Measures, portions and substitutions
Use recipe portions and metric measures with confidence.
Changing portions
The plus and minus controls change ingredient amounts and recognised ingredient measurements in the method. Equivalent amounts, such as cups and grams, change together. Unmeasured garnishes stay as written.
Metric measures
When the source supplies grams or millilitres, use that measure. Other weights convert to grams and liquid cups to millilitres. Dry ingredients keep cups or spoons unless a reliable weight is available. A cup of flour and a cup of oil do not weigh the same.
Pan sizes and cooking times
Changing portions does not change oven temperatures, pan dimensions or timers. A larger batch may need extra pans or cooking in batches. Check the method and doneness before serving.
Substitutions
Use recipe-specific alternatives where supplied. A substitution can change texture, liquid balance and the ingredients someone needs to avoid. The cooking helpers include source-linked general substitution guidance. Recheck product labels after any change.