Teaspoons to Tablespoons Converter
Convert between teaspoons and tablespoons for accurate recipe measurements
Volume Converter
3 teaspoons = 1 tablespoon
1 tablespoon ≈ 14.79 ml
Conversion Results in Other Units
Formula: 3 teaspoons = 1 tablespoon (US standard)
Note: These conversions use US customary units. Metric measurements may vary.
Common Teaspoons to Tablespoons Conversions
| Teaspoons (tsp) | Tablespoons (tbsp) | Milliliters (ml) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tsp | 0.333 tbsp | 4.93 ml |
| 2 tsp | 0.667 tbsp | 9.86 ml |
| 3 tsp | 1 tbsp | 14.79 ml |
| 6 tsp | 2 tbsp | 29.57 ml |
| 9 tsp | 3 tbsp | 44.36 ml |
| 12 tsp | 4 tbsp | 59.15 ml |
Common Tablespoons to Teaspoons Conversions
| Tablespoons (tbsp) | Teaspoons (tsp) | Milliliters (ml) |
|---|---|---|
| 1/4 tbsp | 0.75 tsp | 3.70 ml |
| 1/2 tbsp | 1.5 tsp | 7.39 ml |
| 1 tbsp | 3 tsp | 14.79 ml |
| 2 tbsp | 6 tsp | 29.57 ml |
| 3 tbsp | 9 tsp | 44.36 ml |
| 4 tbsp | 12 tsp | 59.15 ml |
Quick Reference
Conversion Formulas
Teaspoons to Tablespoons:
tbsp = tsp ÷ 3
Tablespoons to Teaspoons:
tsp = tbsp × 3
Measuring Tips
Use proper measuring spoons for accuracy
Level off dry ingredients with a knife
Pour liquids at eye level
3 tsp = 1 tbsp exactly
Understanding Teaspoons and Tablespoons
What is a Teaspoon?
A teaspoon (tsp) is a unit of volume measurement commonly used in cooking and baking. In the United States, one teaspoon equals approximately 4.93 milliliters. It's the smallest standard measuring spoon and is essential for measuring small amounts of ingredients like spices, extracts, and leavening agents.
What is a Tablespoon?
A tablespoon (tbsp) is a larger measuring spoon used in cooking. In the US customary system, one tablespoon equals exactly 3 teaspoons or approximately 14.79 milliliters. It's commonly used for measuring liquids, oils, and larger quantities of dry ingredients.
Conversion Formula
3 teaspoons = 1 tablespoon
1 teaspoon = 0.333 tablespoon
The 3:1 ratio between tablespoons and teaspoons is exact and standardized in US cooking measurements. This simple conversion makes it easy to scale recipes or substitute measurements when you don't have the right measuring spoon available.
Practical Recipe Applications
🧂 Spices & Seasonings
Most spice measurements in recipes are given in teaspoons. Understanding the teaspoon-to-tablespoon conversion helps when you need to scale recipes up or down, or when substituting spice blends.
Example: A recipe calls for 6 teaspoons of paprika. That's exactly 2 tablespoons, making it easier to measure with fewer scoops.
🍪 Baking Precision
Baking requires precise measurements for ingredients like baking powder, baking soda, and vanilla extract. Converting between teaspoons and tablespoons ensures you add the correct amount for perfect results.
Example: Recipe needs 1.5 teaspoons of vanilla. That's 0.5 tablespoons, or half a tablespoon measure if you don't have a 1.5 tsp measure.
🥗 Salad Dressings
Homemade dressings often call for small amounts of ingredients like vinegar, honey, or mustard. Converting teaspoons to tablespoons helps you measure more efficiently and reduce cleanup.
Example: Dressing recipe needs 9 teaspoons of olive oil. That's 3 tablespoons, which is faster to measure with a larger spoon.
☕ Hot Beverages
When making coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, understanding teaspoon-to-tablespoon conversions helps you adjust strength and sweetness precisely to your taste preferences.
Example: Coffee recipe suggests 6 teaspoons of ground coffee. That's 2 tablespoons, which is easier to measure and more commonly used in coffee brewing.
Accurate Measuring Techniques
For Dry Ingredients
- ✓Spoon ingredient into measuring spoon (don't scoop)
- ✓Level off with a straight edge like a knife
- ✓Don't pack down unless recipe specifies
- ✓Keep measuring spoons dry and clean
For Liquid Ingredients
- ✓Place spoon on flat surface for accuracy
- ✓Pour slowly until liquid reaches the rim
- ✓Check measurement at eye level
- ✓Avoid shaking or tapping the spoon
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tablespoons are in 6 teaspoons?
6 teaspoons equal exactly 2 tablespoons. Since the conversion ratio is 3 teaspoons per tablespoon, you simply divide 6 by 3 to get 2 tablespoons.
What if I only have tablespoon measures?
You can measure fractions of a tablespoon. For example, 1 teaspoon = 1/3 tablespoon, and 2 teaspoons = 2/3 tablespoon. Some tablespoon measures have markings for 1/2 and 1/3 measurements to help with this.
Are teaspoons and tablespoons the same everywhere?
No, measurement sizes vary by country. A US teaspoon is about 4.93 ml, while a UK teaspoon is 5.92 ml. A US tablespoon is 14.79 ml, while an Australian tablespoon is 20 ml. Always check which measurement system your recipe uses.
Can I use regular eating spoons instead?
No, regular spoons vary greatly in size and aren't standardized. Using them will lead to inaccurate measurements and can affect your recipe's outcome, especially in baking where precision is crucial.
How do I measure sticky ingredients like honey?
Coat your measuring spoon with a thin layer of cooking spray or oil before measuring sticky ingredients. This allows the ingredient to slide out cleanly, ensuring you get the full amount in your recipe.
Why does precision matter in cooking?
While cooking is often forgiving, baking requires precise measurements because it involves chemical reactions. Too much or too little of ingredients like baking powder, salt, or leavening agents can significantly affect texture, rise, and flavor.
What's the easiest way to remember the conversion?
Remember "3 t's in a T" - 3 teaspoons (lowercase t) equal 1 Tablespoon (capital T). This simple mnemonic helps you quickly recall that you need 3 teaspoons to make 1 tablespoon.