 cup, fill your fist ⅔ full.
| Method | Equivalents |
|---|---|
| Kitchen scale | 53 grams |
| Tablespoon | 5 tablespoons |
| Teaspoon | 15 teaspoons |
| Mug or bowl | 6 tablespoon line |
| Ruler | 2 1/2 inches |
| Hand | ⅔ fistful |
Cups to Teaspoons and Tablespoons Conversion Table
| Cups | Teaspoons | Tablespoons |
|---|---|---|
| 1/3 cup | 10 teaspoons | 6.67 tablespoons |
Teaspoon and Tablespoon Conversions
To measure 1/3 cup without a measuring cup, you can use teaspoons or tablespoons as alternative measurements. Here are the conversions you need:
- 1/3 cup = 10 teaspoons
- 1/3 cup = 6.67 tablespoons
Using Teaspoons
If you have a set of teaspoons, you can measure 1/3 cup by filling the spoon 10 times. To do this, scoop a heaped teaspoon of the ingredient and level it off with a straight edge like a knife or a ruler. Repeat this process until you have measured out 10 teaspoons.
Using Tablespoons
If you only have tablespoons available, you can use the ratio of 1.5 teaspoons to 1 tablespoon. To measure 1/3 cup using tablespoons, follow these steps:
- Fill a tablespoon with the ingredient and level it off.
- Measure out 4 tablespoons.
- Fill a tablespoon to the halfway point.
- Combine the 4 full tablespoons and the half-full tablespoon to get a total of 1/3 cup.
Fractions and Decimals
1/3 cup is equal to the following fractions and decimals:
| Fraction | Decimal |
|---|---|
| 1/3 | 0.333… |
Tablespoons
1/3 cup is equal to 5 tablespoons.
Teaspoons
1/3 cup is equal to 15 teaspoons.
Ounces
1/3 cup is equal to 2.67 ounces.
Milliliters
1/3 cup is equal to 79.86 milliliters.
Cups
1/3 cup is equal to 0.333 cups.
Estimated Measurements
Using a Mug or Glass
Since 1/3 cup is slightly less than 1/2 cup, you can estimate 1/3 cup by filling a mug or glass halfway.
Using a Plastic Wrap
Cover a measuring cup or glass with plastic wrap. Use a marker to mark the halfway point on the outside of the container. That line will represent 1/3 cup.
Digital Measuring Tools
Digital measuring tools are a great way to measure ingredients accurately without the need for a traditional measuring cup. These tools use a variety of technologies to weigh or measure ingredients, and they can be found in a variety of price ranges. Some of the most popular digital measuring tools include:
● Kitchen scales: Kitchen scales are the most accurate way to measure ingredients, and they can be used to measure both solids and liquids. They are available in a variety of sizes and capacities, and they can be found for as little as $10.
● Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are a great way to measure small amounts of ingredients, and they can be used to measure both solids and liquids. They are available in a variety of sizes, and they can be found for as little as $5.
● Measuring cups: Measuring cups are a good way to measure larger amounts of ingredients, and they can be used to measure both solids and liquids. They are available in a variety of sizes, and they can be found for as little as $5.
When using digital measuring tools, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. This will help to ensure that you are getting accurate measurements.
Here are some tips for using digital measuring tools:
● Make sure that the tool is calibrated before using it. This will help to ensure that you are getting accurate measurements.
● Place the tool on a level surface and zero it out before using it. This will help to ensure that you are getting accurate measurements.
● Add ingredients to the tool slowly and carefully. This will help to ensure that you are getting accurate measurements.
● Read the measurement carefully before using it. This will help to ensure that you are using the correct amount of ingredient.
| Digital Measuring Tool | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen scales | Accurate, can measure both solids and liquids | Can be expensive |
| Measuring spoons | Inexpensive, easy to use | Not as accurate as kitchen scales |
| Measuring cups | Inexpensive, easy to use | Not as accurate as kitchen scales |
Estimation Techniques
1. Use a Spoon
A tablespoon holds about 15 milliliters, while a teaspoon holds about 5 milliliters. So, to measure 1/3 cup, you can use 2 tablespoons and 1 teaspoon.
2. Use a Plastic Bottle Cap
Many plastic bottle caps hold about 5 milliliters. So, to measure 1/3 cup, you can use 6 bottle caps.
3. Use a Shot Glass
A standard shot glass holds about 45 milliliters. So, to measure 1/3 cup, you can use 1/3 of a shot glass.
4. Use a Coffee Mug
A standard coffee mug holds about 240 milliliters. So, to measure 1/3 cup, you can fill the mug about 1/8 of the way full.
5. Use a Can of Soda
A standard can of soda holds about 355 milliliters. So, to measure 1/3 cup, you can pour about 1/11 of the can.
6. Use a Bowl
Fill a bowl with water and place it on a flat surface. Mark the water level on the side of the bowl. Then, remove the water and fill the bowl with the ingredient you want to measure. Mark the new water level on the side of the bowl. The distance between the two marks represents 1/3 cup.
7. Use a Paperclip
Bend a paperclip into a U-shape. The distance between the two ends of the paperclip represents about 1/3 cup.
8. Use a Knife
Hold a knife blade flat against a cutting board. The distance from the tip of the blade to the handle represents about 1/3 cup.
9. Use a Handful
Make a fist and spread your fingers apart slightly. The amount of ingredient that fits in your hand represents about 1/3 cup.
10. Other Methods
Here are some other methods you can use to measure 1/3 cup without a measuring cup:
| Method | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Using a measuring tape | 3.5 tablespoons |
| Using a kitchen scale | 28 grams |
| Using a graduated cylinder | 80 milliliters |
How To Measure 1/3 Cup Without A Measuring Cup
If you find yourself without a measuring cup but need to measure 1/3 cup of an ingredient, don’t worry! There are a few simple methods you can use to get the job done.
One common method is to use a tablespoon. Three level tablespoons is equivalent to 1/3 cup. To measure using this method, simply spoon the ingredient into the tablespoon until it is level with the top. Repeat this process three times to get the desired amount.
Another method is to use a kitchen scale. If you have a kitchen scale, you can simply weigh out the ingredient until you reach 1/3 cup. Be sure to use the metric setting on your scale, as 1/3 cup is equivalent to 80 grams.
People Also Ask About How To Measure 1/3 Cup Without A Measuring Cup
How many tablespoons is 1/3 cup?
Three level tablespoons is equivalent to 1/3 cup.
How many teaspoons is 1/3 cup?
Six level teaspoons is equivalent to 1/3 cup.
How many ounces is 1/3 cup?
One-third cup is equivalent to 2.67 ounces.
How many milliliters is 1/3 cup?
One-third cup is equivalent to 80 milliliters.
