The Importance of Accuracy: Grams vs. Cups
When it comes to baking, precision is often the difference between a perfect result and a culinary disaster. While many recipes still use cup measurements, modern bakers increasingly rely on grams for greater accuracy. This is especially true for ingredients like sugar, which can vary significantly in density depending on its type and how it's measured. A full, leveled cup of powdered sugar, for example, is much lighter than a full, leveled cup of granulated sugar. This article focuses on the specific measurement of how many cups of sugar is 39g, breaking it down by sugar type.
Granulated Sugar
Granulated white sugar is the most common sugar used in baking. The standard conversion is that one US cup of granulated sugar weighs approximately 200 grams. To find out how many cups are in 39g, we can use a simple calculation: $39 \text{g} / 200 \text{g} = 0.195$ cups. This is very close to 1/5 of a cup. A practical way to measure this would be to use a measuring spoon. Since 1 tablespoon is roughly 12.4 grams and 1 teaspoon is about 5 grams, 39g is approximately 3 tablespoons plus one teaspoon.
Powdered Sugar (Icing or Confectioners' Sugar)
Powdered sugar is much lighter and finer than granulated sugar. A cup of powdered sugar is approximately 100 grams, so 39g of powdered sugar would be closer to 1/3 of a cup. This is a more significant amount than with granulated sugar, highlighting why specifying the type of sugar is so crucial. A specific table from a baking resource suggests that 39g of powdered sugar is exactly 1/3 of a cup.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar's weight depends on whether it is packed or unpacked. When packed firmly into a cup, its density increases significantly. A cup of packed brown sugar can weigh up to 210 grams. Given this, 39g of packed brown sugar would be about $39 \text{g} / 210 \text{g} \approx 0.185$ cups, which is slightly less than 1/5 of a cup. The texture and moisture content of brown sugar make it less predictable for volume measurements, so a scale is particularly useful here.
Comparison Table: How Many Cups of Sugar is 39g?
| Sugar Type | Grams per 1 US Cup | 39g Conversion | Approximate Measurement | Practical Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Granulated White Sugar | ~200g | ~0.195 cups | Less than 1/5 cup | 3 tbsp + 1 tsp |
| Powdered (Icing) Sugar | ~100g | ~0.39 cups | Just under 1/2 cup, but specifically 1/3 cup | 1/3 cup measuring cup |
| Packed Brown Sugar | ~210g | ~0.185 cups | Less than 1/5 cup | 3 tbsp + 1 tsp |
Beyond the Calculator: Tips for Accurate Measuring
- Use a Digital Scale: This is the most accurate method. Simply tare the weight of your container and add the sugar until you reach 39g. This eliminates any variability caused by air pockets or different packing techniques.
- Measuring Spoons for Precision: For a small amount like 39g, using a set of standard measuring spoons is often more precise than using a cup measure. As noted above, 39g of granulated sugar is close to 3 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon.
- The Scoop and Sweep Method: When using a dry measuring cup for granulated or powdered sugar, fill the cup by scooping and then use a straight edge (like a knife or spatula) to sweep across the top. This ensures a level, accurate measurement.
- Pack Brown Sugar Correctly: For brown sugar, the recipe typically specifies whether it should be 'packed' or not. When it says 'packed,' press the sugar firmly into the measuring cup to ensure there are no air gaps.
Conclusion: The Final Word on 39g
Determining how many cups of sugar is 39g depends entirely on the type of sugar being used. For granulated sugar, it's roughly 1/5 of a cup, while for powdered sugar, it's almost 1/3 of a cup. The best way to ensure consistent and accurate results in your baking is to use a kitchen scale for all your dry ingredient measurements. This practice removes all guesswork and accounts for the varying densities of different sugar types. Whether you're a novice baker or a seasoned pro, understanding the nuances of weight versus volume can significantly improve your results.
Authoritative Source on Measurement
For more detailed information on kitchen conversions and ingredient weights, consult reputable culinary sources like Doves Farm, which provides extensive conversion charts.
