How to use the Recipe Calculator
- Enter the recipe's original and desired servings.
- Enter one ingredient amount and its measurement unit.
- Apply the multiplier to each remaining ingredient, then use practical kitchen rounding.
How the calculation works
New amount = original amount × desired servings ÷ original servingsThe desired-to-original serving ratio is applied to one ingredient amount. Repeat the calculation for each ingredient using the same multiplier.
Example calculation
Scaling a four-serving recipe to ten servings uses a 2.5× multiplier. An ingredient listed as 2 cups becomes 5 cups.
How to interpret the result
Straight scaling works well for many ingredients, but seasoning, leavening, pan size, and cooking time may not scale perfectly linearly.
Notes and assumptions
- Original and desired serving counts use the same serving definition.
- Ingredient amounts scale linearly.
- The calculator does not convert between different measurement units.
Common questions
Recipe Calculator questions
How do I double a recipe?
Set desired servings to twice the original servings; every ingredient receives a 2× multiplier.
Does cooking time double too?
Not necessarily. Cooking time depends on food depth, equipment, and temperature.
Can I scale down a recipe?
Yes. A smaller desired serving count produces a multiplier below one.