Parchment paper is an item that is found in just about any baker’s home. It’s heat resistant, grease resistant, humidity resistant and is non-stick! What happens if you don’t have any on hand? Don’t worry, there are many easy substitutes for parchment paper if you’ve run out.
If you’re unsure what to use then take a look at our guide to get some tips and tricks on what works and what doesn’t.
Table of Contents
What is Parchment Paper Made of?
This beautiful paper is made from cellulose fibers that derive from fir trees or plants such as cotton or flax. The paper is made with a thickness and smooth surface, while the term refers to the actual finish of the paper.
8 Best Substitutes for Parchment Paper
1. Wax Paper – For Storing, Presenting or Wrapping
For storing and wrapping wax paper is your best option for a substitute for parchment paper.
Both wax paper and parchment paper have similar properties. Wax paper has a wax coating on each side, this prevents any food from sticking to it. It, much like parchment paper, is moisture resistant but is less expensive than parchment paper. Wax paper is perfect for:
- Storing ice cream or other frozen food: Pressing wax paper right onto the ice cream before putting the lid back on will prevent ice crystals from forming.
- Rolling dough: From baking to rolling, wax paper can help you roll out your dough for any of your baking projects. Simply roll your dough on the wax paper to prevent it from sticking to your countertop.
- Storing cheese: Much like parchment paper, wax paper can be used to keep foods such as cheese fresh. Ultimately keeping your food from drying out.
While your wax paper is a great substitute, keep in mind that there is one major difference. Wax paper, unlike parchment paper, is not heat-resistant. If you do overheat your wax paper, the wax could melt and contaminate your food.
2. Silicone Baking Mats
Another popular item and great substitute are silicone baking mats. Commonly known as silpat paper, the mats are perfect for baking but at a much higher cost. However, the silicone baking mats are more durable and last longer than parchment paper. Some of the pros of the silicone mats is that they are durable, can withstand high cooking temperatures, can be used for rolling dough, kneading and making candies. Make note, that silpat paper is nonstick, so you will need to grease the mat before use.
Plus, silpat papers can be reused over and over again, which is unlike parchment paper. And if you’re looking for a more eco-friendly option, this is for you.
3. Aluminum Foil
Whether it’s baking, grilling, steaming, roasting or cooking – aluminum foil is a great substitution. In addition, aluminum foil allows you to lift and release food with minimal effort and less mess. Which is a huge plus for those who don’t necessarily enjoy cleaning.
Note: aluminum foil is far from nonstick, so there is a big chance that your food will stick to it unless you use a little bit of oil. You may also need to reduce your cooking temperature as aluminum foil conducts heat faster.
4. Nonstick Sheet Pans: Good for Baking
Another substitute that is simple is a high-quality nonstick sheet pan. Some non-stick sheet pans still need a small coating of oil to ensure there is no sticking. However, if the sheet is a higher quality nonstick sheet pan, then it will be a breeze to clean.
5. Oil or Cooking Spray
An item that most people keep on hand and that can be used as both a substitute to parchment paper and an aid in the substitutes is oil or cooking spray. The tip is to simply coat the pan and not over grease it to avoid extra greasy food.
6. Butter
Your choice here is to use an unsalted or salted butter as a parchment paper substitute. If you like a slight saltiness, then the butter will give your baking treats an exterior. While unsalted butter does not have the salty flavor, it does help provide a golden brown color at the end of the baking process. However, if you’re not fond of salt or butter flavor, then use shortening instead.
7. Flour
There’s a bit of a trick when using flour to grease your pan – two layers. Grease and flour a nonstick pan. When baking, simply sprinkle a bit of flour on the surface over the grease. The flour will stick to the grease, or butter. The tip here is to not use a thick coating unless the recipe calls for it.
8. Paper bag
You may be surprised with this suggestion, but it’s promised to be a good one. Paper bags are a great way to wrap your food and store it, however it isn’t intended for use in cooking or baking.
Can I Use Freezer Paper as an Alternative in Baking?
No, unfortunately not! Freezer papers are intended for and designed to freeze items in the freezer. Freezer paper is thick with a single coating, which can be confused for wax paper – so just be sure to grab and use the right one.
How to Substitute Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- Aluminum Foil
- optional other substitutes
Instructions
- Use aluminum foil or other substitutes for baking according to the recipe
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