Skip to Content

How to Quickly Measure 1/3 Teaspoon: Tips for Dividing Recipes (2023)

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

How can I measure 1/3 of a teaspoonWhat a coincidence – you were just baking cookies and realized your recipe makes way more than you need. Dividing recipes isn’t always straightforward, but have no fear. We’re here to walk you through quickly and easily measuring 1/3 teaspoon, converting measurements, and downsizing recipes perfectly every time.

With a few simple tricks, you’ll be an expert at dividing recipes and measurements in no time. We’ll look at teaspoon and tablespoon equivalents, how to convert between units, quick ways to divide measurements, and tips for choosing measuring spoons and using them correctly.

You’ll learn how spoon sizes, materials, and designs affect accuracy and get cooking tips to make measuring easy. Before you know it, you’ll effortlessly bake the perfect batch of cookies or whip up a dinner for two.

So grab your measuring spoons and let’s get cooking! Measuring 1/3 teaspoon will be a cinch.

Key Takeaways

  • Use quality stainless steel measuring spoons with clear etched fraction markings.
  • Level off excess ingredient for accuracy. Scraping off the top with a straight edge removes excess and ensures you have the precise amount.
  • Check eye level with spoon to ensure proper fill line. The correct amount is visible when viewing it head on.
  • Around 7 drops of a liquid equals 1/3 tsp if you don’t have measuring spoons handy.

Measuring Spoon Sizes

Measuring Spoon Sizes
You’ll need to estimate about a pinch of it if you don’t have a spoon marked 1/3. The metric system is based on milliliters for measuring liquid and solid volumes in cooking. But in the U.S. and Canada, teaspoons and tablespoons are still used instead of milliliters for measuring.

Luckily, there are metric measuring sets with 1/3 teaspoon markings that make this easy. Australian metric tablespoons are a bit different, with 20 ml per tablespoon instead of 15 ml. So an Australian metric 1/3 tablespoon would be around 6.5 ml. With the metric system, you don’t need to memorize conversions between teaspoons and tablespoons.

Just remember that 1 ml is 1/5 of a teaspoon. So 1/3 teaspoon would be about 1.75 ml in metric cooking. Even in metric countries, recipes sometimes specify teaspoons and tablespoons instead of ml. So getting a metric measuring set marked with fractions will help you with accuracy in those cases.

Measuring Spoon Materials

Measuring Spoon Materials
Instead of grabbing any old spoon, invest in a quality stainless steel set so your fractions don’t flake off into the batter.

Plastic measuring spoons may seem convenient, but the markings can wear off over time. This makes it hard to accurately measure your fractions. Metal spoons are more durable for longevity. Stainless steel provides sturdiness without the risk of rusting. Standardized sizing is also key for precision.

Some cheap spoons are improperly sized, throwing your recipes off. With quality spoons, you can trust the fractions.

  • 1/8 teaspoon
  • 1/3 teaspoon
  • 1/2 teaspoon
  • 1 teaspoon
  • 1 tablespoon

The best measuring spoons have etched markings that won’t fade or flake away. This ensures you can clearly read the measurements years down the road. Stainless steel provides that etched precision and durability. With the right set, you’ll have confidence measuring fractions for recipes that require precision.

Your cookies, cakes, breads, and sauces will turn out perfectly every time. Investing in standardized stainless steel provides reliability you can count on, one teaspoon at a time.

Measuring Spoon Design

Measuring Spoon Design
You can quickly eyeball a 1/3 teaspoon amount. Start by picturing a standard teaspoon in your mind. Mentally divide it into thirds. The smallest third is about 1/3 teaspoon. For a more precise measurement, use a quality stainless steel measuring spoon set.

These standardized spoons ensure accuracy. Search for a set with 1/8, 1/3, 1/2, and 1 teaspoon markings etched into durable stainless steel.

When measuring, examine your 1/3 teaspoon spoon. Note its shape and curved interior. Mentally take snapshots to imprint the volume in your mind. Fill the spoon, drawing from your spices, herbs, or baking ingredients.

Level it off evenly. Pour into your mixture. Studying the 1/3 teaspoon visual will help you replicate a similar amount when eyeballing.

You can also count drops or pinches to reach 1/3 teaspoon. For liquids, aim for around 20 drops. Tilt the bottle slowly, steadily counting each drop. Stop at 20 for about 1/3 teaspoon. For dry spices, pinch the powder between your fingers. Around a good pinch equals 1/3 teaspoon.

Let the imprinted mental images guide your eyeballed amounts. With practice, you’ll become skilled at quickly estimating a 1/3 teaspoon. Soon this useful cooking skill will feel natural, helping you efficiently season dishes with just the right touch.

To Detach or Not Detach Spoons

To Detach or Not Detach Spoons
You’re looking to optimize your kitchen efficiency when cooking elaborate recipes with multiple ingredients. Should you detach the measuring spoons, using only the size you need before replacing it back in the set? Or keep them connected, moving down the ring set for each measurement? Well, you want cooking to feel fun, not frustrating.

