The Best Measuring Spoons of 2023, According to a Chef

Apr 26, 2024

For home baking projects, an accurate set of measuring spoons makes all the difference.

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Food and Wine / David Hattan

There’s one hard truth about baking: It’s a science. Paying close attention to measurements, mixing time, rest time, and oven temperature will either make or break your favorite sourdough recipe. As a former professional pastry chef, I can admit there have been more than a few times I’ve opened the oven door to an unexpected outcome, which is why I’m now very careful to measure out every single wet and dry ingredient.

Both sweet and savory baking projects require the right baking tools, including accurate measuring cups and spoons. Whether it's measuring out ingredients for your go-to easy cookie recipe or putting together a marinade for tomorrow’s chicken thigh recipe, a set of accurate, easy-to-maneuver measuring spoons is an essential tool for bakers of all skill levels.

With thorough research plus my pastry expertise, we’ve put together this list of the best measuring spoons for every baking project. From durable stainless steel sets to colorful and kid-friendly picks, these measuring cups will ensure you open the oven door with certainty.

Sur La Table

The slim profile on each spoon makes this set maneuverable for any sized container.

Since the spoons are all attached, it can be a hassle to detach the spoons every time you use them.

These rectangular measuring spoons are designed to easily fit into any sized spice jar in your spice rack. Each spoon has a deep bowl, yet unlike other rectangular options, ingredients won’t get trapped in these rounded, easy-release corners. The set includes a 1/8, 1/4, 1/2, and 1 teaspoon, plus a 1/2 and 1 tablespoon. These measuring spoons are made from durable stainless steel that won't bend or warp, and they have helpful, easy-to-read measurement markings etched into each bowl. The spoons nest and can be removed from the ring if you prefer not to carry around the whole bunch.

We like the angled rectangular shape of these spoons, as we find these to provide the most consistent accuracy for measuring out ingredients. Thanks to their slim profile and sturdy stainless steel construction, we recommend Sur La Table's measuring spoons as our top overall pick.

Price at time of publish: $22

Amazon

We love this set's long, comfortable handles plus their sturdy stainless steel construction.

The fixed ring design can make selecting and using the desired spoon size difficult.

Complete with six measurement sizes from 1/8 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon, this comprehensive set was designed by the culinary experts at the Culinary Institute of America. Crafted for 18/10 stainless steel (which is anticorrosive so you don’t have to worry about measuring out vinegar or other acidic ingredients), these spoons are durable and have a nice weight without being bulky. Their longer-than-average handles have indentations along the top, making for easy maneuverability in narrow containers, and they also have straight edges that double as levelers.

A bonus: These spoons have both the teaspoon and tablespoon volume and the metric equivalent printed on their handle, which means if you’re measuring out a liquid that’s called for in milliliters, you won’t have to look up a conversion.

Price at the time of publish: $10

Amazon

These spoons are heavier than most, so along with being sturdy and comfortable to hold, they also feel luxurious.

The tablespoon may be too large to fit into narrow containers such as spice jars.

All-Clad is known for its superior stainless steel cookware, and these stainless steel measuring spoons are just as dependable and sturdy. Their rounded handles make for a comfortable grip and are complete with easy-to-read measurement etchings that will not fade or wear with time. This set of measuring spoons is a bit heavier than other options on our list, but we've found this to be a good thing for keeping a steady hand, especially when measuring out tiny increments of ingredients.

It’s worth noting that this set does not come with a ring but rather a beaded chain. By keeping the spoons chained together, it’s easy to use them one at a time while keeping the whole set connected (and without losing any spoons in your kitchen drawer). However, if you prefer a ring, you can easily attach one of your own through the handles’ large loopholes.

Price at time of publish: $30

Amazon

These spoons won’t rust or bend no matter how much pressure you apply.

Because they are heavy-duty, scooping with these measuring implements can be a bit cumbersome.

With a significant weight, these measuring spoons feel nice in the hand and hold up to other Le Creuset-quality cookware items. The set comes with five measurements — 1/8 teaspoon, 1/4 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, and 1 tablespoon — all stamped and easy to read. They are specifically designed with handles welded at an angle to support the bowl when resting flat on a surface, so if you’re measuring out a dry ingredient and put the spoon down, these spoons won’t spill or wobble.

