About MetriCup
Accurate volume-to-weight conversions for baking and cooking
What is MetriCup?
MetriCup is a free tool that helps you convert between volume measurements (like cups and tablespoons) and weight measurements (like grams and ounces) for common baking and cooking ingredients.
Unlike simple converters that use a fixed ratio, we account for the fact that different ingredients have different densities. A cup of flour weighs much less than a cup of sugar or honey, so accurate conversions require knowing each ingredient's specific density.
Why Cup Sizes Matter
Did you know that a "cup" means different things in different countries? This can lead to significant errors when following recipes from other regions.
| Cup Type | Volume | Region |
|---|---|---|
| US Cup | 236.6 ml | United States |
| Metric Cup | 250 ml | Australia, NZ, UK |
| Imperial Cup | 284.13 ml | UK (historical) |
| Japanese Cup | 200 ml | Japan |
A US cup (236.6ml) is about 5.7% smaller than a metric cup (250ml). This difference might seem small, but it adds up in recipes that call for multiple cups of an ingredient.
Our Data Sources
All ingredient densities in our database are sourced from the USDA FoodData Central database, which provides standardized nutrient and portion data for thousands of foods.
We periodically verify our density data against the USDA database to ensure accuracy. Each ingredient entry includes the USDA FDC ID so you can verify the source data yourself.
Note: Density values are based on the "spooned and leveled" measurement method. Scooping directly from a container compacts the ingredient and will yield different weights.
How We Calculate
Our conversions use a simple but accurate formula based on ingredient density, measured in grams per milliliter (g/ml):
mass (g) = volume (ml) × density (g/ml)
Example: To convert 1 US cup of all-purpose flour to grams:
- 1 US cup = 236.6 ml
- All-purpose flour density = 0.53 g/ml
- Mass = 236.6 × 0.53 = 125 grams
Privacy
MetriCup is a fully client-side application. All calculations happen in your browser - we don't send your data to any server.
- No tracking: We don't use cookies or analytics that track you
- No accounts: No sign-up or login required
- No data collection: Your ingredient searches stay in your browser
- No ads: No third-party advertising scripts
The only data stored locally is your dark mode preference, which uses your browser's localStorage and never leaves your device.
Data Accuracy Disclaimer
While we strive for accuracy using USDA-verified density data, measurement conversions are inherently approximate. Several factors can affect actual weights:
- Measurement method: Spooned and leveled vs. scooped directly
- Ingredient brand: Different brands may have slightly different densities
- Environmental factors: Humidity, temperature, and settling can affect weight
- Natural variation: Ingredients like produce can vary in density
Important: For critical baking applications where precision matters, we recommend using a kitchen scale and verifying measurements independently. Our conversions are estimates intended as a helpful starting point, not absolute values.