Measuring 2 ounces in tablespoons is a common cooking conversion that many home cooks need to make. When following recipes, you may be instructed to use 2 ounces of an ingredient, but only have measuring spoons handy. So how can you accurately measure out 2 fluid ounces using tablespoons? Here’s a quick rundown of the tablespoon-to-ounce conversion math and tips for measuring 2 ounces of liquid ingredients.
The Tablespoon to Ounce Conversion
First, it’s important to understand the basic conversion rate between tablespoons and ounces. One fluid ounce equals 2 tablespoons. This means:
- 1 tablespoon = 0.5 ounces
- 2 tablespoons = 1 ounce
- 4 tablespoons = 2 ounces
- 6 tablespoons = 3 ounces
- 8 tablespoons = 4 ounces
So to measure 2 fluid ounces, you will need 4 tablespoons. It’s an easy 1:2 ratio to remember.
Measuring Out 2 Ounces in 4 Tablespoons
When actually measuring out 2 ounces of a liquid, it’s best to use a measuring spoon set with clearly labeled tablespoon sizes. Measure it precisely for the most accuracy:
- Fill one tablespoon up to the brim with the liquid ingredient.
- Transfer the liquid to a liquid measuring cup.
- Repeat steps 1-2 three more times, for a total of 4 level tablespoons.
- Check that the measuring cup reads 2 fluid ounces. Adjust as needed by adding or removing small amounts until you reach exactly 2 ounces.
If you don’t have a measuring cup available, you can still eyeball it using 4 tablespoons:
- Estimate how high 2 ounces comes up on an empty tablespoon measuring spoon.
- Fill a tablespoon up to that point 4 times.
- Adjust as needed based on your best visual estimation.
This second eyeball method won’t be as precise, but can work in a pinch.
Tips for Measuring 2 Ounces of Liquids Accurately
Use these tips for reliably measuring 2 fluid ounces with tablespoons:
- Use measuring spoons, not regular cutlery spoons. The shape and capacity of cutlery spoons can vary greatly, reducing accuracy.
- Use level measurements. Dip or scoop into the liquid so it comes to the very top of the measuring spoon without heaping.
- Avoid guesstimating. Don’t just eyeball it and hope for the best. Actually measure out the 4 tablespoons for accuracy.
- Double check with a measuring cup. Whenever possible, transfer the tablespoons to a liquid measuring cup to verify the 2 ounce measurement.
- Work over a bowl or sink. In case of spills or overflow, have something ready to catch the excess liquid as you transfer between spoons and cup.
Useful Kitchen Conversions
In cooking and baking, there are many times you’ll need to make conversions between volume and weight measurements. Here are some of the most common conversions handy for any home cook:
Volume Conversions
- 3 teaspoons (tsp) = 1 tablespoon (tbsp)
- 2 tablespoons = 1 fluid ounce
- 1 cup = 8 fluid ounces
- 1 pint = 2 cups
- 1 quart = 2 pints
- 1 gallon = 4 quarts
Weight Conversions
- 1 ounce = 28 grams
- 8 ounces = 1 cup
- 1 pound = 16 ounces
Butter Conversions
- 1 stick butter = 8 tbsp = 4 oz = 1/2 cup
- 2 sticks butter = 16 tbsp = 8 oz = 1 cup
Converting Other Measurements to 2 Ounces
In addition to tablespoons, you may need to convert other units of measurement to 2 fluid ounces. Here are some examples:
Teaspoons to Ounces
- 1 tsp = 0.167 oz
- 12 tsp = 2 oz
To get 2 ounces, you would need 12 teaspoons.
Cups to Ounces
- 1 cup = 8 oz
- 1/4 cup = 2 oz
So a 1/4 cup of liquid equals 2 fluid ounces.
Grams to Ounces
- 1 oz = 28 g
- 2 oz = 56 g
If a recipe calls for 56 grams of a liquid, that equates to 2 ounces by weight.
