Are you cooking a recipe that calls for ingredients by the cup and you don’t have a measuring cup on hand? Or perhaps measurements are given to you in cups but you only have spoons? Not to worry, we’ve all been there! Fortunately, knowing the exact amount of tablespoons needed for a particular measurement is easy – all you need to do is know exactly how many tablespoons in a cup. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into understanding the conversions between cups and tablespoons, so let’s get started!
Contents
- 1 What is a tablespoon?
- 2 The history of the tablespoon and cup
- 3 How many tablespoons in a cup?
- 4 Different cup and tablespoon sizes
- 5 Is there a Difference Between Wet and Dry Measurements?
- 6 How to Measure with Tablespoons and Cups?
- 7 How to measure without measuring spoons
- 8 Converting tablespoons to cups and vice versa
- 9 Some common recipes that use tablespoons and cups
- 10 Tips on Measuring Tablespoons, Teaspoons, and Cups
- 11 Conclusion: how many tablespoons in a cup
- 12 FAQs: tablespoons in a cup
- 12.1 How many tablespoons does it take to fill 1 measured cup?
- 12.2 Does 2 tablespoons equal 1 cup?
- 12.3 Does 1 tbsp equal 1/8 of a cup?
- 12.4 How many dry tablespoons in a cup?
- 12.5 Does 5 tablespoons equal 1 4 cup?
- 12.6 How do I measure a tablespoon of a cup?
- 12.7 How many tablespoons of liquid are in a cup?
- 12.8 How many tablespoons of sauce in a cup?
- 12.9 Is 7 tablespoons half a cup?
- 12.10 How many tablespoons is 2 dry cups?
- 12.11 How many tablespoons are in a cup of coffee?
What is a tablespoon?
A tablespoon is a unit of measurement that is equal to 1/16th of a cup. It’s typically used to measure ingredients like sugar, flour, or butter when baking or cooking. A tablespoon can also be referred to as a “tbsp” and it’s equivalent to 15 milliliters (or 0.5 fluid ounces).

The history of the tablespoon and cup
The tablespoon was first introduced in the 16th century and has been used ever since. It is believed that it was derived from the old English word “tablespoonful” which referred to how much a person would eat at one sitting.
The cup, on the other hand, is an ancient unit of measurement, with its roots tracing back to the ancient Greek and Roman eras. It was introduced as a way to measure out how much food or liquid would fill one cup-shaped vessel.
How many tablespoons in a cup?
So, how many tablespoons in a cup? The answer is 16. That means that one cup is equal to 16 tablespoons. If you need to measure out ingredients by the tablespoon and your recipe calls for cups, then you’ll need to convert the amount of cups into tablespoons.
Different cup and tablespoon sizes
It’s important to note that different countries and parts of the world can have varying sizes for their tablespoons and cups. In the United States, one cup is equal to 16 tablespoons (or 8 ounces). However, in some other countries like Australia, one cup is equal to 20 tablespoons. So it’s important to make sure you know how many tablespoons are in one cup for whatever part of the world you’re cooking in.

Is there a Difference Between Wet and Dry Measurements?
The short answer is yes! A dry measuring cup should be used for ingredients like flour, sugar, oats and other granular items. This type of cup typically has a handle with a pouring spout and is generally much more accurate than using tablespoons. On the other hand, wet measuring cups are made to measure out liquids – like how many tablespoons in a cup of water –and typically come with built-in measurements on the side.
How to Measure with Tablespoons and Cups?
With all of the different measurements, it can be difficult to keep track of how many tablespoons are in a cup. But with our handy guide, you’ll never have to worry again! Simply remember that one cup is equal to 16 tablespoons, and if you need to convert between dry and wet ingredients, make sure to use the right measuring cup.

