Since it appeared in our kitchen, it never came out! Yes, today we are talking about parchment paper and baking paper. But there is this universal confusion about the difference between parchment paper and baking paper.
Are they the same or different? If they are different, how do we know? Let’s break down the confusion and divide the parchment paper vs. baking paper.
In reality, both parchment paper and baking paper are almost the same. They are used interchangeably everywhere, and rightly so. There is a fine line between these papers, which can be avoided.
But for clarity, we will discuss all aspects of baking and parchment paper and their differences. Also, we will highlight possible combinations of baking or parchment paper with other materials.
What is Parchment Paper or Baking Paper and What are their Properties?
Baking paper, commonly called parchment paper, is waterproof paper primarily used for baking food. In reality, the term baking paper is much broader. It includes different types of documents having the same property. So, parchment paper is a variety of baking paper.
Their specialty lies in their non-stick properties that avoid food sticking to the baking tray. As a result, they allow you to avoid using fats like butter or margarine to grease the pans.
These types of paper can withstand high temperatures in the oven. However, the excellent advice is not to exceed 220°C. Outside of temperature, any food contamination with unwanted substances can occur.
Parchment Paper Vs. Baking Paper: How They Differ?
As mentioned earlier, we used modified terms because of their characteristics. Some also call them generic, non-stick, or vegetable paper. They are almost the same, but it depends on the manufacturer.
A parchment paper will always work for baking, but it can only be sulfurized. Sulfurizing is a process by which paper is treated with sulfuric acid. It solubilizes the vegetable fibers and forms a kind of gel with non-stick properties.
Baking paper is the same but silicone-coated. If a layer of silicon is added – usually on both sides – its properties are improved. Also, you can use it more times.
You can find both a bleached and unbleached version. This gives it a more rustic look and can speed up baking as it retains more heat.
At this point, you should know that most people confuse baking or parchment paper with wax paper. Unlike parchment paper and baking paper, wax papers are a completely different type of baking material.
Is Wax Paper and Parchment Paper Same?
If you’re new, parchment and wax paper may look similar. Both are non-stick paper with moisture-resistant qualities. It is easy to mix. Also, because of the low cost, people sometimes prefer wax paper instead of baking or parchment paper.
Baking or parchment paper has a silicone coating, while wax paper has a layer of wax.
Paper wax melts when exposed to very high temperatures. This way, the wax can melt into the baked goods. Also:
– because wax has a relatively low smoke point; In a sweltering oven, it can smoke and even burn.
– Wax may transfer to the baking pan or tin and require additional cleaning.
What Are the Uses of Baking Paper or Parchment Paper?
1. Line the Baking Sheets and Molds for Baking
This is arguably the most popular use for baking or parchment paper. It prevents food from sticking on the tray and makes cleaning easier. Cookies, fries, breaded meats, or roasted vegetables slide off the plate without a trace! You can even reuse the paper from one batch to another for baking cookies.
We always line our loaf pans and baking pans with a parchment paper. But if you are a beginner, you may wonder how to do it. Follow this:
1. How to line a loaf pan with parchment paper
2. How to line a baking pan with parchment paper
2. Bake in Foil
It is an interesting cooking technique. Baking in foil allows you to cook without adding fat while preserving the flavors. You can use it, among other things, for cooking fish, poultry, vegetables, or fruit. The parchment paper pouch cooks the food in its juice in a tightly closed sac.
3. Cook in a Skillet on the Stove
A baking paper on the bottom of a pan provides a non-stick surface. It’s a way to brown food without adding oil or fat. Just moisten both sides of the paper before placing it in the pan and cook over medium heat.
4. Cover Foods in the Microwave
Baking paper is ideal for covering foods you want to reheat or cook. It helps retain moisture and prevents spattering.
5. Roll Out the Dough
Does your pastry dough stick to the counter or rolling pin? Roll the dough out inside two layers of paper.
Wet the counter and cover it with a sheet of parchment paper (the water will prevent the sheet from slipping). Place the dough on the paper, cover it with another sheet of parchment paper and roll out as usual.
6. Freeze Fruit
You can freeze fruit (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, sliced peaches, etc.) in a single layer on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking together. When you have the frozen fruits, transfer them to freezer bags.
Final words
Finally, parchment paper and baking paper may have slight differences, but their uses are the same. You can use them both for baking or cooking without any problem.
But be careful using wax paper instead of them because they look similar. Look at the article carefully, and you will understand the difference.
