Baking Paper vs. Wax Paper: Which One Should You Use?

Do you love baking but are confused by the different papers available to line your pans? Are you tired of using the wrong type and ending up with a messy disaster? In this post, we’ll settle the age-old debate between using wax and baking or parchment paper. 

What Is Baking Paper?

Baking paper, also known as parchment paper, belongs to a group of cellulose-based sheets specially designed for use in the kitchen. You can use it to line baking pans and sheets.

The manufacturing process involves treating pulp with sulfuric acid or zinc chloride, which breaks down the fibers and results in a non-stick surface. Next, manufacturers apply a silicone layer. This gives it its heat-resistant and non-stick properties.

Using it has several benefits, such as preventing food from sticking to the pan and making for easy cleanup. It also gives you a more enjoyable baking experience. In addition, its highly heat-resistant nature means it won’t burn or melt at high temperatures in the oven.

It also comes in pre-cut sheets or rolls. You can buy it at grocery stores or online retailers. If you love baking, you better stock it in your pantry or dirty kitchen.

What Is Wax Paper?

As its name suggests, wax paper features thin layers of wax on both sides. It is commonly used for food packaging and storage. In some cases, you can use it for baking and cooking.

Manufacturers use a thin layer of wax, typically paraffin wax. This wax coating makes the sheet waterproof and resistant to moisture. Its nature makes it an ideal choice for wrapping food items that need to be stored in the freezer or refrigerator.

In addition to its use in food storage, you can use it as a non-stick surface in baking. However, it’s not heat-resistant. Hence, you shouldn’t use it in the baking oven or microwave because it can melt or catch fire.

You can easily find it in grocery stores and online retailers. Like baking or parchment paper, it comes in pre-cut sheets or rolls. While it can be a helpful kitchen tool, you must use it correctly to avoid fires. 

When to Use Baking Paper

So when should you use baking or parchment paper? Here are the most common uses of parchment sheets: 

1. Lining Baking Sheets

When baking cookies (e.g., chocolate chip cookies), pastries (e.g., bavarian donuts), or other baked goods, use it to line the baking sheet. Doing so prevents the food from sticking to the pan. It also makes it easy to clean up since you can throw it. 

2. Lining Cake Pans

Line the cake pans with baking or parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan. Doing so also makes the cake easier to remove from the pan. This is particularly useful for delicate cakes (e.g., Japanese cheesecake) that may be difficult to remove from the pan.

3. Making Homemade Candy

You can also use it as a non-stick surface to prevent the candy from sticking to the pan or work surface. 

4. Roasting Vegetables

Lining the roasting pan helps prevent the vegetables from sticking to the pan. This also makes for easy cleanup, as you can discard it with any food debris.

5. Wrapping Food 

Using it helps prevent the food from sticking to the container or other food items. 

When to Use Wax Paper

So when should you use wax paper? Here are the most common uses of wax sheets: 

1. Lining Surfaces for Messy Projects

When doing messy projects like painting or working with glue, use it to protect surfaces from damage or stains. The wax coating prevents the mess from soaking through and staining the surface, making cleanup easier.

2. Separating Food Items

You can also use it to separate baked goods like red velvet cookies, brownies, butterscotch, or fruit cake, to prevent them from sticking together. In addition, you can use it to separate layers of a minimalist cake, making it easier to assemble and decorate.

3. Wrapping Food for Short-Term Storage

Use it to wrap sandwiches, cheese, and other food items that you’ll store for a short period. The wax coating on the sheet helps keep the food fresh and prevents it from drying out. 

However, you must note that it’s unsuitable for long-term food storage, as it doesn’t provide an airtight seal.

4. Making No-Bake Desserts

Use it when making no-bake desserts like chocolate fudge or cookies and cream truffles. The coating prevents the dessert from sticking to the surface. 

It also makes it easy to remove the dessert from the sheet after the treat sets. This can save you time and effort when cleaning up.

5. Decorating With Chocolate

Pipe the melted chocolate onto the wax paper and easily remove it once it has set. This makes it easy for you to create intricate designs for your desserts.

Pros and Cons of Using Baking Paper

Here are the pros and cons of using baking or parchment paper: 

Pros

Non-stick surface

It has a non-stick surface that prevents food from sticking to the pan, so you can remove baked goods without damaging them.

