How many tablespoons in 1/2 cup? Guide

Volume unit converter

When we cook or bake, accurate measurements keep flavors and textures consistent. Tablespoons (tbsp) and cups are two common ways to measure. A tablespoon is smaller (in the U.S., it’s about 15 ml), while a cup is bigger (in the U.S., 1 cup is 8 fluid ounces or 16 tablespoons).

What Is a Tablespoon?

A tablespoon measures small amounts of ingredients. Different countries use slightly different sizes. In the U.S., it’s 15 ml. In the UK, about 17.7 ml. In Australia, 20 ml. Always check the recipe source so you use the right spoon size.

Different Tablespoon Sizes

Because tablespoon sizes vary by region, be sure you know which standard applies. This is key when following recipes from different countries.

Dry vs. Liquid Measurements

Dry and liquid ingredients are measured differently. For dry items, fill your cup or spoon without packing. For liquids, fill at eye level to match the measurement line.

Half Cup to Tablespoons

In U.S. cooking, 1/2 cup usually equals 8 tablespoons. That’s a handy number to remember if you don’t have a half-cup measure nearby. In the UK, it’s also around 8 tablespoons, but in Australia, where the tablespoon is larger, 1/2 cup is closer to 6.25 tablespoons.

How Many Tablespoons for Specific Ingredients?

Dry ingredients (like flour) often match the same conversion: 1/2 cup is about 8 tablespoons in the U.S. and UK, and around 6.25 tablespoons in Australia. Be sure not to pack your flour when measuring.

Water or other liquids measure similarly: 1/2 cup of water is about 8 tablespoons in the U.S. and UK, and around 6.25 in Australia.

Measuring Tips

Use a measuring spoon or cup designed for your region. For dry goods, level off the top. For liquids, check at eye level. This simple habit makes a big difference in your final dish.

Does a Half Cup Mean the Same for Dry and Liquid?

It’s close, but there can be slight variations if you switch from dry to liquid. Always measure liquids in a liquid measuring cup, and measure dry items with dry measuring tools if you can.

Australian Measurements

Australia uses a 20 ml tablespoon and a 250 ml cup. This makes 1/2 cup about 6.25 tablespoons. Always confirm the recipe’s country of origin to avoid confusion.

Conclusion

In most U.S. and UK recipes, half a cup is about 8 tablespoons. In Australia, it’s closer to 6.25. These small details matter, so always double-check your measurements. Accurate measuring makes your cooking more reliable and delicious.

Myriam Minne

Hi, I'm Myriam—a social media expert and passionate cook. I earned my chef’s diploma at the Spermatic Hotel School in Bruges and spent two years perfecting my pastry skills. I love exploring recipes from around the world and spending hours in the kitchen experimenting with new techniques. Every time I put on my apron, I create desserts that are both delicious and meaningful.