If you have started a baking project, and you are ready to put your mixture in the tin or case, and you realize that you do not have any parchment paper.
This a very frustrating situation, and sometimes you need to bake your project ASAP, so this is when you will need to know some of the best parchment paper substitutes!
What Is Parchment Paper?
Parchment paper is a paper which is both non-stick as well as heat-resistant because it has been covered in silicone.
It is also water-resistant too. Because of all of these qualities it is commonly used in a lot of baking projects.
If you do not bake often it is very easy to forget that you do not have any in, and since it is not one of the main ingredients it is incredibly easy to overlook when you are buying your ingredients.
Make Sure To Not Use The Wrong Substitute?
Each of these substitutes works best in certain situations, this list by no means guarantees that you will get good results with all of these options so make sure to closely consider what you are using the substitute for.
If you are doubtful, look up specific substitutes for what you are baking.
If you closely consider what you are using the substitute for, you should not have any issues.
The Best Parchment Paper Substitutes
1. Silicone Baking Mat
What Is This Substitute?
The best thing about silicone baking mats is that they are completely reusable, so if you are more eco-conscious they are a great option.
They do not always crisp your food the way parchment paper does, but if you do not want something to stick they are great.
When Is It Best To Use This Substitute?
If you are baking something like cookies, or something flat in a tray these are great!
How Is This Substitute Different From Parchment Paper?
They sometimes cook your items differently, especially if something is rising off the surface.
You are also not able to change the shape, and they can not be folded.
2. Greased Baking Sheets Or Pans
What Is This Substitute?
This is less of a substitute and more just greasing your tin or case with a generous but not excessive layer of butter or oil.
This is one of the more economical options since you do not have to buy anything for it usually.
When Is It Best To Use This Substitute?
If you need more flexibility and want to get in nooks and crannies this is a great option.
How Is This Substitute Different From Parchment Paper?
Often less effective and much less predictable than using parchment paper.
3. Aluminum Foil And Oil
What Is This Substitute?
If you brush foil with oil, it can function quite similarly to parchment paper, this is also heat-resistant making it a good option.
When Is It Best To Use This Substitute?
This works relatively similarly to parchment paper, but still not great for precision baking.
How Is This Substitute Different From Parchment Paper?
Foil is not naturally non-stick so can sometimes be bothersome to work with.
4. No Stick Baking Sheets
What Is This Substitute?
If you are using baking sheets which are advertised as non-stick, sometimes this is a worthy substitute.
When Is It Best To Use This Substitute?
If you are happy with the non-stick quality of your equipment, this is often a great solution.
How Is This Substitute Different From Parchment Paper?
Not always trustworthy for more precision based baking, especially if anything can easily get caught.
5. Wax Paper
What Is This Substitute?
This is very similar to parchment paper and is great for anything you do not want to stick, but it is not heat-resistant.
When Is It Best To Use This Substitute?
For anything which is not put in the oven, wax paper is a perfect substitute.
How Is This Substitute Different From Parchment Paper?
Can not be used in the oven which eliminates a lot of potential use.
6. Cooking Spray
What Is This Substitute?
These sprays are often a great solution and are a simple substitute for parchment paper.
When Is It Best To Use This Substitute?
If you just want to make sure it will not stick, this is a great substitute!
How Is This Substitute Different From Parchment Paper?
Similarly to greasing, this option is not the most trustworthy and consistent.
Takeaway
Hopefully now the next time you are in need of a parchment paper substitute there is something on this list which is easily available which fits the situation you need it for!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Bake Without Using Parchment Paper?
Some bakes can work without parchment paper, but a lot of projects are likely to stick to your tray or tin if you do not use parchment paper or a fitting substitute.
Cooking is great for your mental, physical, and emotional health. What’s the worst that could happen? Find a recipe that you like the sound of and cook it along with me. You might even unlock a new passion!
- 15 Traditional Greek Breads - July 31, 2023
- 30 Delicious And Gluten-Free Cookie Recipes - July 29, 2023
- 30 Of The Best European Desserts - July 29, 2023