How to Convert Temperatures from Fahrenheit to Celsius

Part of my Baking Basics series: Here's how to convert temperatures you see in recipes from Fahrenheit to Celsius (or vice versa) – we talk about the formula and math, as well as a quick tip using your thermometer!

The back of a white ThemoWorks ChefAlarm showing the Celsius and Fahrenheit conversion button

Just like I couldn't possibly explain why the United States doesn't use metric measurements for ingredients, we also don't use Celsius temperature scale.

I can't tell you how many times I've been in conversation with someone, not realizing their not American, and heard them say something like, “It was so hot! I think it was 32 degrees that day” to which I stare blankly wondering why they would think snow was hot.

Ding ding ding! It's because they're talking about 32 degrees Celsius. [facepalm]

I know non-US readers must get frustrated reading my recipes in Fahrenheit, so I wanted to shed a little light on the conversion formula and provide some of the most frequently used temperatures in an easy-to-reference chart.

The formula for converting from Fahrenheit to Celsius

The temperature conversion from Fahrenheit to Celsius isn't as difficult as you might think!

(°F − 32) × 5 / 9 = °C

I know, I know – math. But here's the conversion to Celsius spelled out in steps:

Subtract 32 from the °F temperature
Multiply this number by 5
Divide that number by 9

Example of the temperature conversion formula in action:

(350°F − 32) × 5 / 9 = 176°C

Conversely, if you are looking to convert from Celsius to Fahrenheit:

(°C × 9 / 5) + 32 = °F

Frequently used temperature conversions

Fahrenheit (°F)	Celsius (°C)
300°F	149°C
325°F	163°C
350°F	177°C
375°F	191°C
400°F	204°C
425°F	218°C
450°F	232°C

Freezing and boiling points

It's worth noting the temperatures at which water freezes and boils in both Fahrenheit and Celsius as easy reference points.

Freezing point

Fahrenheit: 32°F
Celsius: 0°C

Boiling point

Fahrenheit: 212°F
Celsius: 100°C

Converting Fahrenheit to Celsius without math

Don't want to do the math while you're in the midst of trying to cook something that requires a digital thermometer? Check the different settings on your model – it might have a button to change your readings from Fahrenheit to Celsius in an instant. Boom! No math necessary.

That button is one of the many things I adore about my Thermoworks ChefAlarm.