How to Convert Teaspoons to Tablespoons
Teaspoons and tablespoons are volume measurements used almost exclusively in cooking and baking. The relationship is simple: 3 teaspoons = 1 tablespoon. But when scaling recipes up or down, getting this conversion right makes a real difference in your results.
The Conversion Formula
Tablespoons = Teaspoons ÷ 3
Going the other direction:
Teaspoons = Tablespoons × 3
Step-by-Step Example
A recipe calls for 9 teaspoons of sugar but you only have a tablespoon measure. How many tablespoons is that?
- 9 ÷ 3 = 3 tablespoons
Reference Table
| Teaspoons | Tablespoons | Cups |
|---|---|---|
| 1 tsp | ⅓ tbsp | — |
| 3 tsp | 1 tbsp | — |
| 6 tsp | 2 tbsp | ⅛ cup |
| 12 tsp | 4 tbsp | ¼ cup |
| 24 tsp | 8 tbsp | ½ cup |
| 48 tsp | 16 tbsp | 1 cup |
Common Cooking Conversions
- ¼ teaspoon = smallest standard measuring spoon; often used for spices and baking soda
- 1 teaspoon = standard dose for extracts, salt, baking powder
- 1 tablespoon = butter (for sautéing), vinegar in dressings, soy sauce in marinades
Metric Equivalents
- 1 teaspoon (US) ≈ 4.93 mL
- 1 tablespoon (US) ≈ 14.79 mL
When cooking from international recipes, note that UK and Australian tablespoons are 15 mL and 20 mL respectively, slightly different from the US 14.79 mL.
Use our teaspoons-to-tablespoons calculator to scale any recipe instantly.