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How to Measure Flour and an OXO Giveaway!

August 2, 2013 by Audra 178 Comments

flour6

I learned how to measure flour back in 7th grade home ec. class. It was pretty simple really- scoop the flour with your measuring cup, (see above)  and level with the back of a butter knife (see below.) I took that lesson with me throughout most of my young baking years- not knowing there was a “right” way to do it.

flour5

When you weigh a cup of “scooped and leveled” flour, you can expect for it to weigh about 5 oz. In terms of weight, a standard cup of flour should weigh around 4.25 oz, so that’s really quite a big difference! Think of all the times you maybe wondered why your baked goods were a little too dry or tough..I bet the blame lies with the darn flour!

flour4

The “correct” weigh to measure is simple as can be. First- you want to start with light airy flour. You can get this by taking a scoop or small measuring cup and fluffing your flour for a minute or so.

flour3

Then, gently sprinkle the flour into your desired measuring cup. Don’t wiggle or shake your cup- you don’t want the flour to settle down, but rather stay light and fluffy. Keep sprinkling until you reach the top and then gently level the flour.

flour2

Look at that! 4.25 oz! Big difference huh? (At Blog & Bake they told us a properly measured cup of flour should weigh between 4-4.25 oz.)

flour

Now it’s important to point out that even the “wrong” way of measuring flour is right if you develop your own recipes and are consistent with how you measure flour. Everyone is different, but I would say that 4.25 oz is a general norm and unless a cookbook specifies a heavier cup of flour, I’d stick with that.

These days, I usually don’t even bother measuring my flour and just weigh it. That way I can dump it in directly from the canister and I get to save myself another dish to hand wash! (yay!)

No kitchen scale?? Well- you’re in luck! OXO has so sweetly agreed to give a reader a sparkly new 11 lb. food scale! It just so happens I bought this same scale months ago and really love it. It’s easy to use and even has a pull-out display area in case you are using a large bowl.

In addition to the scale, OXO is throwing in a few of my favorite baking accessories!

– A handy dandy cherry pitter

– A scraper/chopper (which I swear by)

– A 2-cup adjustable measuring cup

Visit the widget below to enter!! :) Have a great weekend!

OXO Scale and Baking Tools Giveaway!

This giveaway is sponsored by OXO, but the opinions are 100% my own! (And yes I did already own and love this scale!)

Filed Under: How-To

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Comments

  1. Christine says

    August 2, 2013 at 7:25 am

    Wow I heard there was a difference but didn’t think it was that much.

    Reply
  2. Deauna says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:11 am

    I swear by my scale! It makes cooking and baking so much easier and faster.

    Reply
  3. Meg says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:14 am

    How interesting! Though I love to bake, I don’t have a food scale — and have never really thought about the differences between the methods of scooping flour. I’ve definitely had foods not bake the way I planned, though . . . must keep this in mind. Thanks, and thanks for hosting the giveaway! :)

    Reply
  4. Angela says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:17 am

    Learned this while I was working at Sur La Table and involved in the cooking classes offered there. Sure makes a lot of sense and I’ve never looked back since I started weighing most of my ingredients!

    Reply
  5. KL says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:17 am

    I use a measuring cup

    Reply
  6. Leila says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:19 am

    I always use scales! so much more exact! Thanks for the giveway :)

    Reply
  7. jc says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:20 am

    With a cup, but once I win the scale, I’m going to start doing it the right way! Thank you!

    Reply
  8. Kathy Day says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:21 am

    I love my little scale – but I’ve had my eye on the OXO one for about a year. And a cherry pitter would be a straight up godsend. I made cherry jam last week – using a paring knife and my fingers. #notfun

    Reply
    • Emily Wells says

      August 2, 2013 at 9:26 am

      Drinking straw!! Best (and easiest) cherry pitter ever (save for an actual cherry pitter, that is!) Just pop the straw down through the cherry at the stem opening, and the pits fall right out.

      Reply
  9. Deborah Montagna says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:23 am

    I usually do it what I know know is the old and wrong way! I guess I need a scale, huh? LOL. Thanks for the tip!

    Reply
  10. Beth says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:23 am

    Great tip! I often prefer to pour flour into a measuring cup rather than scoop because I know that yields a lighter total amount. Weighing it would be a great way to ensure consistent results, though!

