Very simply put, ounces is a measurement of weight and fluid ounces is a measurement of volume. Because liquids and solids have much different densities we have arrived at this specific way of measuring them.
Weight is pretty easy to understand. But fluid ounces is a little harder to grasp. When measuring fl. oz. we are figuring out not the specific weight of a liquid, but how much space we need to take up with a liquid- a cup of milk or a quart of water or a liter of stock.
Bottom line is that ounces and fluid ounces are not interchangeable and you should read recipes carefully.
When a recipe calls for ounces it is asking for a specific weight. The absolute best way to achieve this is with a quality kitchen scale. Most baking recipes use ounces or grams and if your recipe asks for a weight, skip all other measuring devices and use a scale.
If a recipe asks for fluid ounces such as milk or water, it needs that specific volume (or how much space it will take up). This is where we use measuring cups, quarts, pints, etc. and skip the scale.
Note- Water is an exception where its weight is equal to volume. I.E- one cup is equal to 8 ounces of weight and 8 fluid ounces.
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