US Cup vs Metric Cup
Side-by-side comparison, when-to-use-each guide, and instant conversion. Reviewed for 2026.
US recipes (universal), Canadian recipes, older US cookbooks abroad.
Australia, New Zealand, parts of Latin America, official metric standard. The UK avoids cups entirely — UK recipes use weight (grams) instead.
| Aspect | US Cup | Metric Cup |
|---|---|---|
| Volume | 236.6 ml | 250 ml exactly |
| Tablespoons | 16 tbsp per cup | 15 tbsp (approx) |
| Used in | US, Canada | Australia, NZ, official metric |
| Baking impact | Smaller cup → less of everything | 5.6% more flour, sugar, liquid |
Frequently asked
Which cup should I use for online recipes?
Check where the recipe is from. American food blogs use US cups (236.6 ml). Australian sites use metric cups (250 ml). UK sites usually use weights, not cups. When in doubt, weigh ingredients in grams.
Why does the UK avoid cups?
UK home baking standardised on weight measurement in the 19th century — using metric scales now or imperial scales (oz) before that. Cups never caught on, and most UK kitchens have a digital scale instead.
Frequently asked questions
Which cup should I use for online recipes?
Check where the recipe is from. American food blogs use US cups (236.6 ml). Australian sites use metric cups (250 ml). UK sites usually use weights, not cups. When in doubt, weigh ingredients in grams.
Why does the UK avoid cups?
UK home baking standardised on weight measurement in the 19th century — using metric scales now or imperial scales (oz) before that. Cups never caught on, and most UK kitchens have a digital scale instead.