Tablespoon to mL Converter

Understanding Tablespoon Measurements

The tablespoon is a kitchen workhorse measurement, bridging the gap between teaspoons and cups. One US tablespoon equals approximately 14.787 mL, which is exactly 3 teaspoons or half a fluid ounce. Tablespoons are used for measuring oils, sauces, butter, spices in larger quantities, and any ingredient too large for a teaspoon but too small for a cup.

Be aware that tablespoon sizes vary internationally. A US tablespoon is 14.787 mL, an Australian (metric) tablespoon is 20 mL, and a UK tablespoon is approximately 17.758 mL. This converter uses the US tablespoon standard but converts to all common volume units instantly.

Common Tablespoon Conversions

The most frequently needed conversions: 1 US tablespoon = 14.787 mL, 1 tablespoon = 3 teaspoons, 2 tablespoons = 1 fluid ounce, 16 tablespoons = 1 US cup. For butter, 1 tablespoon equals roughly 14 grams or half an ounce. These quick references cover most everyday cooking needs.

Tablespoons and Cups

There are exactly 16 US tablespoons in one US cup. This makes fractional cup measurements easy to express in tablespoons: a quarter cup is 4 tablespoons, a third cup is about 5 and a third tablespoons, and half a cup is 8 tablespoons. When a recipe calls for an odd fraction of a cup, switching to tablespoons often makes measuring more practical.

US vs. Metric vs. UK Tablespoons

The US tablespoon (14.787 mL) is the most commonly referenced in American and Canadian recipes. The Australian metric tablespoon (20 mL) is about 35% larger. The UK tablespoon (17.758 mL) falls in between. When converting recipes between countries, this difference can affect the outcome, especially for concentrated ingredients like vanilla extract, salt, or baking powder.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many mL are in a tablespoon?

One US tablespoon equals approximately 14.787 mL. A metric tablespoon, used in Australia and some other countries, is exactly 20 mL. A UK tablespoon is approximately 17.758 mL. This converter uses the US tablespoon (14.787 mL), which is the most common standard in American recipes.

How many tablespoons are in a cup?

There are 16 US tablespoons in one US cup. This means a quarter cup is 4 tablespoons, a third cup is about 5.33 tablespoons, and half a cup is 8 tablespoons. These conversions are essential for scaling recipes up or down.

How many teaspoons are in a tablespoon?

There are 3 US teaspoons in one US tablespoon. This means half a tablespoon is 1.5 teaspoons. This is one of the most commonly needed kitchen conversions when a recipe calls for a fraction of a tablespoon.

How many tablespoons are in a fluid ounce?

There are 2 US tablespoons in one US fluid ounce. This means 1 tablespoon is half a fluid ounce (approximately 14.79 mL). For example, a standard shot glass of 1.5 fluid ounces holds 3 tablespoons.

What is the difference between a US and metric tablespoon?

A US tablespoon is approximately 14.787 mL, while a metric tablespoon (used in Australia, for example) is exactly 20 mL. The difference is significant — a metric tablespoon is about 35% larger than a US one. When following Australian or British recipes, this distinction matters for accuracy.