    Reply
  11. Emily Wells says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:24 am

    Depends on the recipe I’m using. If it calls to be weighed, I definitely weigh it! If not, I stir my flour around in the canister to loosen it up, then spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off.

    Reply
  12. SandyN says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:24 am

    I normally just use a measuring cup.

    Reply
  13. Beth Gallagher says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:24 am

    Well, this is illuminating!!! Now I know why my baked goods are tough at times! I’ve been fluffing before measuring, but I don’t think enough. Wow, would l love to win! Thanks for another fabulous post and giveaway!

    Reply
  14. kerri says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:25 am

    Wow that makes a huge difference!

    Reply
  15. Lori Connors says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:28 am

    I go either way with my measuring….just depends on what I am making. If it is a yeast dough, then I always weigh/measure.

    Reply
  16. Sue says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:31 am

    I’ve been fluffing and leveling ever since you told me about this. Nice work

    Reply
  17. Susan P says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:32 am

    I light fluff the flour in the canister and then spoon it into the measuring cup. I have always wanted a scale, however, it’s never been in the budget. Keeping my fingers crossed. Thanks for the info and giveaway!

    Reply
  18. Ann Marie says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:32 am

    I fill the measuring cup using a large spoon, a little at a time. I guess it’s similar to sprinkling it into the measuring cup.

    Reply
  19. Kara D says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:35 am

    If the recipe uses grams or ounces, then I use a food scale. Otherwise I dip the entire measuring cup into my flour container and level it off with a knife.

    Reply
  20. Char Pollard says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:37 am

    I use a measuring cup. I love to bake but never knew there was a difference. I don’t even have a scale. Guess I need one now!

    Reply
  21. April Ruppe says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:37 am

    I usually just use a measuring cup! I actually had no idea that the weight of the flour was so important, this was an interesting read, thank you!

    Reply
  22. Elizabeth W says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:37 am

    I’ve always just done it the “old” way, but measuring by weight makes so much sense!

    Reply
  23. Marion Hewitt says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:39 am

    I now use the fluff and shake method after it dawned on me that my flour was compacted in the air tight storage container. I have never thought about purchasing a scale for weighing ingredients. A scale sure would be a time saver. Thanks for the tip and thanks to XOX for the giveaway products.

    Reply
  24. Anna says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:40 am

    Ah, im the same. I love measuring cups, but with new recipes it is a good idea to weigh, so that you are getting the recipe right (and the correct result!). A bit more/less of an ingredient can make a big difference!

    Reply
  25. Elyse says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:40 am

    I use a tablespoon to gently fill the measuring cup before leveling with a knife. My mama taught me well, I guess!

    Reply
  26. Robin B. says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:41 am

    I, too, learned as an adult that the scoop method is not the right way. I would love a scale! I keep thinking I should get one.

    Reply
  27. Denise H. says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:41 am

    I’ve always scooped and leveled. Never knew there was another way. Thanks for the heads up!

    Reply
  28. Julie says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:44 am

    Plenty of times I scoop and level and even sometimes even wiggle the measuring cup. But I think I was taught to spoon the flour into the measure cup and then level — NO wiggling the cup.

    Reply
  29. Amy B. says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:47 am

    I measure flour using the sprinkle into a measuring cup method. Seems to work pretty well.

    Reply
  30. Nancie says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:49 am

    I’ve always done the scoop & level method (but then I’m bad and rarely bake from scratch) :(

    Reply
  31. Bridget says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:49 am

    My scale recently met an ill fate (my husband dropped a mug onto the glass scale plate. *sigh*) :-(
    I miss it desperately. :-/
    Not only does measuring ingredients by weight distinctly help baking, but it is also crucial to my weight loss and maintenance. I see huge discrepancies between volume and weight amounts, and I was unknowingly eating hundreds of extra calories a week when only using a measuring cup!

    Reply
  32. Kira j says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:54 am

    I measure flower with the measuring cup and the back of a butter knife as well!

    Reply
  33. Sarah R says

    August 2, 2013 at 9:55 am

    I use a measuring cup, but I keep meaning to switch to the scale…

    Reply
  34. Jennylind says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:02 am

    My life has been a lie! I have scooped and leveled since I could reach the top of the counter. I am so thankful for this tip! I really hope I win the giveaway, momma needs a kitchen scale!

