KitchenCalculator.app

FAQ & Baking Tips

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How accurate are the ingredient conversions?
Ingredient conversions (like Cups to Grams or TSP/TBSP to Grams/Ounces) are based on standard average densities, primarily using the US cup (236.59ml) as the base volume. Actual weights can vary slightly depending on the brand, how the ingredient is packed (e.g., flour), humidity, etc. For precise baking, using a kitchen scale is always recommended. Our conversions provide a very good estimate for most home cooking needs.
What's the difference between Cup (US) and Cup (Metric) in conversions?
A US Legal Cup is technically 240ml, but common kitchen measuring cups in the US are typically closer to 236.59ml – this calculator uses **236.59ml** as "Cup (US)". A Metric Cup is standardized at **250ml**. When converting ingredients between cups and grams/ounces, the calculator uses the appropriate volume (US or Metric) combined with the ingredient's density (which is stored based on grams per US cup).
Why do TSP/TBSP to Gram/Ounce conversions require selecting an ingredient first?
Teaspoons (TSP) and Tablespoons (TBSP) are units of *volume*. Grams (g) and Ounces (oz) are units of *weight*. To convert between volume and weight, you need to know the *density* of the specific substance (how much a certain volume of it weighs). Selecting an ingredient tells the calculator which density to use for the conversion.
What Gas Mark conversions are available?
The calculator can convert Gas Mark values to Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F). Conversions are based on standard accepted approximate equivalents, as Gas Marks don't have a perfectly linear relationship with °C/°F.
How does the C/CE button work?
The "C/CE" button has two functions:
  • CE (Clear Entry): If you've started typing a number or pressed an operator, pressing CE will clear only the *current entry* on the display, allowing you to correct a mistake without losing the rest of your calculation.
  • AC (All Clear): If the display shows '0' and no calculation is in progress, pressing the button (now labeled AC) will clear everything, including the first operand and the selected operator, effectively resetting the calculator state (but keeping history and memory). Pressing it while an error is displayed also acts as AC.
Can I save my calculation history and memory?
Yes! Your calculation history and the value stored in memory (MC/MR/M+/M-) are automatically saved in your browser's local storage. They will persist even if you close the tab or browser, unless you manually clear your browser's data for this site. You can clear the history or memory manually via the Settings overlay.
How do I use the Memory (M+, M-, MR, MC) buttons?
  • MC (Memory Clear): Resets the memory to 0 and clears any stored unit.
  • MR (Memory Recall): Displays the number and unit currently stored in memory.
  • M+ (Memory Add): Adds the number currently on the display to the value in memory. If memory is empty, it stores the current display value.
  • M- (Memory Subtract): Subtracts the number currently on the display from the value in memory. If memory is empty, it stores the negative of the current display value.
Note: Performing M+ or M- with incompatible units (e.g., adding grams to milliliters stored in memory) will result in an error. The memory operation won't proceed, and the memory value won't change.
How do I recall a result from the history?
Simply click or tap on an entry in the history display area (top right of the calculator). The result value and its unit will be loaded onto the main display, ready for further calculations.
How do I change settings like theme or decimal places?
Click the gear icon () located in the top row of the calculator, next to the history display. This will open the Settings overlay where you can adjust the color theme, number of decimal places displayed, and clear history/memory.
Is the calculator free to use?
Yes, KitchenCalculator.app is completely free to use. It is supported by advertisements displayed on the site.

Baking Tips & Tricks

  1. Measure Flour Correctly: Don't scoop! Fluff, spoon lightly into the cup, level off. Or use weight (~120g/US cup for AP flour).
  2. Room Temp Ingredients: Butter, eggs, dairy incorporate better for cakes/cookies.
  3. Don't Overmix: Mix *just until* combined for tender results in quick breads/cakes.
  4. Oven Thermometer: Ensures accurate temperature.
  5. Read Recipe First: Avoid surprises!
  6. Prep Pans: Grease/flour or use parchment.
  7. Cream Butter & Sugar: Beat until light/fluffy (3-5 min) for air incorporation.
  8. Chill Cookie Dough: Reduces spreading.
  9. Leaveners: Know the difference between baking soda (needs acid) and baking powder (complete).
  10. Cool Properly: Cool in pan briefly, then fully on a wire rack.
  11. Kitchen Scale is King: For baking precision, weight is better than volume. Use the calculator's conversions!
  12. Parchment Paper Power: Prevents sticking, aids cleanup, promotes even browning.
  13. Resist Opening Oven Door: Temperature drops affect baking. Use the light.
  14. Test Doneness Correctly: Use visual cues and physical tests (toothpick/spring-back).
  15. Check Leavener Freshness: Test powder in hot water, soda in vinegar.
  16. Scrape the Bowl: Ensures even mixing.
  17. Dark Pans Bake Faster: Reduce oven temp by ~25°F (15°C).
  18. Yeast Dough Needs Time: Don't rush the rise in a warm place.
  19. Sift for Smoothness: Removes lumps for delicate items/frostings.
  20. Don't Skip Salt: Enhances flavor, controls yeast. Essential even in sweet recipes.