Flour is measured in different ways in a recipe, and it makes a big difference as to its success or failure. At CraftyBaking.com we use the method of volume measurements with each recipe. In fact, we describe how to measure the flour with each recipe. We were the first since 2003: “Spoon flour into measuring cup and level to rim.” Others have followed. Make sure you use a measuring cup designed for solids.
There can be a lot of confusion as to whether you sift before or after measuring. A cup of flour sifted before measuring will weigh 20 to 30 percent less than a cup of flour sifted after measuring, making a huge impact on your finished recipe.
We use a fine mesh strainer as our sifting tool, but you can also use a sifter from the store. (Some recipes call for sifting the flour and dry ingredients during a mixing step.)
In case you forget, we indicate when to sift the flour with all of our recipes so you don't get confused; example with one of our recipes: “1 cup flour, sifted; spoon flour into measuring cup and level to rim and then sift.”
MEASURING
XX VOLUME OR WEIGHT FLOUR, SIFTED
A. By Volume: When a recipe calls for XX CUPS FLOUR, SIFTED CraftyBaking.com calls for sifting the flour AFTER measuring.
1. Sift the measured flour into a mixing bowl.
Action shot of sifting:
2. Use the flour in the recipe.
B. By Weight:
When a recipe calls for XX GRAMS OR OUNCES FLOUR, SIFTED CraftyBaking.com calls for sifting the flour AFTER weighing.
1. Weigh the flour.
NOTE: If using measuring cups, spoon the flour into the measuring cup and then level it to the rim.
2. Then sift it for use in the recipe.
XX CUPS SIFTED FLOUR – It can mean sift the flour INTO the measuring cup, and then level it to its rim
BUT, it can also mean to sift the flour onto a sheet of waxed paper, then, spoon that into the measuring cup and level it to its rim
SARAH SAYS: You need to know what the cookbook author's intention is.
NOTE: CraftyBaking.com will describe how to measure the flour with every recipe so you don't get confused. We have been doing this since 2003. We were the first.
Ingredient example with our recipes: “1 cup sifted flour; sift flour into measuring cup and level to rim” or “1 cup sifted flour; sift flour onto a piece of waxed paper, and then spoon into measuring cup and level to rim”
1. Place a piece of waxed paper on the counter with the measuring cup on top.
2. Sift the flour into the specified cup measuring cup.
3. Level off the flour evenly to the rim of the measuring cup with a knife. Use the measured flour in the recipe.
4. Place excess flour back into the cake flour container.