Unlike other flimsy spoons, these heavy-gauge scoopers also won’t bend or warp. Having measuring spoons that do not lose their shape over time makes for accurate measurements, as scooping with a rigid spoon ensures an even pack throughout your favorite mixing bowl. Because the rim of each spoon is rather thick, you may want to use a mini silicone spatula or other straight-edged bench scraper to ensure precise measuring.

Price at time of publish: $24

Amazon

Slim enough to fit into most narrow containers and without interior edges that might trap wet, sticky ingredients, these oval-shaped spoons are the best of both worlds.

The handles on these spoons are shorter than other options in this list, making it more difficult to reach ingredients at the bottom of containers.

These quality measuring spoons retain their shiny finish even after years of use. The shine is a visual plus, but this slick stainless steel finish also aids in quick release and easy cleanup for both dry and wet ingredients. Complete with five spoons, from 1/8 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon, this set has oval-shaped bowls for easy ingredient retrieval out of any container. These spoons also have curved handles that sit comfortably in the palm of your hand. Although not as long as some other options, the gently sloped handles act as a supportive stand, securing each spoon from tipping over when placed on the countertop.

While the narrow design of these spoons makes them more maneuverable when reaching into slim containers, pouring ingredients from the smallest spoons into your mixing bowl without spilling can be more difficult than with other round options.

Price at time of publish: $21

Amazon

The rubberized coating on the top half of these plastic spoons makes them more durable than some other plastic measuring spoons.

The raised measurements on each spoon can be difficult to read.

Constructed from dishwasher-safe, BPA-free plastic, these five measuring spoons are solid and will not bend or snap when scooping stubborn ingredients. Along with being lightweight and easy to clean, each spoon also has a rubber coating on the back half of its handle for a better grip. The set comes with 1/8 teaspoon, 1/4 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, and 1 tablespoon. The straight edge on the smaller spoons doubles as a leveler for improved accuracy when measuring dry ingredients.

The snap-shut ring makes a seamless loop once closed without being difficult to open, increasing the functionality of the set if you plan to keep all the spoons together. However, once stacked, these spoons will not remain nestled together and upright, so it’s best to store them on their side if you’re looking to maximize kitchen storage space.

Price at time of publish: $8

Crate & Barrel

Constructed with magnetic handles, you don’t have to hold the whole set while you scoop or clutter your utensil drawer when you put these spoons away.

The thick magnet embedded in the handle can make the spoons slightly uncomfortable to hold with repeated use.

If you find yourself fumbling around with the more traditional key-chain style set of measuring spoons, this magnetic bundle offers a great solution. Each spoon in this set has a nonslip magnetic handle that securely connects to the consecutive spoon, allowing all four spoons to nest. This unique design eliminates the need to juggle all the spoons at once and also ensures no spoon will get lost. Plus, the fact that the spoons stack in a singular unit once all connected helps to keep kitchen drawers organized and optimizes storage space.

Other than the magnetic handles, these spoons also have a few other features we like. Their deep, oval-shaped bowls allow for exact measurement and bubble-free packing of dry ingredients, and the measurements are engraved as well as printed on the handles, so they are easy to read without the risk of rubbing off over time.

Price at the time of publish: $12

Amazon

Along with adding a pop to your kitchen tools, because each spoon in this set is a different color they can be easier to identify and use, especially for little ones.

These spoons have shallower bowls than other options on our list, making accuracy in measurement slightly harder to obtain.

If you’re looking to diversify the color palette of your kitchen tools, this set of five multi-colored measuring spoons is lightweight and dishwasher-safe. The rainbow of hues in this set is fun and different from the majority of monotone options out there, but the range of colors also serves a functional purpose. Since no two spoon sizes are the same color, the set is effectively color-coded for accessibility. This easy-to-detect color system is especially handy for children or those with poor eyesight who want to grab and go without pulling out their glasses.

The spoons are attached with a simple, effective clip that can easily open if you want to remove just a single spoon. This design also makes for hassle-free use of a single spoon when the whole bundle is attached. Finally, in comparison to other plastic measuring implements, these spoons hold up surprisingly well to drops, resistant ingredients, and washes in hot water.

Price at time of publish: $17

Food52

Clear measurements, deep bowls, and a large ring make this set functional and stylish.

Pricier than most measuring spoon sets, this option is not for every budget.

