Do they use measuring cups in Europe?

Beyond Cups and Spoons: The European Approach to Baking

The familiar sight of measuring cups and spoons, a staple in many North American kitchens, is noticeably less prevalent in European baking. While not entirely absent, their use is significantly less common than the precise method favored across the continent: weighing ingredients.

The reason for this difference boils down to accuracy and consistency. European baking, renowned for its meticulousness and reliably delicious results, relies heavily on the metric system, specifically grams, for measuring dry ingredients like flour, sugar, and baking powder. This contrasts sharply with the volume-based measurements used in many North American recipes, where cups, tablespoons, and teaspoons reign supreme.

Why the preference for weight over volume? The answer is simple: density. The volume a cup of flour occupies can vary significantly depending on how finely it’s milled, how it’s stored, and even the level of humidity in the air. A scooped cup of flour might be loosely packed, tightly packed, or somewhere in between, leading to inconsistencies in the final product. Using grams, however, eliminates this variable. One gram of flour is always one gram of flour, regardless of its packing density or environmental conditions.

This emphasis on precision isn’t just a matter of personal preference; it’s crucial for achieving reliable results in baking. European recipes, whether for delicate pastries or hearty breads, are often formulated with gram measurements to ensure that each batch turns out as intended. This is particularly important for professional bakers and pastry chefs who need to maintain consistent quality across large production runs.

While you might find some European recipes that utilize volume measurements, particularly older ones or those targeting a wider audience, the norm remains the use of a kitchen scale and gram measurements. This commitment to precision is a hallmark of European baking, contributing to its reputation for quality and consistency. So, the next time you’re tackling a European baking recipe, ditch the measuring cups and embrace the accuracy of the gram. Your baked goods will thank you.