Good measuring cups are a necessary tool in any good cook’s kitchen. But storing so many of them can result in cluttered drawers and cabinets. That’s why you should invest in a good set of collapsible measuring cups.
But do they measure wet and dry ingredients the same?
Some people ask if they really need to use a separate wet and dry measuring cups for their cooking. The answer to this is definitely “yes”.
The right measuring cups and spoons are very important. Sometimes, you think that your cake will turn out just fine even if you use the same measuring cups for both your flour and milk.
However, this is actually not a good idea, as you just can’t get the correct results if you measure dry ingredients in a wet measuring cup, or vice versa.
Even if they hold the same volume of the ingredients, they cannot measure them properly. This mismeasurement can negatively affect the end results of all your hard work in the kitchen. Hence, you must have separate measuring cups for wet and dry ingredients–unless you specifically buy a set that can measure both.
In a hurry? Here are our favorite collapsible measuring cups from Amazon.
| Best Collapsible Measuring Cups | Why We Like Them |
|---|---|
| 1. LLCHB Measuring Cups and Spoons Set | includes spoon measures as well |
| 2. Syncmarket Measuring Cups and Measuring Spoons Set | are dishwasher safe and come with a warranty |
| 3. Fawei Collapsible Silicone Measuring Cups | are good for a budget |
| 4. Aqkilo Collapsible Measuring Cups and Measuring Spoon Set | colorful designs will increase interest in cooking in children |
| 5. Ingeniuso Measuring Spoons and Collapsible Measuring Cups Set for Liquid & Dry Food | these collapse flat; great for RVs or camping trips |
| 6. Kaptron Tools Spoons and Collapsible Measuring Cups | are extra durable and built to last |
| 7. ADfreemall Collapsible Measuring Cups and Spoons Set | food-quality silicone is easy to clean |
| 8. HINMAY Collapsible Silicone Measuring Cups and Spoons Set | comes with 100% customer satisfaction promise |
| 9. SOLIFEGOBLE Collapsible Measuring Cups and Spoons | comes with guaranteed replacement or refund if you are not satisfied |
What’s the Difference Between Dry and Wet Measuring Cups?
Dry ingredients like sugar, flour, baking powder, and oats are measured using dry measuring cups.
Liquid ingredients like milk, water, and oil are measured using liquid measuring cups, which usually come in plastic or glass.
When measuring dry ingredients, such as a cup of flour, use a flat edge, like that of a butter knife, to remove the excess ingredient from the top of the measuring cup to obtain exactly the correct measurement. You don’t want a heaping measurement when using dry ingredients!
Measure the liquid ingredient in a wet measuring cup, without spilling, to the level you need indicated on the inside or outside of the cup.
Both dry and wet measuring cups come in a large variety of sizes. Although that’s helpful, storing them can take up way too much room.
For the ultimate convenience, products like collapsible measuring cups are a lifesaver for those with small kitchens or less storage space.
Read on to find the best collapsible measuring cups for your needs.
Best Collapsible Measuring Cups for Dry Ingredients
LLCHB Measuring Cups and Spoons Set
These measuring cups and spoons set from LLCHB come in eight pieces – four measuring cups and four measuring spoons with sizes all engraved on them.
This set is made from high food-grade silicone, which is BPA-free and non-toxic. It’s highly temperature resistant, so it can be used with heated ingredients.
This tool has a detachable design to remove, store, and clean its parts easily. It’s also compact and portable, making it convenient for storage.
Pros:
- Built durably with sizes molded on them
- The cups collapse easily for simple storage
- Easy to read measurements; hence, you can measure ingredients accurately
Cons:
- Residue on the silicone surface may become moldy if not cleaned properly
Syncmarket Measuring Cups and Measuring Spoons Set
These Syncmarket measuring cups and spoons set will get you preparing food like a professional.
These measuring cups and spoons provide an accurate measurement of dry ingredients each time you cook or bake. The set of eight pieces is made of premium quality food-grade silicone, which is BPA-free and non-toxic.
You can easily put these into a dishwasher if you don’t want to hand wash them. The handles are also long enough to reach into even deep containers.
These are also simple to store: all you need to do is to collapse the cups. Sizes are clearly engraved on the insides of the devices even if you’re not wearing your glasses, and, finally, this product comes with a lifetime warranty.
Pros:
- Super cool measuring cups you can push out to make a full cup.
- Easy to clean and hold up very well
- Made of sturdy material that lasts for a long time.
