Measuring sticky ingredients

Sticky ingredients need their own approach. A baking text says brown sugar should be packed tightly into the measuring cup, and when done correctly it holds its shape when removed. University of Illinois Extension adds that brown sugar should only be packed when the recipe calls for it.

Honey is listed by Illinois Extension among the liquids, such as oil and cream, that go in a clear liquid measuring cup. Very thick semi-liquids such as peanut butter and yogurt are too thick to measure accurately in a liquid cup, so a solid cup should be used.

Honey may crystallize as it sits, but a baking text notes it can be set in warm water or heated to melt the crystals.