    Reply
  35. Kellie says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:08 am

    I fluff and then spoon into a measuring cup, level with a knife. I like the idea of the weighing method better!

    Reply
  36. lisa says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:10 am

    thanks for letting me know

    Reply
  37. Mackenzie says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:11 am

    My seventh grade home ec class was where I too learned how to measure flour. Baking gluten free can be a little challenging, so I have been meaning to buy a scale to weigh my flour to make sure my baked goods are consistent. Currently I gently spoon the flour into my measuring cups and level it off with the back of a knife. A scale would definitely come in handy!

    Reply
  38. zena thomas says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:12 am

    I too have measured improperly and will measure by weight from now on. Thanks for the tip! Zena

    Reply
  39. Sherry R says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:13 am

    It is hard to break old habits. While I learned to sift then measure, it is so much easier to scoop. I generally “fluff” the flour with a spoon and spoon into the cup, but that is still not accurate.

    Reply
  40. Shelly says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:14 am

    I always fluff the flour, then spoon it into a measuring cup and level with a knife.

    Reply
  41. Nicole Clark says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:16 am

    Spoon into a measuring cup so it stays fluffy! I’m sad I haven’t been doing it properly but its nice to know I can turn things around :)

    Reply
  42. Julie Eicher says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:18 am

    I use a cup measure, although I was taught not to level off with flour.

    Reply
  43. Barb says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:21 am

    I alway dipped and flattened with a knife

    Reply
  44. Abby Lyden says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:21 am

    I scooped and used a butter knife to measure the flour till reading about weighing it from king Arthur flour!

    Reply
  45. Mary W says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:22 am

    I learned a lot by reading your post. Love the photos – really helpful. I measure the way you learned too. No more! You showed me a better way to insure a consistent product.

    Reply
  46. Jen B says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:24 am

    I have always just used a measuring cup. But by the scoop method. After this post I will now be changing my measuring ways.

    Reply
  47. Martha says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:25 am

    I spoon it into a measuring cup and then level off.

    Reply
  48. Elaine Ellen says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:28 am

    Very inaccurately! And with a measuring cup.

    Reply
  49. Vanessa Rivera says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:33 am

    I used to scoop it out of the bag until I read an article about the spoon and sweep method. I do that now :)

    Reply
  50. Amy says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:35 am

    I’ve only ever done the fill and scrape. How interesting to learn I’ve been doing it wrong for so many years. What a great giveaway!

    Reply
  51. Natalie G. says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:35 am

    It is so bad, but I scoop- all my recipes work out that way. However, if I come across a new one, and it has weights, I do weigh it.

    Reply
  52. Karl L says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:41 am

    I use a scale if I’m baking. Whipping up Sunday pancakes I just measure in the cup. Since I’ve made them 9000 times I barely need to even do that at this point. I’m glad when recipes are built around weight and not volume.

    Reply
  53. Kesha says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:45 am

    I measure my flour with my dry measuring cups

    Reply
  54. Ashley Watkins says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:48 am

    Thanks for explaining the correct way to measure flour! I’ve been doing it wrong all of these years. I’ve known I should use a scale, but since I didn’t have one I just scooped and leveled with a knife. Your instructions are so helpful–thanks!

    Reply
  55. Debbie says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:50 am

    Fluff, put in cup, lightly even off the top. I’ve not yet joined the world of weighing flour, but this post might just convince me to do so!

    Reply
  56. Shanna says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:51 am

    I measure exactly how you said not to lol. I scoop it and level it with a knife.

    Reply
  57. Kali says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:52 am

    I’d love a food scale so I can measure properly. Because I definitely don’t now!

    Reply
  58. Angela says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:55 am

    I use my measuring cup.

    Reply
  59. Sheila says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:58 am

    I usually fluff and scoop, but have sometimes used the scoop and level method for new recipes because I also learned that in home-ec class.

    Reply
  60. Greta says

    August 2, 2013 at 11:01 am

    never had at home any measure devices, so I go without any specific measuring – I go with my gut. I know that a cup of flour is about 160grams, so it suits me when I count. I add a bit of love and all of my baking ends up ok :)

    Reply
  61. LoriAnne in Oregon says

    August 2, 2013 at 11:02 am

    I measure flour with a measuring cup and level off with a knife, the way my mother and grandmother taught me.