Milliliters to Ounces
- 1 oz = 30 mL
- 2 oz = 60 mL
To measure out 2 fluid ounces, use 60 milliliters.
Common Uses for a 2 Ounce Measurement
Here are some ingredients that you may routinely need to measure in 2 ounce amounts:
- Liquors and spirits – Many cocktails call for 1-2 oz of liquor per drink.
- Vanilla extract – Recipes may use 1-2 oz of vanilla extract.
- Lemon juice – Lemon juice is often added in 1-2 oz increments.
- Vinegars – Vinaigrettes may require 2 oz of vinegar.
- Flavor extracts – You may need 2 oz of almond extract or mint extract.
- Broths – Deglazing a pan or thinning a sauce may require 1-2 oz of chicken or vegetable broth.
- Dairy – Some recipes call for small amounts of cream or milk, around 1-2 oz.
For these common ingredients, it’s handy to know how to quickly measure out 2 fluid ounces using measuring spoons.
Why Accuracy Matters
You might be wondering why you can’t just estimate a close enough 2 ounce measurement. Why take the effort to precisely measure conversions like tablespoons to ounces?
Accuracy matters because even small measurement errors can throw off recipe success. Think about baking, where being just a bit off in ingredient amounts can lead to a sunken souffle or dry cupcakes. For cocktails, improper liquor measurements could result in an overly boozy drink.
By learning proper technique for measuring conversions, you’ll get reliably consistent, accurate results every time. Your recipes will turn out perfectly balanced and delicious.
How Measuring Spoons Work
To understand tablespoon-to-ounce conversions, it helps to first understand how measuring spoons work. Measuring spoons are specially designed to provide precise measurements for both liquid and dry ingredients.
Common Sizes
Measuring spoon sets include:
- 1/4 teaspoon
- 1/2 teaspoon
- 1 teaspoon
- 1/2 tablespoon
- 1 tablespoon
Some also include 2 tablespoons and 1/4 cup sizes for larger measurements.
Standard Capacities
These standard capacities are used for measuring spoon sets:
- 1/4 tsp = 0.6 mL
- 1/2 tsp = 1.2 mL
- 1 tsp = 5 mL
- 1/2 Tbsp = 7.5 mL
- 1 Tbsp = 15 mL
So a tablespoon measuring spoon holds exactly 15 mL, which equals 0.5 fluid ounces by volume.
Design Features
Measuring spoons have design features to allow accurate liquid and dry measurements, including:
- Consistent sizes – Each spoon holds the standard capacity.
- Double-sided bowls – One round side for dry ingredients, one oval side for liquids.
- Leveled top edges – Allows you to level off excess ingredients by sweeping across the top.
- Handle grips – Often have soft grips for comfort and easy handling.
- Durable stainless steel – Won’t bend or wear down over time.
Why Proper Technique is Crucial
A set of well-designed measuring spoons is only half the story. You also need to use proper technique to end up with truly accurate measurements, like when converting tablespoons to ounces. Here are some key techniques to follow:
- Use the right spoon sizes – Don’t substitute a teaspoon for a tablespoon.
- Level off dry ingredients – Remove excess heaped ingredients for accuracy.
- Measure liquids at eye level – Fill spoon up while holding it at eye level to see the liquid line.
- Avoid overfilling – Don’t let liquids spill over the top of the spoon.
- Work over a bowl – Catch any spills neatly.
- Double check conversions – Verify tablespoon measurements in a measuring cup.
With the right tools and proper technique, you can become a measuring pro and accurately convert any measurement in the kitchen!
Conclusion
Understanding how to convert 2 fluid ounces to tablespoons is an essential kitchen skill. Now that you know that 2 ounces equals 4 tablespoons or 12 teaspoons, you can easily measure out this handy serving size of liquids. For accuracy, be sure to precisely measure out tablespoons and double check the measurement. With this tablespoon-to-ounce conversion memorized, you can seamlessly make this measurement conversion whenever a recipe calls for 2 ounces of any liquid ingredient.
