Buying guide for best measuring cup sets
Whether you’re baking a cake or whipping up a family dinner, most U.S. recipes measure ingredients in cups. Therefore, every kitchen needs a measuring cup set. And since you may be using it daily, finding a high-quality set is worth it. To the untrained eye, all measuring cup sets may look the same. In fact, the quality and price range is wide. With so many options available, how do you find the right set for your kitchen?
If you’re ready to purchase a measuring cup set, check out our favorites. If you want to know more about choosing the best set for you, read our shopping guide.
What comes in a measuring cup set?
Basic measuring cup sets contain four individual measuring cups: 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/2 cup, and 1 cup. Larger sets may also contain 1/16 cup, 1/8 cup, 2/3 cup, and 3/4 cup.
Many measuring cup sets include measuring spoons. The basic measuring spoons are 1/4 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, and 1 tablespoon.
Some sets may contain more, including 1/16 teaspoon, 1/8 teaspoon, 3/4 teaspoon, and 1/2 tablespoon.
"The way you fill a measuring cup can make a big difference. If you scoop flour from the bag, it will be more tightly packed than if you pour it into the cup and will therefore have a larger volume. Some recipes specify whether you should pour or scoop."
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What to look for when buying a measuring cup set
Storage
Most measuring cup sets have a nesting design — the smaller cups stack inside the larger ones.
Some silicone models fold down, which further saves space, but splits can develop over time in the creases.
Did you know?
If your measuring cups come on a ring, measuring will be easier if you remove them. You can always replace the ring for storage if you’re worried about keeping them together.
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Material
Usually, measuring cup sets are made from either plastic or stainless steel.
In general, stainless steel is preferable as it’s stronger and more durable than plastic. Stainless steel doesn’t become tainted with the scents and flavors of strong ingredients either.
Silicone measuring cups are another option, but they’re not the most durable choice.
You can find ceramic measuring cup sets, too. Though attractive, they aren’t the most practical option. They’re fragile and likely to break if dropped.
For your safety
If you opt for a plastic measuring cup set, look for one that’s BPA-free.
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Handles
Ideally, measuring cups should have sturdy handles, so they don’t bend when you scoop out ingredients.
Long handles make it easier to scoop an ingredient from the bottom of a bag, but they can be more likely to bend.
Find a measuring cup set with a happy medium between length and strength.
Expert Tip
Brown sugar should be packed into a measuring cup. Otherwise, ingredients shouldn’t be packed unless the recipe instructs it.
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Measurement markings
Some measuring cups have additional measurement markings on the side, so you can use a bigger cup to measure smaller amounts of ingredients. For instance, a 1-cup measuring cup might have 1/4 cup, 1/2 cup, and 3/4 cup measurements marked on it.
This is convenient, since it means you only need to use one cup to measure different volumes of different ingredients.
However, this method is likely to be less precise than using the appropriate measuring cups, so it’s best to avoid using one cup for recipes that must be exact.
"Look for cups where the measurements are embossed or engraved into the handles, rather than stamped on in ink. The stamps will rub off with regular use, and then it will be harder to tell your 1 cup from your 3/4 cup."
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Design
Measuring cup sets are functional items and most have a standard design.
That said, you can find measuring cup sets with novelty or themed designs, like cups designed to look like cats or a stackable beehive.
Measuring cup sets with more intricate designs are usually made from ceramic.
Expert Tip
While you can find square measuring cup sets, we recommend using round sets. With square cups, ingredients don’t work all the way into the corners, making your measurements less accurate.
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How much do measuring cup sets cost?
While measuring cup sets shouldn’t break the bank, it’s worth investing in a durable high-end set if you often cook from recipes.
Inexpensive
A basic measuring cup set costs $5 to $10.
These can be plastic or metal, but metal sets in this price range tend to be flimsy. Inexpensive sets usually contain four measuring cups and no measuring spoons.
"When measuring a sticky ingredient, such as syrup, grease your cup first so the ingredient will easily slide out."
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Mid-range
A mid-range measuring cup set costs $10 to $20.
In this price range, sets come with both measuring cups and measuring spoons.
Expensive
A high-end measuring cup set costs $20 to $50.
At the top end of this price range are ceramic sets with novelty designs, which may be attractive but aren’t necessarily practical. At the low end of this price range are high-quality stainless steel sets that will stand up to years of daily use.
Expert Tip
If your measuring cup set has measurements stamped in ink, gently wash by hand rather than in a dishwasher, so they don’t rub off as quickly.
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Tips for using a measuring cup set
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Cups are standardized measurements, so you can’t use any old mug or cup from your cupboard. You need a proper set of measuring cups to get consistent results.
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If you pour or scoop out too much of an ingredient, leaving you with a heaped measuring cup, level off the excess with a knife.
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When measuring flour, you usually don’t have to sift it unless the recipe explicitly calls for sifting before measuring. Modern flour doesn’t tend to be lumpy, so it only needs a quick stir before adding other dry ingredients.
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When measuring brown sugar, pack it into the cup. This is the standard way to measure brown sugar.
FAQ
Q. Do I need wet and dry measuring cups?
A. Standard measuring cups — such as the ones featured here — are designed for measuring dry ingredients. Liquids have different volume measurements, so there are measuring cups specifically for liquids. That said, unless you’re baking or making a recipe that has to be extremely precise, you can usually get away with using dry measuring cups to measure liquids.
Q. Are measuring cups dishwasher-safe?
A. The majority of standard stainless steel and plastic measuring cups are dishwasher-safe, but this can vary, so check the manufacturer's specifications.
Q. What is 1 cup in fluid ounces or pints?
A. In case you need to do conversions from other volume measurements into cups, it’s useful to know that 1 cup equals 8 fluid ounces or half a pint.
