Measuring 2/3 Cup: Tips and Techniques for Accurate Results

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 21 June 2023 5 min read

Measuring ingredients accurately is an important skill in cooking and baking, and ensuring you have the right amount of an ingredient can make all the difference in the taste and texture of your final dish. One common measurement that can sometimes cause confusion is 2/3 cup. In this blog, we'll discuss various methods and techniques to help you measure 2/3 cup accurately and confidently.

Using Standard Measuring Cups

Most kitchens have a set of standard measuring cups that are perfect for measuring both dry and liquid ingredients. Here, we'll guide you through the process of using these cups to measure 2/3 cup of different ingredients, and ensure you're using the right technique for the best results.

Selecting the Right Measuring Cup

First, let's talk about selecting the right measuring cup for measuring 2/3 cup:

Look for a measuring cup specifically marked with a 2/3 cup measurement.
If your set doesn't include a 2/3 cup, you can use a combination of other measuring cups: 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons, or 1/3 cup + 1/3 cup.
Use separate measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients.

Measuring Dry Ingredients

When measuring dry ingredients like flour, sugar, or cocoa powder, follow these steps to get an accurate 2/3 cup measurement:

Lightly spoon the ingredient into the measuring cup, making sure not to pack it down.
Fill the cup slightly above the rim.
Use a straight-edged utensil like a knife or spatula to level off the excess, ensuring a precise measurement.

Measuring Liquid Ingredients

Measuring 2/3 cup of liquid ingredients like milk, water, or oil is slightly different than measuring dry ingredients:

Place the measuring cup on a level surface.
Pour the liquid into the cup until it reaches the 2/3 cup mark or the appropriate combination of other measurements.
Check the measurement at eye level to ensure accuracy.

By following these steps, you'll be able to measure 2/3 cup of both dry and liquid ingredients accurately using standard measuring cups.

Alternative Measuring Techniques

If you don't have a set of standard measuring cups or prefer a different approach, there are alternative measuring techniques to help you measure 2/3 cup with precision. Let's explore two popular alternatives: graduated cylinders and digital kitchen scales.

Using a Graduated Cylinder

Graduated cylinders are often used in laboratories but can also come in handy in the kitchen. They offer a high level of accuracy for measuring liquid ingredients. To measure 2/3 cup of a liquid using a graduated cylinder:

Place the graduated cylinder on a level surface.
Pour the liquid into the cylinder until it reaches the 158 ml mark (2/3 cup is approximately 158 ml).
Ensure your eyes are level with the markings on the cylinder for accurate measurement.

Using a Digital Kitchen Scale

Digital kitchen scales are another useful tool for measuring ingredients, especially when you need a high level of precision. To measure 2/3 cup using a digital kitchen scale, follow these steps:

Place a bowl or container on the scale and zero out the weight (tare function).
For dry ingredients, 2/3 cup is equal to approximately 85 grams (flour), 134 grams (sugar), or 75 grams (cocoa powder). For liquid ingredients, 2/3 cup is roughly 158 grams.
Pour or spoon the ingredient into the container until the scale displays the appropriate weight for 2/3 cup of the ingredient.

Both graduated cylinders and digital kitchen scales offer alternative ways to measure 2/3 cup accurately, giving you options to choose the method that works best for you.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When measuring 2/3 cup, it's important to be as accurate as possible to achieve the desired results in your recipe. Let's discuss some common mistakes to avoid and how to prevent them.

Overfilling Measuring Cups

Filling the measuring cup beyond its capacity can lead to inaccurate measurements. To avoid overfilling:

Scoop or pour the ingredient into the cup, leaving a little space at the top.
Level off the excess with a straight-edged utensil, such as a knife or a spatula.
Ensure the cup is not overflowing and contains exactly 2/3 cup.

Not Leveling Off Dry Ingredients

Not leveling off dry ingredients can also lead to inaccurate measurements. To ensure consistent results:

Fill the measuring cup slightly above the 2/3 cup mark.
Use a straight-edged utensil to level off the top, removing any excess.
Double-check the measurement to ensure it's exactly 2/3 cup.

Measuring on an Uneven Surface

Measuring on an uneven surface can cause inaccuracies, particularly when using liquid measuring cups. To prevent this issue:

Place the measuring cup on a flat, level surface.
Check the liquid level from the side, ensuring your eyes are level with the markings on the cup.
Adjust the liquid as needed to achieve an accurate 2/3 cup measurement.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help ensure your 2/3 cup measurements are accurate, leading to better results in your cooking and baking endeavors.

Tips for Precision in Measuring

Now that we've covered some common mistakes to avoid, let's discuss some tips and techniques that can help you achieve precise measurements, especially when measuring 2/3 cup.

Prepping Ingredients

Properly preparing your ingredients can make a significant difference in the accuracy of your measurements. Here are some tips to help:

For dry ingredients, such as flour or sugar, lightly fluff the ingredient with a fork or spoon before measuring to prevent compaction.
For sticky ingredients, like honey or peanut butter, lightly coat the measuring cup with non-stick spray or oil to allow for easy release.
For solid ingredients, such as butter or shortening, press the ingredient firmly into the measuring cup to eliminate air pockets.

Using OXO Good Grips Measuring Cups

Investing in high-quality measuring cups can help improve the accuracy of your measurements. OXO Good Grips measuring cups are a popular choice because they offer:

Clear, easy-to-read markings for precise measurements.
Non-slip handles for a secure grip.
Nesting design for easy storage.

These features can make measuring 2/3 cup easier and more accurate, ultimately resulting in better recipes.

Cleaning and Storing Measuring Tools

Properly cleaning and storing your measuring tools can also impact the accuracy of your measurements. Follow these tips to keep your tools in tip-top shape:

Hand-wash measuring cups and spoons, as the dishwasher may cause the markings to fade over time.
Allow the tools to air-dry completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
Store measuring tools in a cool, dry place to protect them from damage.

By implementing these tips and techniques, you can improve the accuracy of your 2/3 cup measurements and take your cooking and baking skills to the next level.