How it's calculated
cups = lbs × k (k = cups per pound of the ingredient)
lbs = pounds, cups = US cups, k = ingredient-specific cups per pound (from its density). Reverse: lbs = cups ÷ k.
Common values
| Ingredient | 1 lb in cups |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3.63 |
| Granulated sugar | 2.27 |
| Butter | 2.00 |
| Brown sugar (packed) | 2.10 |
| Water | 1.92 |
Common questions
How many cups are in a pound of flour?
About 3.63 cups of all-purpose flour, since flour is light and fluffy. Heavier ingredients like sugar give fewer cups per pound.
Why does the answer change with the ingredient?
Cups measure volume and pounds measure weight, so the link between them depends on density. Butter is dense (2 cups per pound) while flour is airy.