What is Cups to mL Converter?

This tool converts US cups to milliliters, making it easy to follow international recipes or use metric measuring tools. Cups are standard in American kitchens, but most of the world uses milliliters for liquid ingredients.

The Conversion Factor

One US cup equals 236.588 mL. American recipes often round to 240 mL for convenience. This converter uses the precise value for accuracy.

Cup Variations Matter

Not all cups are equal:

US cup: 236.6 mL (this converter)
Metric cup: 250 mL (used in Australia, Canada)
UK cup: 284 mL (rarely used today)
Japanese cup: 200 mL

Who Benefits?

International bakers: Using American recipes with metric tools
Precision bakers: Converting to mL for more accurate measuring
Meal preppers: Calculating nutrition with metric quantities
Students: Learning both measurement systems

Privacy

All calculations happen in your browser. No data is stored or shared.

How to Use

Converting cups to milliliters is straightforward:

Enter the cup amount (decimals work for fractions: 0.5 = ½ cup)
See the mL result instantly displayed
Copy the result if needed for your recipe

Entering Fractions

For common cooking fractions, use decimals:

¼ cup = 0.25
⅓ cup = 0.33
½ cup = 0.5
⅔ cup = 0.67
¾ cup = 0.75

Fraction Reference Chart

¼ cup = 59 mL
⅓ cup = 79 mL
½ cup = 118 mL
⅔ cup = 158 mL
¾ cup = 177 mL
1 cup = 237 mL

Practical Tip

When scaling recipes, convert all measurements first, then adjust for ingredient densities if needed. Liquid ingredients convert directly; dry ingredients may need weight conversion for best results.

Features

Precise Conversion

Uses the exact conversion factor of 236.588 mL per US cup. Accurate enough for both everyday cooking and precise baking.

Instant Calculation

Results appear as you type. No waiting or button clicking required.

Fraction-Friendly

Enter decimal equivalents for common cooking fractions. The reference table shows pre-calculated fractional cups.

Reference Table

Quick reference for common cup measurements:

¼ cup = 59 mL
½ cup = 118 mL
¾ cup = 177 mL
1 cup = 237 mL
2 cups = 473 mL

Copy Button

Quickly copy converted values for your digital recipe collection or shopping list.

Additional Units

Switch to other volume units using the dropdown menus if your recipe requires different measurements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many mL is 1 cup?

One US cup equals 236.6 mL. Many American products round this to 240 mL for convenience.

How many mL is half a cup?

Half a US cup equals 118 mL. This is often rounded to 120 mL in recipes.

Is a metric cup the same as a US cup?

No. A US cup is 236.6 mL, while a metric cup (used in Australia and some other countries) is exactly 250 mL. The difference can affect baking results.

Should I use 236 mL or 240 mL for 1 cup?

The precise value is 236.6 mL. However, 240 mL is commonly used in recipes for simpler math. For most cooking, either works. For precise baking, stick with 237 mL.

How do I measure a cup without a measuring cup?

If you have metric measuring tools: 240 mL ≈ 1 cup. You can also use 16 tablespoons = 1 cup, or 8 fluid ounces = 1 cup.

Why do bakers prefer grams over cups?

Cups measure volume, but ingredients like flour can vary in density based on how they're scooped. Weight measurements (grams) are consistent regardless of how ingredients are packed, leading to more reliable results.

Cups to mL