cups to tablespoons
The core relationship is simple: 1 cup = 16 tablespoons. To convert cups to tablespoons, use tablespoons = cups × 16. Below you’ll find quick charts, a real example, and common mistakes—plus a one-click link back to the instant converter.
Open the Tablespoons ↔ Cups CalculatorQuick Answer: tablespoons = cups × 16. For example, 0.5 cup × 16 = 8 tablespoons.
Updated for 2025 · U.S. standard measures.
Common Cup → Tbsp Conversions (at a glance)
Cups to Tablespoons
| Cups | Tablespoons (Tbsp) |
|---|---|
| 1/8 cup | 2 Tbsp |
| 1/4 cup | 4 Tbsp |
| 1/3 cup | 5 Tbsp + 1 tsp |
| 1/2 cup | 8 Tbsp |
| 2/3 cup | 10 Tbsp + 2 tsp |
| 3/4 cup | 12 Tbsp |
| 1 cup | 16 Tbsp |
| 1 1/2 cups | 24 Tbsp |
| 2 cups | 32 Tbsp |
Takeaway: Multiply cups by 16 to get tablespoons—every time.
Related Shortcuts
- 1 Tbsp = 3 tsp
- 1 cup = 8 fl oz = 16 Tbsp
- 1/2 cup = 8 Tbsp
- 3/4 cup = 12 Tbsp
Real-World Example: Pancake Syrup
Your recipe needs 3/4 cup of syrup, but you’re measuring with spoons. Convert: 0.75 × 16 = 12 tablespoons. Measure 12 level Tbsp—no sticky measuring cup required.
Summary: 3/4 cup = 12 Tbsp. The formula keeps things neat and exact.
Common Mistakes (and easy fixes)
Rounding early on thirds
1/3 cup is 5 Tbsp + 1 tsp (≈ 5.33 Tbsp). If you round to 5 Tbsp, you’ll under-measure.
Takeaway: Add the extra teaspoon on third-cup conversions.
Mixing measurement systems
U.S. tablespoon ≈ 14.79 mL; metric tablespoon = 15 mL; Australian tablespoon = 20 mL. The 16-per-cup rule holds inside each system, but volumes per spoon differ.
Takeaway: Stick to one system or switch to mL for precision.
Heaping vs. level spoons
Heaping spoons aren’t standard. Always measure level tablespoons—especially in baking.
Takeaway: Level spoons = repeatable texture and flavor.
10-Second Method: cups to tablespoons
- Remember: 1 cup = 16 Tbsp.
- Use the formula: Tbsp = cups × 16.
- Know the anchors: 1/4 cup = 4 Tbsp, 1/2 cup = 8 Tbsp, 3/4 cup = 12 Tbsp.
- For tricky amounts, use the Tablespoons ↔ Cups Calculator.
Summary: Multiply by 16—fast mental math in the kitchen.
Keep Converting
FAQ: cups to tablespoons
How many tablespoons are in 1 cup?
16 tablespoons. That’s the U.S. standard in 2025.
How many tablespoons are in 1/2 cup?
8 tablespoons. It’s half of 16.
How many tablespoons are in 2/3 cup?
10 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons (≈ 10.67 Tbsp). Third-based cups need a teaspoon add-on.