roll of parchment paper

OtherYear-round

Parchment paper is not a food ingredient and contains no nutritional value. It is a kitchen tool and should not be consumed.

About

Parchment paper is a cellulose-based paper product treated with silicone coating on one or both sides to create a non-stick, heat-resistant surface. Derived from wood pulp, the paper is processed and bleached before receiving its characteristic silicone treatment, which allows it to withstand temperatures typically up to 420–450°F (215–230°C) depending on the manufacturer. Parchment paper is distinguishable from wax paper, which uses a wax coating instead of silicone and is not heat-stable for baking. The paper appears smooth and translucent with a slightly waxy feel, and the silicone coating provides both non-stick properties and moderate grease resistance.

Culinary Uses

Parchment paper functions primarily as a non-stick baking and cooking surface, preventing adhesion of doughs, batters, and prepared foods to baking sheets, pans, and oven surfaces. It is essential in pastry work for rolling out dough, lining sheet pans for cookies and pastries, and wrapping ingredients for en papillote (steaming in parchment packets). Beyond baking, parchment paper is used to line work surfaces during food preparation, separate layers of prepared foods for storage, and serve as a disposable liner for serving vessels. It may also be used for roasting vegetables and proteins, though direct contact with high heat sources should be avoided.

Forms & Preparations

  • Roll — Continuous sheet wound on a cardboard or plastic tube, typically 12–18 inches wide; allows customization of sheet size for different applications.
  • Pre-cut sheets — Individual sheets sized for standard baking pans (e.g., 9×13 inch or half-sheet size); offers convenience and portion control at higher cost.
  • Bleached — Standard white parchment paper treated to remove any natural coloration; most common form for general baking and cooking applications.
  • Unbleached — Natural kraft-colored parchment paper processed without bleaching chemicals; functionally equivalent but slightly less white in appearance; preferred by some for food safety or environmental reasons.
  • Coated on both sides — Silicone coating applied to both surfaces rather than one, offering increased durability and flexibility in handling; slightly more expensive than single-sided versions.