Liquid measuring cups are used to measure the volume of liquid ingredients. They typically come in the standard sizes of 8 oz, 16 oz, or 24 oz, have clear lines marking each volume measurement, and have a sturdy handle for easy handling. They're made out of microwave-safe plastic or glass with a spout for pouring. While it is possible to use a liquid measuring cup to measure dry ingredients, dry ingredients should be leveled off with a straight edge while liquids are measured at eye level. That's why measuring cups for dry ingredients have straight edges with no spout. If you're in the market for a measuring cup, our list of the best liquid measuring cups will help you find the best one for your kitchen. The Pyrex Glass Measuring Cup Set is our favorite because of its classic cup design, size variation, sturdiness, and durability.
Some kitchen staples can ease your life, and liquid measuring cups are one of them. Take your cooking skills up a notch with accurate results every single time. Even if you have a measuring cup, it’s probably time for an upgrade. Our buying guide lays out some key information about measuring cups and features you should consider, so keep reading to learn more!
Why You Need a Liquid Measuring Cup in Your Life
It's funny how most people don’t even bother getting a liquid measuring cup and depend on the ones designed for dry ingredients. No judgment there, but investing in a liquid cup is an affordable deal and definitely worthwhile. Compared to
dry measuring cups, ones designed specifically for liquids are easier to use for pouring liquids and accurately measuring without any trouble.
You will also notice that it is easier to transfer liquids to the cooking pot from the liquid measuring cup without spilling. Experts also believe that using a dry measuring cup for liquids may not be as accurate and can spoil the recipe due to the difference.
The variety available will allow you to measure from a cup to four pints of liquids. A measuring cup will come in handy, whether you’re measuring water, oil, or a mixture of ingredients for pancakes or cake.
Bonus tip: It is recommended to keep a few different sizes and varieties of liquid measuring cups in hand for added convenience.
Factors to Determine the Most Accurate Liquid Measuring Cups
The right liquid measuring cups make measuring the ingredients for cooking and baking a breeze. But you will find varying qualities that make some measuring cups better than others.
To help you with your evaluation, we’ve listed the top factors to be taken into consideration before making a purchase.
Design
While it is a critical feature of a liquid measuring cup, it depends more on personal preference. You may pick out a classic design with a solid spout and a handle, or you may be more attracted to the newfangled beaker style. If you wish to store it in a limited space, a taller design without the handle would be more suitable for you.
Similarly, you can look for special features like unusual volume markings or a more precise spout. Consider these design factors before buying one.
Measurement marking
Since the product is all about measuring, the marking should be clear enough and easy to read. If you’re not able to read it, there’s no point in using it as a liquid measuring cup. Also, make sure there are basic markings for easy reading, such as ⅓-cup, ¼-cup, ½-cup, and 1-cup.
Material
This is another crucial aspect as the material will determine the kind of ingredients you can use in the cup for measuring. For instance, if you need a liquid measuring cup for hot chocolate or melted butter for the recipes, look for heat-resistant measuring cups. Most glass and plastic cups are heat resistant, but it also depends on the quality you're buying.
Size
There are varying sizes available today to suit different needs. Pick the one that perfectly matches your requirement. If you’re unsure, it’s best to invest in a set with 2-3 measuring cups of different sizes.
Price
A liquid measuring cup is often a pocket-friendly deal. However, you will always find pricier options in the market. The good news is that you can still find an excellent liquid measuring cup or a set if you’re on a budget. The key is to compare your options and always take the overall quality of the product into account before making this useful investment.
The Best Way To Use a Liquid Measuring Cup
A liquid measuring cup is ideal for any ingredient that levels itself. It can be a liquidy-liquid like water, milk, or oil, or a thicker liquid, like honey, molasses, or a pancake mixture. Using a measuring cup is as straightforward as it gets. All you need to do is check the measurement reading on the cup and use the ingredients per the recipe. Here are the top tips for using your liquid measuring cups perfectly:
- For accurate measuring, get down to the level of the measuring cup or hold it at your eye level as you pour the liquid inside of the cup. Stop at how much you need, and you’re done.
- For sticky liquid ingredients like honey, corn syrup, or molasses, the trick is to coat the insides of your liquid measuring cup with cooking oil – just spray lightly. Then pour in the ingredient and check for the measurement. The idea is to minimize wasting the ingredient which sticks in the cup as the oil will easily let most of it out.
- You can also use a large liquid measuring cup to mix in dry ingredients. Once you’ve measured both dry and liquid ingredients separately, feel free to mix it all together in the liquid measuring cup for ease of use.
