Utensils & kitchen tools · Measuring tool
Measuring spoons
A set of spoons in standard sizes for measuring small amounts of spices, raising agents and liquids.
Essential in most kitchens · No power needed
Photo: carol, via Wikimedia Commons (CC-BY-SA-3.0)
What it is
A set, usually on a ring, of spoons from a pinch or ⅛ teaspoon up to 1 tablespoon. Standard measures differ slightly by country (a tablespoon is 15 ml in most places but 20 ml in Australia). They are more accurate than everyday cutlery spoons.
What it’s for: Accurately measuring small quantities, especially where precision matters in baking.
How to use it
- Dip the spoon into the dry ingredient and overfill it.
- Level off with the straight edge of a knife.
- For liquids, fill to the brim while holding it level.
- Measure over a separate bowl, not the mixing bowl, to avoid spills.
Good to know
- Tasks
- measuring baking powder and soda, measuring salt and spices, measuring extracts and oils
- Materials
- stainless steel, plastic
- Care and cleaning
- Wash and dry; keep on their ring so the set stays together.
- Limitations
- Spice volumes vary with grind; weighing is more consistent for larger amounts.
If you don’t have one
- Kitchen scale — Precision scales measure grams of yeast or salt.
Equipment guide
How it works: Each spoon holds a standard volume when levelled. Volumes differ between countries, so check which system a recipe uses.
| Material | Good | Watch out |
|---|---|---|
| Stainless steel | Durable, non-reactive, dishwasher-safe, does not hold smells. | Can scratch non-stick pans; conducts heat, so all-metal handles get hot. |
| Food-grade plastic (polypropylene, nylon) | Light, cheap, gentle on non-stick surfaces. | Melts or warps on contact with hot pans; scratches harbour residue; can stain and hold smells. |
- Metric set (15 ml tablespoon, 5 ml teaspoon)
- UK, Europe and most recipes outside the US and Australia.
- US set (about 14.8 ml tablespoon, 4.9 ml teaspoon)
- Close to metric for most cooking.
- Australian tablespoon (20 ml)
- Matters in baking.
- Narrow spoons
- Fit into spice jars.
Buying guidance
Starting out: A stainless set including ¼, ½ and 1 teaspoon and 1 tablespoon.
- Volume engraved, not printed
- Narrow enough for spice jars
- Includes ⅛ teaspoon for salt and potent spices
No brands or prices — check current reviews before buying.
Techniques:BakingSpherificationMise en placePlating
Related tools
Recipes that use it
No recipe in the catalogue lists it yet.