Measure flour without packing it into the cup

When a recipe uses cup measures, follow its measuring method so the flour amount does not change with how firmly you scoop.

1. Check whether the recipe also gives a flour weight. If it does, using that stated weight avoids guessing a conversion from a different recipe publisher.
2. If measuring by volume, use the cup standard required by the recipe and a dry measuring cup with a level rim. Loosen the flour gently before filling.
3. Spoon flour into the cup without pressing or shaking it down, then sweep the excess level. Do not use an ordinary drinking mug as an equivalent measure.

Follow any specific instruction about sifting before or after measuring. Note the method beside your saved recipe, so a later attempt repeats the same measurement rather than introducing an unnoticed change.