    Reply
  62. Malia says

    August 2, 2013 at 11:03 am

    It looks as if I have been measuring flour incorrectly too. Did we have the same Home Ec teacher? And to be honest, I’m still probably pretty inconsistent all the time. Excited to try your new and improved (correct) method!

    Reply
  63. Dolores says

    August 2, 2013 at 11:03 am

    Definitely weighing is the way to go! So much easier.

    Reply
  64. Valerie says

    August 2, 2013 at 11:03 am

    I am terrible about measuring my flour!! This post explains a lot about my dry cookies!!!

    Reply
  65. Valerie says

    August 2, 2013 at 11:05 am

    This post helps a lot. Thanks for the tip!

    Reply
  66. phyllis ostrofsky says

    August 2, 2013 at 11:06 am

    I measure my flour exactly as you do with my scale set to gram weight (more accurate, I think?).

    Reply
  67. danielle says

    August 2, 2013 at 11:12 am

    I’ve never measured – who knew??!!

    Reply
  68. Lisa says

    August 2, 2013 at 11:19 am

    Yay! I do measure it correctly!

    Reply
  69. Jan W. says

    August 2, 2013 at 12:46 pm

    I usually “fluff, scoop and level. Would LOVE a scale!

    Reply
  70. Susan says

    August 2, 2013 at 12:53 pm

    I either gently push the flour into the measuring cup with my (oh so clean) hand, or use a smaller measure to scoop and pour it into the measure I need. I bake a lot and would almost die for a scale! ;)

    Reply
  71. Emily says

    August 2, 2013 at 12:55 pm

    i do the ol’ scoop and shimmy. i almost always use too much flour, maybe that’s why yesterday’s cake was so dry…

    Reply
  72. Beth R says

    August 2, 2013 at 1:03 pm

    I would weigh if I owned a scale. Since I dont I put my flour in a large ceramic canister set Iv had for years. In my flour and sugar canisters I have a Tuperware scoop that when pushed down lays flat so it fits. I scoop my flour with it then level off with a butter knife so its not compated down into the measuring cup. Must be a good method, Iv won over a hundred ribbonsfor baking, cooking etc at my county faiir over the years

    Reply
  73. carey says

    August 2, 2013 at 1:06 pm

    I fluff up the flour with my measuring cup, then scoop. So it probably falls right in between the 2.

    Reply
  74. Siva says

    August 2, 2013 at 1:28 pm

    I’ve always used a measuring scoop!

    Reply
  75. Jayme Job says

    August 2, 2013 at 1:36 pm

    I’ve never used a scale, but should probably start! I’ve always just leveled it off with a butter knife.

    Reply
  76. Mary Jane Hillpot says

    August 2, 2013 at 1:48 pm

    I use a measuring cup!

    Reply
  77. Phebe says

    August 2, 2013 at 1:57 pm

    I follow your 7th grade lead: scoop and level with a knife (or, more often, my finger). I know it’s not the proper way to do it, but it gets the job done.

    Reply
  78. Kel says

    August 2, 2013 at 2:07 pm

    Usually a measuring cup.

    Reply
  79. Kelster says

    August 2, 2013 at 2:17 pm

    I weigh for bread but fluff and scoop for cakes. My scale is a tiny 1lb affair though so the weighing is kinda annoying.

    Reply
  80. Katie says

    August 2, 2013 at 2:53 pm

    I do the scoop and scrape with a knife method.

    Reply
  81. Dani H says

    August 2, 2013 at 3:19 pm

    I’ve been doing the scoop and scrape with a knife method, but would like to change to weighing.

    Thanks for a chance at the giveaway.

    Reply
  82. Georgia @ The Comfort of Cooking says

    August 2, 2013 at 3:21 pm

    Great tip and giveaway, Audra! I’m a bad girl and scoop right from the bag of flour. Bad, I know! I really should get into better habits. Anyway, thanks for sharing. Have a great weekend!

    Reply
  83. Lindsay says

    August 2, 2013 at 3:23 pm

    I always measured flour by using a small spoon to scoop flour into the measuring cup and then leveling. I think it worked sort of the same way, except the spoon did the fluffing. But a scale would be so much more precise!