So choose what makes sense for your style. Detaching each spoon means washing fewer mid-recipe. No need to clean the whole set if you only used 1/4 teaspoon. But detaching risks losing pieces. Those tiny teaspoons and tablespoons can disappear in a cluttered drawer when separated from their ring.

Keeping the spoons together provides a full range of US and metric sizes in one grab. But using the same spoon means washing it repeatedly if the recipe needs multiple measurements.

Test both ways when making recipes with teaspoons, tablespoons, or metric milliliters. See if separating or keeping the ring together optimizes your kitchen flow. Then make the choice that helps you find satisfaction in creating delicious dishes.

Measuring in Metric System

Measuring in Metric System
You’d use about 20 metric drops to get 1/3 of a teaspoon.

  • Purchase measuring spoons with markings for 1/8, 1/3, 1/4 teaspoons. This ensures accuracy when needing fractions.
  • Use a plastic dropper bottle for liquids like vanilla or almond extract. Squeeze out 20 drops for 1/3 tsp.
  • For dry ingredients like baking soda or cinnamon, spoon in just enough to reach 1/3 teaspoon line.
  • If you don’t have measuring spoons, use the tip of a knife. Dip just the tip in and that’s about 1/3 teaspoon.

With countries like Canada and Australia adopting the metric system, cooking in grams and milliliters is becoming more common. But even in metric countries, teaspoons and tablespoons still appear in recipes and cooking shows.

So having a conversion chart handy helps when tackling metric recipes. Knowing that 20 drops or a pinch equals 1/3 teaspoon allows you to measure with precision no matter the system. Equipping your kitchen for both U.S. customary and metric ensures you can recreate dishes from around the world.

International Variations

International Variations
Have you ever tried following a recipe from another country and gotten tripped up by the measurements? When it comes to a tricky amount like 1/3 teaspoon, the size can vary depending on where you live.

For example, in Australia, a tablespoon is 20 ml while a European tablespoon is generally more casual and pulled haphazardly from a drawer. So whether you’re baking a pavlova from an Australian cookbook or recreating your favorite French sauce, having a few tricks up your sleeve for converting 1/3 teaspoon ensures your dishes turn out properly no matter which part of the world they’re from.

Australia

Down under they make their tablespoons hold 20ml, so when tackling Aussie recipes best grab an extra spoonful or risk a botched bake. Confused cooks clamor over cups and spoons when confronted with Australia’s larger tablespoons.

The country uses the metric system with unique twists like 20ml tablespoons. But tradition still sneaks in those teas and tablespoons when sharing recipes.

So beware that an Aussie tablespoon overflows with extra milliliters. Stay keen on key size differences. Embrace metric to avoid a meal mishap. With awareness, converting and calculating becomes second nature.

Soon that lamington cake will have the perfect sweetness for afternoon tea, no matter the location.

Equipping your kitchen for both systems ensures recipes translate properly across continents.

Location Teaspoon Size Tablespoon Size
U.S. 5 ml 15 ml
Canada 5 ml 15 ml
Australia 5 ml 20 ml
New Zealand 5 ml 15 ml
UK 5 ml 15 ml

Europe

Don’t panic when that European recipe calls for a tablespoon. Their spoons mirror ours, so you won’t ruin the dish.

  • A European tablespoon equals 15ml, the same as the U.S.
  • Their teaspoons also align with the 5ml U.S. size.
  • They use the metric system but rely on traditional spoon terms.
  • Converting between systems is straightforward.
  • With standard sizes, you can cook their recipes with confidence.

Relax knowing your tools translate. Focus instead on that soufflé rising perfectly as you become an expert in cross-continental cuisine.

Cooking Tips for Measuring

Cooking Tips for Measuring
Filling your teaspoon just a third full ensures perfect tiny measurements for delicious recipes from around the world.

  • Choose a set of measuring spoons with clear 1/8, 1/4, 1/3 markings etched into the handles.
  • Examine your measuring spoon at eye level, with the teaspoon held horizontally. The liquid or dry good should perfectly meet the labeled line, not spill over or underfill.
  • Carefully level off excess ingredient from the spoon using a knife or your finger.

With practice, you’ll become adept at nailing tiny measurements. Your dishes’ll impressively balance flavors and textures. Satisfaction comes from serving your loved ones the perfect bite. So take time and care when measuring, even with a tricky amount like 1/3 teaspoon.

Teaspoon and Tablespoon Equivalents

Teaspoon and Tablespoon Equivalents
You’ve gotta know that a teaspoon equals 5 ml, and a tablespoon’s triple that at 15 mm. When you’re measuring ingredients, those conversions’ll be your bread and butter.

