Baking: Measuring by Weight vs Volume
When it comes to baking, precision is key. Measuring ingredients accurately can mean the difference between a fluffy cake and a dense brick. Historically, home cooks have relied on volume measurements, using cups and spoons to scoop and level their ingredients. However, professional bakers often turn to measuring by weight, using a kitchen scale to ensure consistency. Measuring by weight offers several advantages, including greater accuracy and repeatability. Volume measurements can vary due to how densely an ingredient is packed into a measuring cup, leading to inconsistencies. Flour, for example, can vary significantly in volume depending on whether it's sifted, spooned, or scooped directly from the bag. By contrast, weight measurements are absolute—a cup of flour might weigh anywhere from 4 to 5 ounces, but 120 grams is always 120 grams. This precision translates to more reliable results, especially in delicate recipes like macarons or chiffon cakes. Additionally, measuring by weight is more efficient, reducing the number of dishes to wash. This technique is particularly useful when scaling recipes up or down. While transitioning to weight measurements might seem daunting, it's surprisingly straightforward with a reliable digital scale. Understanding the principles behind measuring by weight versus volume can elevate your baking from good to great, ensuring that your treats turn out perfectly every time.
Notes
Measuring by weight works because it eliminates the variability inherent in volume measurements. Factors like humidity can affect how much flour fits into a cup, but weight remains constant. Troubleshooting common mistakes involves ensuring your scale is on a flat surface and properly calibrated. Safety is not a major concern with this technique, but always ensure your scale is in good working order. For make-ahead and storage, keep your scale clean and dry, and consider writing down the weights of your favorite recipes for quick reference in the future.
Steps
- 1 Choose a digital kitchen scale that measures in grams.
- 2 Place a mixing bowl on the scale and press the tare button to reset to zero.
- 3 Add your dry ingredients directly to the bowl until you reach the desired weight.
- 4 Press tare after each ingredient to reset the scale for the next one.
- 5 For liquids, use a liquid measuring cup placed on the scale to ensure accuracy.
- 6 Measure sticky ingredients like honey by spraying the bowl with cooking spray first.
- 7 Record weights of ingredients for future use to maintain consistency.
- 8 Check your scale's calibration periodically to ensure accurate measurements.
- 9 Clean your scale after each use to prevent cross-contamination of flavors.
Ingredients to explore
Anchovy Paste
Anchovy paste is a rich, salty spread made from finely ground anchovies, salt, and sometimes olive oil. It offers a deep umami flavor that enhances a variety of dishes.
Aioli
A luscious, velvety emulsion of garlic and olive oil, aioli is a rich and aromatic sauce that dances on the palate with its creamy texture and bold, pungent flavor.
Recipes to try
One-Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Tender chicken and al dente pasta swim in a luscious, garlicky Parmesan sauce—all in one pot for a fuss-free family feast.
Roasted Zucchini, Corn, and Tomato Pasta Salad
This vibrant pasta salad is bursting with smoky roasted veggies and tangy feta, making every bite a taste of summer.