    Reply
  84. Nancy Flemming says

    August 2, 2013 at 3:28 pm

    Fluff and level!

    Reply
  85. Cynthia T says

    August 2, 2013 at 3:36 pm

    Whoa! I’ve been measuring flour the wrong way for years now! I scoop right from the bag; maybe that’s why some recipes come out so weird. Thanks for the tips!

    Reply
  86. lisaelaine says

    August 2, 2013 at 3:50 pm

    I usually use a spoon to add the flour into the measuring cup then level off with a knife.

    Reply
  87. Brandy says

    August 2, 2013 at 4:04 pm

    I fluff, scoop, and level.

    Reply
  88. Kayle (The Cooking Actress) says

    August 2, 2013 at 4:31 pm

    I usually do the scoop and level method but sometimes I weigh too (although I need a new scale, mine’s not soo good lol)

    Reply
  89. Marilyn says

    August 2, 2013 at 5:01 pm

    That explains so many recipes (I learned the measuring technique of scoop and level). I am looking forward to the new method of scooping, or perhaps (if I am the fortunate winner) using a scale!

    Reply
  90. Kristen says

    August 2, 2013 at 5:11 pm

    I always practiced the scoop and sweep! It might explain some of my failures… a scale just might solve all my problems!

    Reply
  91. Lovie says

    August 2, 2013 at 5:41 pm

    I scoop my flour into my measuring cup with a spoon and level if off with a knife

    Reply
  92. Jessie C. says

    August 2, 2013 at 5:46 pm

    I use measuring cups only

    Reply
  93. Glo says

    August 2, 2013 at 5:46 pm

    I use a spoon to dish out the flour from it’s container into the measuring cup, but never thought of “fluffing” it. Always wondered about if I should “sift” flour first even when not called for(?)

    Reply
  94. Kayla says

    August 2, 2013 at 6:00 pm

    I’m a scooper! I am GF so I really should be measuring my flours for better accuracy since all GF flours weigh different amounts.

    Reply
  95. Laura says

    August 2, 2013 at 6:09 pm

    I usually spoon the flour into the measuring cup (loosely), then gently level it off with a butter knife.

    Reply
  96. JC says

    August 2, 2013 at 6:10 pm

    I measure by “scooping”, but I am going to start aerating before I scoop.

    Reply
  97. Anene says

    August 2, 2013 at 6:20 pm

    I actually use your former method i.e i put the measuring cup in my flour container and use a table knife to level it.

    Reply
  98. Emily says

    August 2, 2013 at 6:57 pm

    Just a measuring cup, but that may change…

    Reply
  99. Kathy says

    August 2, 2013 at 8:18 pm

    I still do it the old way, but I’m willing to change!

    Reply
  100. Sara says

    August 2, 2013 at 10:45 pm

    usually by weight! :)

    Reply
  101. Emily @ Life on Food says

    August 3, 2013 at 5:44 am

    When I make bread I weigh but most of the time I just scoop. I fluff a bit but I am sure it is still heavier.

    Reply
  102. Lisa Langston says

    August 3, 2013 at 7:10 am

    I use a spoon and add flour to the measuring cup then use a butter knife to level it off. This sounds much better though.

    Reply
  103. Molly says

    August 3, 2013 at 9:09 am

    Most of the time i just scoop it into a measuring cup. Honestly I don’t even usually sift it. It’s a miricle my recipes work out!

    Reply
  104. Tracy says

    August 3, 2013 at 9:22 am

    Usually scoop and level, unless the recipe is specific about weighing.

    Reply
  105. Sharon says

    August 3, 2013 at 9:46 am

    measuring cup and butter knife is how i do it!!

    Reply
  106. Tommy says

    August 3, 2013 at 9:58 am

    I always use the scoop and level method..

    Reply
  107. Alli Joy says

    August 3, 2013 at 11:25 am

    I’ve always just used a level measuring cup, and never given much thought to it until now! I would love to see how weighing the flour would change my baking.

    Reply
  108. Jan R says

    August 3, 2013 at 12:39 pm

    This may seem a little ackward but I have tested with my scale and it is VERY acurate. I keep a 1 cup and a 1/2 cup platic measuring cup in my flour bin; which I keep in my refrigerator. If I need a 1/2 cup I use the 1 cup measuring cup to “fluff” the flour and dip and shake into the 1/2 cup measure then level off with the edge of the 1 cup measuring cup. Works great and I have 2 different utinsel at hand and don’t have to wash each time. Have been using this method for a LONG time!