Cons:
- If you give the collapsible measuring cups as a gift, ensure that it comes in a complete set.
Best Collapsible Measuring Cups for Wet Ingredients
Fawei Collapsible Silicone Measuring Cups
The Fawei collapsible silicone measuring cups come in four pieces to measure wet ingredients for cooking or baking. The measuring cups are collapsible making storage very easy and light.
This tool can be conveniently cleaned by either hand washing or putting it in a dishwasher. It comes with a storage ring to keep the cups together and organized.
These cups can also withstand heat up to 230 degrees. You can use them for liquids, sticky foodstuffs (like honey), solids, and powders.
Pros:
- Being collapsible cups, they can be easily put away without breaking or denting
- Are durable enough to withstand thorough cleaning in the dishwasher
- Collapses to save space in the kitchen drawer
Cons:
- Made of thin material and may not be long-lasting
Aqkilo Collapsible Measuring Cups and Measuring Spoon Set
The Aqkino collapsible measuring cups and spoons set is made of high-quality silicone which is made to last.
The cups can be easily placed in a dishwasher without cracking, bending, or melting. This set will also work with both hot and cold ingredients.
This set comes in eight colorful pieces – four measuring cups and four measuring spoons with engraved sizes to accurately measure ingredients. If you’re unhappy with the purchase, you can enjoy a money-back guarantee.
Pros:
- Wonderful pieces of measuring cups and spoons, although they are a bit bulky
- Collapsible cups that you can keep easily in your kitchen drawer
- Perfect to bring when camping or traveling
Cons:
- Not intended for dry ingredients as it may be difficult to clean
Best Collapsible Measuring Cup Sets for Both Dry and Wet Ingredients
Ingeniuso Measuring Spoons and Collapsible Measuring Cups Set for Liquid & Dry Food
Let these collapsible measuring cups set measure BOTH the solid and liquid ingredients!
Be it for flour, sugar, oils, spices, and liquids, these cups are collapsible, portable, and travel friendly. You can unfold, measure, pour, and clean these simply and easily.
Use the collapsible cups to measure both the wet and dry ingredients during your next baking spree. Then, store them easily in the kitchen or in the RV or even in your backpack with your camping equipment!
As these are made from BPA-free food-grade silicone, the measuring cups are safe and easy to use. Just wash with hot water and soap.
Pros:
- Super cute measuring cups where you can pop out and lay flat for easy storage.
- It’s very convenient for constant bakers.
- Comes compact and in brilliant colors.
Cons:
- If not well-cleaned, the measuring cups and spoons can grow mold.
Kaptron Tools Spoons and Collapsible Measuring Cups
The Kaptron spoons and collapsible measuring cups can provide accurate measurements of your ingredients so you can cook like a professional.
The measuring set of eight pieces is super durable and built to last. It’s very easy to clean, as you can place it safely in a dishwasher.
The handles on this set are very strong, so they won’t snap when you measure dry or liquid ingredients. And since they’re compact and collapsible, it’s easier to find space for them in your kitchen.
Each piece has the size engraved clearly for proper measurements. This product also comes with a lifetime warranty.
Pros:
- Comes in cute, colorful cups and spoons, and very practical
- Ingeniously collapse; hence, it doesn’t take much space in your kitchen
- Excellent measurements even if these are collapsible
Cons:
- Collapsible cups break down with holes in the creases
ADfreemall Collapsible Measuring Cups and Spoons Set
This collapsible measuring cup and spoon set will never take much space in your kitchen.
You can rely on the exact measurement with its engraved sizes on the tools. The set comes in eight pieces for you to accurately measure a variety of dry and wet ingredients.
The ADfreemall is made of high-quality food-grade silicone, so it’s non-stick and easy to clean. The measuring cups and spoons set are useful in your kitchen or when traveling.
Pros:
- Made with quality materials and is a great space saver in the kitchen
- The top rim is sturdy and can be used accurately
- Can be safely placed and cleaned in the dishwasher
Cons:
- Need to check if the product comes in a complete set of collapsible measuring cups and spoons
HINMAY Collapsible Silicone Measuring Cups and Spoons Set
The Hinmay collapsible measuring cups and spoons are made of high-quality food-grade silicone materials. The cups are expandable during use but collapse for easy storage.
You can actually get accurate measurements when using this tool. It’s perfect for your home kitchen or food business, such as a coffee shop, bakery, or restaurant.
