How to Cut Down Recipes

Taste of Home EditorsUpdated: Jan. 15, 2021

Always having to ask yourself how many tablespoons are in 1/3 cup? We have the answer, and more! Bookmark this page for the easiest way to downsize your favorite recipe.

How to Divide Measurements at a Glance

Use this handy chart when you’re cutting down a recipe. Need more recipes for two? We’ve got ’em!

Download Chart

 Original Amount 
 Half the Amount 
 One-Third the Amount 
1 cup1/2 cup1/3 cup
3/4 cup6 tbsp1/4 cup
2/3 cup1/3 cup3 tbsp+ 1-1/2 tsp
1/2 cup1/4 cup2 tbsp + 2 tsp
1/3 cup2 tbsp + 2 tsp1 tbsp + 1-1/4 tsp
1/4 cup2 tbsp1 tbsp + 1 tsp
1 tbsp1-1/2 tsp1 tsp
1 tsp1/2 tsp1/4 tsp
1/2 tsp1/4 tsp1/8 tsp
1/4 tsp1/8 tspDash

How to Convert Measurements to Tablespoons and Teaspoons

Here’s a listing of how many tablespoons and teaspoons are in larger measuring cup amounts. By the way, here’s how to measure without measuring cups.

  • 1 cup = 16 tbsp
  • Half of 1 cup = 8 tbsp
  • 3/4 cup = 12 tbsp
  • Half of 3/4 cup = 6 tbsp
  • 1/2 cup = 8 tbsp
  • Half of 1/2 cup = 4 tbsp
  • 1/3 cup = 5 tbsp + 1 tsp
  • Half of 1/3 cup = 2 tbsp + 2 tsp
  • 1/4 cup = 4 tbsp
  • Half of 1/4 cup = 2 tbsp
  • 1/8 cup = 2 tbsp
  • Half of 1/8 cup = 1 tbsp
  • 1/2 tbsp = 1-1/2 tsp

Learn how to measure ingredients like a pro.

Originally Published: October 31, 2018