    Reply
  109. Safa says

    August 3, 2013 at 12:59 pm

    I used to scoop flour out of a bin then level off until a good friend of mine showed me how to fluff and then measure into cup with a spoon. After recently discovering your blog I’ve been looking into buying a scale!

    Reply
  110. Doris says

    August 3, 2013 at 1:50 pm

    oops–I dip and measure. Guess I change now I now the correct way.

    Reply
  111. Carolyn says

    August 3, 2013 at 2:35 pm

    I love recipes that are by weight rather than volume. It’s much faster to make and no need to dirty a measuring cup!

    Reply
  112. Ayala says

    August 3, 2013 at 2:46 pm

    Great site and recipes! I weigh my flour. For the reasons you’ve described, above, I find it MUCH easier and results are MUCH more consistent!

    Reply
  113. Lauren says

    August 3, 2013 at 4:27 pm

    I always spoon my flour into my measuring cup, would be interesting to see how much it weighs!

    Reply
  114. Stella (Ex Libris) says

    August 3, 2013 at 4:51 pm

    For recipes which use cups I spoon my flour in a measuring cup, but for normal recipes where the necessary flour amount is in grams I weigh it on my scale.

    Reply
  115. Lisa says

    August 3, 2013 at 6:04 pm

    I used a food scale and measured into grams. I let a friend borrow my xoxo food scale who never gave it back & just moved away. For now I do it the same way you have shown however, I’m not very confident however my pastries come out fine but miss my awesome scale!

    Reply
  116. Kimi says

    August 3, 2013 at 6:27 pm

    I scoop it and run a knife over it

    Reply
  117. Rebecca Bowen says

    August 3, 2013 at 6:27 pm

    I use scales to weigh out my ingredients. The classic (one bowl) chocolate cake just caught my eye as I was looking through your blog it looks yummy, will definitely be giving that a go!!

    Reply
  118. Abby says

    August 3, 2013 at 8:09 pm

    I use the scoop and level method. A scale would be so much more accurate!

    Reply
  119. chelsea @ serves two says

    August 3, 2013 at 8:45 pm

    i scoop and level, just like my mom taught me :)

    Reply
  120. Nan says

    August 3, 2013 at 9:22 pm

    Definitely fluff and scoop (I don’t have a scale). I fluff the flour in the canister with a fork or a whisk then scoop up spoonfuls into my cup finally leveling with a knife. It works for me. BTW Love your site!

    Reply
  121. Rani says

    August 3, 2013 at 11:11 pm

    Absolutely love your blog! :) I used to just scoop my flour, but I’ve noticed a big difference now that i spoon my flour into my measuring cups.

    Reply
  122. Anna says

    August 4, 2013 at 12:44 am

    I dip and scoop, but would really love an accurate scale to measure my ingredients!

    Reply
  123. Amy S says

    August 4, 2013 at 12:59 am

    I scoop into the cup and then level

    Reply
  124. SE in Oregon says

    August 4, 2013 at 1:55 am

    Thanks for the info. Would love to win the scale since I don’t have one. Looks great.

    Reply
  125. Brad G says

    August 4, 2013 at 2:33 am

    I use measuring cups, might not be the most accurate, but I’ve been successful with them.

    Reply
  126. Mackenzie says

    August 4, 2013 at 2:52 am

    I was taught to scoop into a measuring cup tap it down and level. A scale sounds soooo much easier.

    Reply
  127. Bakin_Goddess says

    August 4, 2013 at 4:04 am

    I definitely need a scale! I have always used the scoop, scrape with a knife and add to my recipe as it calls for. I’ve wondered why some recipes work well with that method and some do not. Thank you for the information!

    Reply
  128. Ashley HM says

    August 4, 2013 at 9:06 am

    I learned this tip a few years ago from Ina Garten…it makes such a difference! Love, love, love your blog!

    Reply
  129. Kelly says

    August 4, 2013 at 10:03 am

    I just recently learned about the “right” way to measure flour- need to try a new recipe soon!