Take this set along outdoors for DIY cooking on the grill or at the campsite. It’s easy to clean and safe to put in a dishwasher. The whole set comes with a 100% customer satisfaction promise.
Pros:
- Collapsible making it easier to use and clean
- Not bulky and just enough to keep in the kitchen drawer
- Great colored measuring cups and spoons you must have in your kitchen.
Cons:
- Not durable enough to last many years of usage.
SOLIFEGOBLE Collapsible Measuring Cups and Spoons
These collapsible measuring cups and spoons are made from premium food-grade silicone, which is safe for your family.
This set comes in eight pieces – four measuring cups and four measuring spoons. It’s conveniently designed for accurate measurements of your dry or wet ingredients.
The handles are long enough to scoop from deep containers. It comes with key rings for easy storage and organizing. And as it’s non-stick, you can easily clean it by hand washing or putting it in a dishwasher.
Pros:
- Measuring cups and spoons come in attractive colors you can use for cooking or baking.
- Collapsible you can easily store in your kitchen drawers
- Easy to clean once done with food preparation and cooking.
Cons:
- Unlike the measuring cups, the measuring spoons are not made of silicone
How to Measure Dry Ingredients in Measuring Cups
Dry measuring cups measure solid or dry ingredients. They are made of silicone, plastic, glass, or porcelain and are sold in sets. Standard sizes for the cups are one cup, ½ cup, 1/3 cup, and ¼ cup.
To measure a dry ingredient, you need a spoon or scoop to add the ingredient to your measuring cup. Use the back surface of a knife to level off the top and remove the excess from the cup.
Remember: brown sugar is the only dry ingredient that should be packed tightly into a measuring cup before adding it to your recipe.
How to Measure Liquid Ingredients in Measuring Cups
The best liquid measuring cups come in a variety of sizes and measuring units. The traditional measuring cup has 1/3 and ¼ marks, and also shows ounces and milliliters.
If you’re using a liquid measuring cup, fill it up to the measuring line with a little space above it, so you fill the cup without spilling the liquid.
To measure a liquid into the measuring cup, first place the cup on a flat surface. Then, add the liquid to the exact measurement. Let the liquid stay still without joggling it and check the level you desire. Never hold the measuring cup by your hand, or you’ll never get the correct measurement, as you can’t hold your hand completely still and level.
Conclusion
These collapsible cups and sets are considered to be the best on the market today. Do your research and choose the best set for you and your family.
The wide range of choices will suit everyone who cooks, whether they are professional chefs or just learning their way around the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between measuring wet and dry ingredients?
To measure flour, sugar, baking powder, nuts, and berries, you need to use dry measuring cups. To ensure you have an accurate level of dry ingredients, use the flat edge of a kitchen knife to level it off.
For ingredients like milk, water, and cooking oil, you can use liquid measuring cups.
Why do you add wet and dry ingredients separately when baking?
Liquid ingredients must always be mixed separately from the dry ingredients to ensure you have the right measurements to make your recipe successful.
Dry ingredients must be mixed separately to allow the raising of ingredients, sugar, spices, etc. for an even batter.
By adding wet and dry ingredients separately, you mix the dough properly and obtain the best results.
Can I measure wet and dry ingredients in the same measuring cups?
The measuring cups you’re using can measure wet and dry ingredients separately.
There are measuring cups intended for only dry ingredients for accurate measurements. Use it when you want to measure flour, as this is the most common ingredient that is mismeasured.
You can also use dry measuring cups for peanut butter, yogurt, or applesauce, even if the ingredient is sticky. Just add nonstick cooking spray to the inside the measuring cups to prevent your ingredient from sticking. That simple step will also make for easier cleaning of the cups.
Wet ingredients must be measured in liquid measuring cups, which can come in glass or plastic.
Additional Resources
- YouTube: Is It Bad to Use Liquid Measuring Cups to Measure Dry Ingredients?
- SeriousEats: How to Measure Your Wet and Dry Ingredients Most Accurately
Image credit via Flickr: “Measuring cups.” (CC BY 2.0) by mymeenalife
Rhonda grew up with parents who gardened, hunted, fished, canned, and preserved food. Her mother was a professional cook and Rhonda credits her teaching everything from how to make homemade biscuits and gravy to what kind of meals to serve for different occasions. In the kitchen, Rhonda uses a mix of old-fashioned country cooking and up-to-date fads in the kitchen, often experimenting with replacing higher-calorie or fat ingredients with healthier options that still retain the delicious flavors of the originals.