See, baking’s an exact science. Too much of this, too little of that, and your muffins’ll be hockey pucks. But with measuring spoons, you can pinch, dash, and shake with confidence. Keep multiple sets handy so you needn’t pause mid-recipe to wash the same one again.

Mix and match sizes like 1/8 teaspoon for a perfect pinch of cinnamon, 1/4 for a shake of nutmeg, and 1/3 when you’re hankering for just a tad more vanilla to share that sweet comfort.

Take time reading those etched lines at eye level before leveling off excess. And store your spoons neatly together so none go missing. Become one who measures with care and precision, and you’ll be known for treats from apple pie to zebra cake that satisfy a craving and uplift the spirit.

Dividing Measurements Quickly

Dividing Measurements Quickly
When baking and cooking, being precise with your measurements is crucial. As you know, teaspoons and tablespoons form the foundation. Now let’s dive into dividing those units for recipes calling for fractions like 1/3 teaspoon.

You’ll want to get familiar with the 1/8, 1/3, 1/4 markings etched into your measuring spoons. Take time to study them at eye level before scooping. For a 1/3 teaspoon, don’t completely fill the spoon.

Instead, imagine dividing it into thirds and filling just one section about halfway.

Here are some tips for dividing measurements quickly:

  • For solid ingredients like sugar or flour, think in terms of a pinch or dash to estimate 1/3 teaspoon.
  • For liquids like vanilla, count out drops—about 20 for 1/3 teaspoon.
  • Buy a set of measuring spoons with multiple sizes like 1/8 and 1/3 markings. This makes dividing easier.
  • Use a conversion chart as a guide until you get the hang of it.

Remember that being accurate to the fraction matters tremendously in baking. Too much baking powder or too little sugar throws the chemistry off. So take your time, use all your senses, and don’t rush. With experience, you’ll soon be measuring fractions by instinct alone.

For now, focus on learning the nuances of your tools and ingredients. Let the patience and care you put into measuring fractions reflect the generosity and compassion you want to share with others. Make it meditative. The extra attention will come through in the joy others experience eating your baked goods.

Converting Between Units

Converting Between Units
Let’s cut to the chase: Convertin’ between units requires knowin’ your conversions cold. When a recipe calls for a fraction of a teaspoon or tablespoon, you gotta be ready to translate that into milliliters quick as a whip.

Unit 1/8 1/4 1/3 1/2
teaspoon 0.6 ml 1.25 ml 1.75 ml 2.5 ml
tablespoon 1.9 ml 3.75 ml 5 ml 7.5 ml

For instance, if you see 1/3 tablespoon required, know that it equals 5 ml without hesitation. Memorize these fractional equivalents through regular use, and you’ll be measurin’ like a pro.

While learnin’ the conversions, don’t sweat it if you make a mistake here and there. Baking is an act of love, not perfection. Focus on enjoyin’ the process and sharin’ the results.

Over time, you’ll develop an intuition around those fractions of teaspoons and tablespoons. The numbers will come to you in a flash. For now, take it slow and use that chart as your guide. The more care you put into measurin’ precisely, the more joy your treats will bring to others.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are some common mistakes people make when measuring 1/3 teaspoon?

You’re eyeballing it, palms shaking as you pinch a measly sprinkle into the bowl. Stop! Take a deep breath, grab the 1/3 teaspoon, level it off, and fill the fraction properly.

How accurate do measurements need to be when baking versus cooking savory dishes?

You’ll need more precision when baking to get the right chemical reactions. With cooking, small errors won’t ruin the dish. So, focus on exact amounts for baked goods. But for stews or sautés, close is often fine.

What are quick tricks for dividing measurements in half or thirds without tools?

Just as an artist eyes proportions, eyeball a third of a teaspoon. Pour into the spoon, then dab and shake some back into the jar until it looks right. To halve something, divide it visually in a tiny bowl or on your hand. Trust your senses – taste and adjust.

Should I use measuring spoons for small amounts or weigh on a digital scale?

For tiny amounts, use the scale not spoons. With dry ingredients, weigh out portions. For wet, use drops or eyeball against markings. This avoids inaccurate spoon sizes and messy washing.

Are there any health concerns with using antique or vintage measuring spoons if the metal contains lead?

You’re wise to be concerned. Lead is unsafe, especially if antique spoons are pitted or flaking. Play it safe and use modern stainless steel spoons, which reliably provide the precise measurements your recipes require.

Conclusion

Dividing recipes requires some finesse, but a measuring cup bursting with savvy makes quick work of portions. With an array of spoons thoughtfully chosen, you’ll prepare perfect pinches, dashes, and dollops.

Amid the clatter and clink of measuring, heed the siren’s call of teaspoon fractions. Though recipes seem unyielding, with artful measurement you’ll soon master and remix to your heart’s delight.

References
  • ovenvia.com
Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is an author and software engineer from the United States, I and a group of experts made this blog with the aim of answering all the unanswered questions to help as many people as possible.