    Reply
  130. Martha says

    August 4, 2013 at 10:36 am

    My mom taught my sisters and me the fluff, measure and level technique, which has held us in good stead for a very long time; we are very good bakers! This particular scale would be a very welcome addition to my kitchen…

    Reply
  131. Jeffrey says

    August 4, 2013 at 12:29 pm

    I measure it the same why I do my cocaine…just kidding I scoop and scrape with an offset spatula!

    Reply
  132. Heather @ Sugar Dish Me says

    August 4, 2013 at 12:38 pm

    I’m usually a scoop & scraper. But if I’m making something fussy I usually spoon & level. I swear I just had my eye on this same scale on Groupon 2 days ago!!!

    Reply
  133. Meghan Finley says

    August 4, 2013 at 12:38 pm

    My mother will surely be mad if I disclose my new way to measure so let’s keep this between us ;) Thanks for the great giveaway. I love OXO products

    Reply
  134. Clara says

    August 4, 2013 at 3:55 pm

    When I’m feeling motivated, I spoon and level. But most of the time, i just scoop with my measuring cup. I know it’s bad but sometimes I just can’t bother!

    Reply
  135. stephanie says

    August 4, 2013 at 4:39 pm

    I measure with a scale if weight is given, if not, I use the sift/spoon in cup method. Sometime I do fluff and scoop old-school recipes.

    Reply
    • stephanie says

      August 4, 2013 at 4:40 pm

      for* old-school recipes :)

      Reply
  136. Leah says

    August 4, 2013 at 4:58 pm

    I must admit that I am guilty of measuring it the way that you said that you used to…scoop it in and level it off

    Reply
  137. Ivy says

    August 4, 2013 at 5:22 pm

    I tend to measure by lightly scooping the flour into my measuring cup.

    Reply
  138. Tracey says

    August 4, 2013 at 6:27 pm

    I really prefer to weigh the flour when possible, but if the recipe only gives volume measurements I fluff the flour, then scoop into the cup and level with an offset spatula.

    Reply
  139. barbara n says

    August 4, 2013 at 6:40 pm

    I use to use measuring cups, but now weigh my ingredients whenever possible! Would love to win this giveaway to share with my daughter who has become a great pie baker!

    Reply
  140. amy says

    August 4, 2013 at 7:10 pm

    I either use the scale (if the recipe has weights) or I use a smaller measuring cup to scoop the flour out and shake it into the larger measuring cup.

    Reply
  141. Lily says

    August 4, 2013 at 7:16 pm

    I’ve been doing it very lazily… I just scoop it in the cup and do a rough level-off with my fingers. But I think a scale like this one would help :)

    Reply
  142. Krista says

    August 4, 2013 at 10:35 pm

    I am lame…I a scooper. However tomorrow I will attempt the fluff and sprinkle method!!

    Reply
  143. Calli says

    August 5, 2013 at 12:23 am

    I always just leveled too!

    Reply
  144. lehar says

    August 5, 2013 at 5:09 am

    I normally spoon and sweep. Occasionally I weigh but I have the old school spring scales which are not always 100% accurate.

    Reply
  145. Amy says

    August 5, 2013 at 6:59 am

    I usually just scoop and dump it in! I’m never very exact.

    Reply
  146. Jim says

    August 5, 2013 at 7:59 am

    I went to culinary school so I weigh….everything, but before that I did the scoop and level.

    Reply
  147. rachel garber says

    August 5, 2013 at 8:50 am

    I’ve done it wrong for years – I just stick my cup in my flour and eye ball if it looks about right. Probably why I can’t make a good chocolate chip cookie and my husband can (he was raised on the way of properly measuring flour!)

    Reply
  148. Betty Ann @Mango_Queen says

    August 5, 2013 at 10:32 am

    I would love to win this OXO scale. I never realized what a difference it would make in the outcome of anything you bake. I enjoyed and learned a lot from Abby Dodge’s baking demo at BSP4. Hope I win this. Thanks for the chance to win this giveaway :-)

    Reply
  149. Betty Ann @Mango_Queen says

    August 5, 2013 at 10:34 am

    I use regular measuring cups and spoons to measure my flour and dry ingredients. Hope I win this scale so baking results get better.

