For many inexperienced bakers, measuring flour in cups seems like the only way to do it. Measuring cups are widely available and they are used in most recipes. The truth is that measuring flour in grams is a more accurate and consistent method. Let’s explore the reasons why, and how you can make the switch to measuring flour in grams.
First of all, it’s important to understand that measuring flour in cups can be quite imprecise. Flour can be easily compressed or aerated, leading to fluctuations in the amount of flour you actually measure. For example, if you scoop a cup out of a bag of flour, you might end up with more flour than if you spoon the flour gently into the cup. Similarly, if you pack the flour into the cup you’ll end up with a denser cup of flour than if you pour it in. These variations can have a big impact on the outcome of your baking.
Measuring flour in grams takes all of these variables out of the equation. A gram is a unit of weight, and it’s a universal measurement that doesn’t depend on the size or shape of your measuring tool. So, if a recipe calls for 500 grams of flour, you know that you need exactly that amount, no matter what measuring cup or spoon you use. This level of accuracy can make a big difference in the quality of your baked goods.
We recommend milling your own flour so it is always fresh when you need it. If you want to mill your own fresh flour then you will need a good grain mill. We recommend using the Mockmill 100 Stone Grain Mill which you can buy right here on our website!
Another reason why measuring flour in grams is better than measuring in cups is that it’s more consistent. Flours from different grains vary in density, which means that a cup of one type of flour might weigh more or less than a cup of another type of flour. This can be a problem when it comes to recipes that require precise measurements, such as cake or pastry recipes. Measuring flour in grams ensures that you’re always using the right amount of flour, no matter what type of flour you’re using.
When using a grain mill to make flour from whole wheat berries, the grams of flour produced will be equal to the grams of whole wheat berries used. This means that if you put 230 grams of whole wheat berries in your grain mill, you’ll get 230 grams of freshly ground flour out. For example, 1-1/3 cups of Spelt berries will usually produce 2 cups of flour but they both equal 230 grams. And this changes depending on which grain you are milling. So, if you are measuring in cups there can be a big difference in volume, but if you are measuring in grams then it will always be exactly the same. By using grams, you can ensure consistency and avoid discrepancies that can arise when measuring by volume.
Making the switch to measuring flour in grams might seem daunting, but it’s actually quite simple. All you need is a digital kitchen scale and the appropriate conversion factor. One cup of all-purpose flour, for example, weighs approximately 125 grams. You can easily find conversion charts online for other types of flour as well. You will also need to buy a kitchen scale and there are lots of inexpensive kitchen scales that you can buy. Here are a couple that we like at Amazon.com:
 |
 |
Once you have your digital scale and conversion factor, simply place your bowl on the scale and tare it (which means resetting it to zero). You tare it with the bowl on the scale so you are only measuring the grain inside the bowl and not the bowl itself. So, with the bowl on the scale it reads zero and then you will add the flour or grain until you reach the desired weight. This method might take a little bit longer than using measuring cups, but the extra time is worth it for the improved accuracy and consistency of your baking.
In conclusion, measuring flour in grams is a more accurate and consistent method than measuring in cups. By eliminating variables like compressing and aerating, measuring flour in grams ensures that you’re using the exact amount of flour called for in a recipe. Additionally, measuring in grams is a universal measurement that doesn’t depend on the type of flour you’re using. Making the switch to measuring in grams might take a little bit of practice, but it’s a simple change that can make a big difference in the quality of your baked goods. So, the next time you’re in the kitchen, grab your kitchen scale and give it a try!
