Measuring Cups

Use an individual measuring cup for flour so that you can level off the top with the back of a knife for a precise measure. Use a separate scoop to measure out the flour as using the cup to scoop out the flour will pack the flour down in the cup, giving you way more flour than you actually need. Semi-liquid ingredients like sour cream or yogurt can be measured in a similar manner just make certain that the product is filling up all the space in the cup, including the rounded corners. Once packed into the cup, use the back of a knife to level off the top.

Wrapped butter typically already has marking on it showing measurements, but if you are using butter from a tub or shortening from a canister, it is important to make sure that the ingredients are occupying all of the space in the cup. Butter and shortening can be stubborn when it comes to getting into all the cracks. To prevent these greasy ingredients from sticking to your cup, use a layer of non-stick spray on the inside of the cup. The shortening or butter should slide right out.