November 25, 2013 - 9:35am
Guessing flour weights for unknown recipes
Let's say I have a recipe for a quick bread that, like many I discover, is listed using volume measures. What are good starting points for converting the flour measures to weights? I know I will need to test and refine from there, but I am thinking, based on reading and given the rather wide range of weights I see cited, keeping it simple with something like (each 1 cup):
- AP/Bread/WW = 4.5 oz
- Cake/Rye = 4 oz
Or is there a better way to start?
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I reference frequently to convert volumes to weights. I further convert US weights to metric. I find metric much easier to use.
http://www.kingarthurflour.com/recipe/master-weight-chart.html
David G
Hi,
The actual weight of a cup of flour is not all that helpful in converting recipes. Invariably, you will use too little. More important is what the author and/or publisher intended.
You can get some clues. If they suggest you fluff up the flour, spoon it into a cup measure, then scrape off the excess, then you are probably looking at about 140 grams per "cup." (Yes, grams, while I still think in pounds for meats and cold cuts, metric is definitely the way to go for baking.)
If the book you are looking at makes no mention of how to get their particular idea of a cup of flour or if you are trying to convert an old family recipe, start at 150 grams.
In my experience, using these guidelines has proven simpler. However I'm not the one making your stuff, so start somewhere and blaze your own trail.
Cheers
I've converted nearly all my favorite recipes with volume measured ingredients to metric weights using KA prescribed weights, and I am delighted with the results, and the consistency of results.
David G
As the expression goes "there's more than one way," and disagreement is the basis of discussion.
I just put out what I do, not what someone else "should" do. If it works for you more power to you. I get full specs from my suppliers and know that a 237ml cup of my AP (for example) weighs 128g.) However, personally, I find that publishers tend to over convert.
Cheers