This gorgeous 4-piece set proves that measuring cups can be both functional and stylish. Available in three finishes – black, brass, and stainless steel — these spoons are just as practical as they are pretty. All three options are constructed with stainless steel that is dishwasher-safe and will maintain its finish even with repeated use. Thick, easy-to-grip handles make for comfortable scooping, and the thinner rounded bowls smoothly measure ingredients. The spoons are designed to nest but don’t always stay stacked when placed in a drawer or on a surface, so we recommend hanging this set on a peg or hook instead.

These measuring spoons are attached by a large, elegant ring that makes them feel more like a sophisticated key chain rather than a kitchen tool. Tasteful, accurate, and durable, they make a lovely, practical gift for bakers or anyone who spends time in their kitchen.

Price at time of publish: $48

Amazon

With this single tool, you can measure five different spoon sizes, eliminating the need for a whole set of spoons.

It requires attention and detail to adjust this measuring tool.

With this tool, there’s no need to carry around a jangle of spoons. This all-in-one adjustable spoon measures ingredients from 1/4 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon within one adjustable bowl. It works with a simple slide forward or backward that shortens and lengthens the bowl’s interior for a variety of measurement sizes. Along with teaspoon and tablespoon markings, the tool also provides metric units of measurement for easy conversion. Its long, multi-size bowl is lean enough to tackle slimmer containers and accurately packs ingredients as long as it is set correctly to the desired size.

While in many ways this adjustable spoon simplifies the measurement process, adjusting the size adds an extra step when measuring. Because you have to pay careful attention when sliding the top piece to ensure accuracy, using this tool may increase time spent measuring and make the process more complicated if a recipe requires multiple ingredients in differing amounts. Please note, this tool is not dishwasher-safe.

Price at the time of publish: $9

There are generally two types of material used to craft measuring spoons: stainless steel and plastic, although you might see melamine replace plastic in some instances. While there are pros and cons to both materials, generally speaking, stainless steel sets will outlast plastic ones because the material can handle more pressure, stress, and use.

Plastic measuring spoons are usually much lighter in weight, making them more ergonomic for scooping and much more kid-friendly. Perhaps the most important spec to look for when considering the material is if the set is dishwasher-safe (every option in this list is dishwasher-safe unless otherwise noted in the product description). Handwashing measuring spoons can be a pain, getting the interior of each bowl clean (especially after measuring wet ingredients) can require extra effort — an option that can pop in the dishwasher is a huge plus.

While measuring spoon sets may come in several shapes — rectangular, oblong, round, etc. — there is no best shape for measuring small amounts. Opting for a rectangular or oblong spoon may allow you more maneuverability when scooping out of narrow containers such as spice jars (thinner, longer handles also help with this). However, some oblong or rectangular spoons have bowls with sharper corners, this can create air pockets when scooping dry ingredients. Always make sure the spoons in your set have curved interior corners.

Measuring spoon sets usually range between four and six measuring spoons. The four non-negotiable measurements a standard set should have are 1/4 teaspoon, 1/2 teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, and 1 tablespoon, as these are the most common units of measure. Having any extra sizes is generally unnecessary and can make using the spoons, especially when they’re bundled together on a ring, unwieldy.

As a former professional pastry chef, I have two in my kitchen drawer, but that’s just because I happened to acquire a double over the years. While I like having two sets on hand — one with six spoons and another with just the four core measurements — it's unnecessary. If you have one good set of measuring spoons, that’s truly all you need. Don’t forget you can always add to make larger amounts.

While you typically can’t use a liquid measuring cup for measurements smaller than 1/4 cup, there certainly are wet measuring spoons out there. They usually look like a miniature version of the beakers you might find in a science lab. However, these measuring tools are usually not necessary and they can take up a lot more storage space than their spoon counterparts.

If you plan on measuring out a lot of liquid ingredients and don’t want to invest in a whole separate set of measuring implements, opt for a round spoon set so you can easily scrape the sides of the bowl and ensure no remnants are left within the spoon.

Of course. Every ingredient has a weight equivalent to its measured volume. When weighing as opposed to measuring, you may get more accurate results if you have a quality kitchen scale. However, most recipes call for measurements in volume. This means that if you were to weigh out your recipe components, you would have to do a lot of research as to the exact weight equivalent for each ingredient. Remember, just because two ingredients are both dry, such as flour and baking powder, it does not mean they weigh the same.

Stella is a former professional pastry chef turned food writer with years of experience testing and researching all things food. Invested in discovering fun, new flavors, and the tools that help to make them. You can find her work in EdibleLA, the Strategist, Apartment Therapy, and the Kitchn.