    Reply
  150. Becky Kasten says

    August 5, 2013 at 10:49 am

    I get lazy sometimes but try to remember to do it the right way:)

    Reply
  151. Katie C. says

    August 5, 2013 at 12:03 pm

    I spoon my flour into my measuring cup and then level it with the flat of a knife. Please enter me in your lovely give away!

    Reply
  152. Barbara C says

    August 5, 2013 at 12:59 pm

    I use a scale, but I would live to give it to my daughter and have the new fancy-dancy Oxo one ;)

    Reply
  153. Mandy T says

    August 5, 2013 at 1:18 pm

    I would LOVE to win this scale. Mine has been broken for a few years and I just haven’t replaced it yet ….

    Reply
  154. Bethany F says

    August 5, 2013 at 2:02 pm

    I measure by scooping in the measuring cup and then scraping it off with a knife. I want a kitchen scale SO badly!

    Reply
  155. Mia Jamal says

    August 5, 2013 at 2:43 pm

    Gosh!!! This would be amazing:) measuring flour is not fun…this would certainly make it better!!

    Reply
  156. Sara @ Confectionary Tales says

    August 5, 2013 at 3:11 pm

    I use a combination of the methods. I don’t use my scale (I don’t know why) but I use a measuring cup and fluff the flour as I scoop it.

    Reply
  157. feminazgul says

    August 5, 2013 at 3:19 pm

    I scoop my flour in to my measuring cups!

    Reply
  158. Christine says

    August 5, 2013 at 5:29 pm

    I spoon flour into measuring cups to keep it light and airy!

    Reply
  159. Whitney says

    August 5, 2013 at 6:12 pm

    I use the spoon and level method!

    Reply
  160. Estili says

    August 5, 2013 at 6:54 pm

    When I’m at work I use a scale, but at home I use the technique you originally outlined….scoop and level. I had no idea it may be more than I actually need!

    Reply
  161. deidre says

    August 5, 2013 at 7:01 pm

    i’ve been doing it wrong all these years – shaking down and then (usually) leveling with my finger! oops. I will have to try the proper way next time!

    Reply
  162. Judy C says

    August 5, 2013 at 8:39 pm

    I do the fluff and sprinkle method – but I just learned to do it that way fairly recently!

    Reply
  163. Kathy S says

    August 5, 2013 at 10:38 pm

    I measure flour with a cup and a straight edge. I don’t weigh it though.

    Reply
  164. VIckie Palmer says

    August 6, 2013 at 1:06 am

    I always weigh ingredients. It’s the only way to ensure the best tasting products.

    Reply
  165. Margot C says

    August 6, 2013 at 3:39 am

    I have been measuring by volume but I really think that a scale would be better

    Reply
  166. Kristin H says

    August 6, 2013 at 9:19 am

    I have been measuring the same way for years, but have recently come across more and more articles saying that weighing your ingredients is the better way

    Reply
  167. Chris M says

    August 6, 2013 at 11:12 am

    I think a scale would make a big difference; baking is chemistry after all, but like your trick too!

    Reply
  168. Faye says

    August 6, 2013 at 3:57 pm

    I use a combination of the methods…I fluff up the flour, then scoop and level. I NEED this scale! : )

    Reply
  169. Nona says

    August 6, 2013 at 7:47 pm

    I’ve always measured it the way you described–scooping and leveling. This is great to know though, thanks!

    Reply
  170. Olivia says

    August 7, 2013 at 10:57 am

    I’ve always done it the scooping and leveling way! Great new tip learned :)

    Reply
  171. Robin says

    August 7, 2013 at 5:14 pm

    I stir and scoop or measure…depending on how accurate I’m feeling :)

    Reply
  172. Nicole-Lynn says

    August 7, 2013 at 5:53 pm

    I haven’t measured flour like this before, I’m sure it’d help with accuracy when baking! I’ve always scooped and leveled.

    Reply
  173. Sallie says

    August 7, 2013 at 8:20 pm

    I use one measuring cup to scoop and pour into another.

    Reply
  174. Donna says

    August 7, 2013 at 10:43 pm

    scoop and level…..

    Reply
  175. Dana says

    August 8, 2013 at 9:25 am

    I usually fluff the flour a little and then scoop, but I know I’m not always very accurate :)

    Reply
  176. Lucy says

    August 8, 2013 at 8:07 pm

    oops…I just use the measuring cup and a spatula.

    Reply

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