Measurement Conversions for Reducing Recipes

In a world without refrigeration, or uncertain refrigeration, or not enough space in the refrigerator, or maybe when there are fewer people coming to dinner, whatever the reason, we may need to reduce the number of servings in a recipe.  Making the calculations can become a bit of a headache in normal times.  However, when things are stressful or you’re in a hurry, you really don’t want to make any mistakes.  So here’s a chart to help you make those conversions.

If the recipe calls for:	To reduce the recipe to half, i.e., 6 servings instead of 12:	To reduce the recipe to one-third, i.e., 4 servings instead of 12:	To reduce the recipe to one-fourth, i.e., 3 servings instead of 12:
2 cups	1 cup	2/3 cups	1/2 cup
1 ¾ cups	¾ cup + 2 T	½ cup + 1 T + 1 t	¼ cup + 3 T
1 2/3 cups	¾ cup + 1 1/3 T	½ cup + 2 t	3/8 cup + 2 t
1 ½ cups	¾ cup	½ cup	¼ cup + 2 T
1 1/3 cups	2/3 cup	1/3 cup + 2 T	1/3 cup
1 cup	½ cup	1/3 cup	¼ cup
¾ cup	1/3 cup + 2 t	¼ cup	3 T
2/3 cup	1/3 cup	3 ½ T	2 T + 2 t
½ cup	¼ cup	2 T + 2 t	2 T
1/3 cup	2 T + 2 t	1 T + 2 t	1 T + 1 t
¼ cup	2 T	1 T + 1 t	1 T
3 tablespoons	1 ½ T	1 T	2 1/4 t
2 tablespoons	1 T	2 t	1 ½ t
1 tablespoon	1 ½ t	1 t	¾ t
2 teaspoons	1 t	½ t + dash	½ t
1 teaspoon	½ t	¼ t + pinch	¼ t
½ teaspoon	¼ t	Scant ¼ t	1/8 t
¼ teaspoon	1/8 t	Dash	Pinch
1/8 teaspoon	Dash	Pinch

Reducing the number of servings isn’t just about the measurements for each ingredient. You might also need to change the sizes of pans and casserole dishes.  Try to maintain the same depth in the dish as the original recipe called for.  

You might also need to adjust the temperature somewhat.  This is especially true if you happen to use glass instead of metal.  If using glass, reduce the temperature by 25 degrees.  

Finally, your food may not take as long to bake or cook if you have decreased the amount of food you are preparing.  It may be ready substantially sooner.  Check carefully as it bakes.  

Links to related posts:

The Importance of Being Able to Alter Recipes
Cooking and Baking Equivalents and Substitutions  

9.11.22