How to measure without measuring spoons
The measuring spoon is an indispensable tool for cooking and baking, but how do you measure ingredients if you don’t have any? Fortunately, there are some simple tricks to make sure that your food turns out perfect every time. For example, a quarter teaspoon of ground pepper is equal to one pinch; a tablespoon equals three teaspoons; and two tablespoons are equal to one ounce. So if you’re ever in a pinch and don’t have any measuring spoons around, just use these handy tricks.
Converting tablespoons to cups and vice versa
Whether you’re cooking a complex recipe or just need to measure out how many tablespoons in a cup, this guide is here to help. Remember that one cup equals 16 tablespoons, so if your recipe calls for cups and you only have teaspoons you’ll know how many teaspoons equal a tablespoon (3 tsp = 1 tbsp). You can also use our guide to easily convert between wet and dry ingredients, and measure without measuring spoons if you find yourself in a pinch. And now that you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to get cooking.
Some common recipes that use tablespoons and cups
Tablespoons and cups are essential measurements for many recipes. Here are some common dishes that require precise measurements of both:
-Baking – Cakes, muffins, cookies, brownies and other baked goods all use tablespoons and cups to measure out ingredients like flour, sugar, butter and more.
-Soups – Soups and stews often call for precise measurements of cups, tablespoons or teaspoons to get the perfect consistency.
-Sauces – Sauces and dressings are a great way to add flavor to your meals, but how many tablespoons in a cup? The answer is 16, so make sure you’re measuring correctly.
-Pies – Pies are a classic dessert that require accurate measurements of both cups and tablespoons to get the perfect balance of ingredients.
Now that you know how many tablespoons in a cup, it’s time to get cooking.
Tips on Measuring Tablespoons, Teaspoons, and Cups
– Always make sure to use the right measuring cup for your ingredients – dry for granular items like flour and sugar, and wet for liquids.
– If you don’t have any measuring spoons or cups, use our handy guide to measure without them.
– Keep in mind that one cup is equal to 16 tablespoons, so you can easily convert between cups and tablespoons.
– Be precise when measuring, as small discrepancies can drastically change how a recipe turns out.
Now that you know how many tablespoons in a cup, it’s time to start making delicious dishes.
Conclusion: how many tablespoons in a cup
Accurate measurements are key when it comes to cooking or baking. Knowing how many tablespoons in a cup is essential for getting the right ratio of ingredients, and if you don’t have measuring spoons or cups you can use our guide to measure without them. With this information handy, you’ll be able to whip up delicious dishes in no time.
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FAQs: tablespoons in a cup
How many tablespoons does it take to fill 1 measured cup?
Not sure how many tablespoons fit in a cup? Don’t fret! Here’s an easy conversion guide to help you out. One cup is equal to 16 generous spoonfuls, which can also be broken down into 4 friendly quarter-cup portions – perfect for any recipe or portion size. Check the table below and convert away with ease.
Does 2 tablespoons equal 1 cup?
No, two tablespoons do not equal one cup. One cup is equivalent to 16 tablespoons. Two tablespoons are equivalent to 1 ounce or 28.3 grams. So if you’re looking for how many tablespoons in a cup, remember that the answer is 16.
Does 1 tbsp equal 1/8 of a cup?
A fraction of a cup packs punched with two tablespoons or one fluid ounce—it’s the perfect little measure for all your baking needs.
How many dry tablespoons in a cup?
One cup of liquid is equivalent to sixteen tablespoons, so when you need a quarter cup – or four tablespoons – just remember it’s the same as one-sixteenth your many cups.
Does 5 tablespoons equal 1 4 cup?
A quarter cup is a perfect measurement to easily create an exact recipe. It contains 4 tablespoons, making it easy for chefs and bakers alike to craft delicious treats with precision.
How do I measure a tablespoon of a cup?
Get precise measurements with ease! For a tablespoon, just use half of an eighth measuring cup to achieve the perfect scoop.
How many tablespoons of liquid are in a cup?
One cup of liquid is equivalent to sixteen tablespoons. This measurement is ideal for when you’re looking for how many tablespoons in a cup, as it’s the perfect little measure for all your baking needs.
How many tablespoons of sauce in a cup?
Trying to measure the right amount of ingredients? You might want to remember that 16 tablespoons is equal to one cup.
Is 7 tablespoons half a cup?
If a recipe calls for half a cup, it requires 8 tablespoons of ingredients – that’s potentially enough to make something spectacular.
How many tablespoons is 2 dry cups?
Two dry cups is equivalent to 32 tablespoons. This can also be broken down into 8 friendly quarter-cup portions – perfect for any recipe or portion size. Check the table below and convert away with ease.
How many tablespoons are in a cup of coffee?
A cup of coffee may seem like an ordinary measure, but did you know this classic definition once defined a single “cup” as 5 ounces? To get the more traditional 8-ounce serving we’re familiar with today requires far more than just one scoop or tablespoon; in fact, it takes between 12 and 18 tablespoons.

Joe Redburn is the founder of two iconic Salt Lake City gay bars, Club 90 and Trax. He was also responsible for bringing the beer to what became the first Utah Pride celebration. Joe has been a fixture in Utah’s LGBTQ community for over four decades, and his bars have been central gathering places for generations of queer people.