How to Convert mL to Cups (Cooking Measurements)
One US cup is about 237 mL. Learn how to convert millilitres to cups, a handy kitchen table, and why cup sizes differ between countries.
To convert millilitres to cups, divide by 236.6 for US cups (or 250 for metric cups). For example, 500 mL ÷ 236.6 ≈ 2.1 US cups. To reverse it, multiply cups by the same number.
The formula
- US cups = mL ÷ 236.588
- Metric cups = mL ÷ 250
Kitchen reference (US cups)
- 60 mL ≈ ¼ cup
- 120 mL ≈ ½ cup
- 240 mL ≈ 1 cup
- 480 mL ≈ 2 cups
- 1000 mL (1 L) ≈ 4.2 cups
Cup sizes vary
A "cup" is not universal: a US cup is 236.6 mL, a metric cup is 250 mL, and older UK recipes may use different measures. When a recipe matters, convert to millilitres for a precise, unambiguous amount.
Convert instantly
The unit converter handles mL, litres and other volume units with live two-way updates, all in your browser. Related: How to convert grams to ounces.