Easy to clean up

It prevents food from sticking to the pan, making cleanup quick and easy.

Prevents burning

It can also prevent food from burning on the bottom of the pan. This is useful when baking delicate or light-colored baked goods.

Reduces the need for greasing

Using it eliminates the need to grease the pan. This saves time and reduces the amount of fat in the recipe.

Can be used in high temperatures

It can withstand high temperatures up to 450°F (230°C).

Cons

Cost

It can be more expensive than greasing the pan or other non-stick options.

Limited reuse

Unlike other baking options like silicone mats, you must throw the parchment sheet after a baking session.

Pros and Cons of Using Wax Paper

Here are some pros and cons of using wax paper:

Pros

Non-stick surface

Like baking paper, wax paper also has a non-stick surface, making it helpful in separating baked goods and preventing messes.

Easy to find

You can easily find it in grocery stores and online retailers.

Affordable

It is also generally less expensive than other non-stick options, such as silicone mats or parchment paper.

Multipurpose

You can also use it for other tasks. These include wrapping sandwiches or lining drawers and shelves to protect them from dust and dirt.

Cons

Not heat-resistant

It shouldn’t be used in the oven or on the stovetop, as the wax coating can melt and cause a fire.

Not suitable for long-term storage

While it can be used for short-term storage, it does not provide a good seal. As a result, it’s unsuitable for long-term food storage.

Can leave a residue

The wax coating on the sheet can leave a residue on food items, particularly those that are oily or greasy.

Not recyclable

Because of the wax coating, it is not recyclable and should be thrown after one use.

Can tear easily

It tears once it comes into contact with sharp or pointed objects.

Which Is Better: Baking Paper or Wax Paper? 

If you’re baking, baking paper is generally the better option because it’s heat-resistant and non-stick. 

It can withstand high temperatures up to 450°F (230°C), making it suitable for many baking tasks. You can also use it for the same baking session. Additionally, it has a lower risk of catching fire than wax paper.

On the other hand, if you need a non-stick surface for separating food or short-term storage, wax paper is the better option. 

It’s affordable and widely available. You can also use it for household tasks like wrapping sandwiches and lining drawers. However, note that you must not use it in the oven or stovetop. 

Both baking and wax paper have pros and cons, but the choice depends on usage and preference. 

How to Use Baking Paper the Right Way

Use it the right way by following these steps: 

1. Choose the right size.

Use the appropriate size of baking paper for your baking tray or dish. If it’s too small, it may not cover the entire surface area and expose parts of your food to the tray. Otherwise, it may bunch up and cause uneven baking.

2. Cut to size.

If it comes in a roll, measure and cut it to the desired size before placing it in the tray. This will make it easier to handle and prevent it from tearing or crumpling.

4. Use as a liner.

Place it as a liner in your baking tray or dish. This will prevent your food from sticking to the surface and make cleaning easier.

5. Don’t use grease.

It is designed to be non-stick, so you don’t have to grease the pan with butter or virgin olive oil. Doing so prevents your food from becoming greasy and makes it healthier.

6. Avoid direct contact with the heat source.

It is heat-resistant, but it’s best to avoid direct contact with the heat source. This means you shouldn’t use it to cover the heating elements in your oven or use it on the stovetop.

7. Reuse if possible.

It can also be reused for the same baking session, provided it’s not too greasy or burnt. Shake or wipe it clean with a damp cloth and use it again.

How to Use Wax Paper the Right Way

Use it the right way by following these steps: 

1. Choose the right size.

Like baking paper, you must use the appropriate size of wax paper for your needs. This will ensure that it covers the entire surface area. Doing so also properly separates the food. 

2. Use it as a non-stick surface.

Place it on your cooking area as a non-stick surface for food separation. You can use it between burgers, bacon, or other meat to prevent them from sticking together.

3. Avoid heat exposure.

Don’t use it with hot food or in high-heat environments. The wax coating can melt and transfer to your food. This can be harmful and affect the food’s taste and texture.

4 .Do not use it for long-term storage.

It’s unsuitable for long-term storage because it can trap moisture, causing the food to spoil. Use it for short-term storage, such as wrapping sandwiches or covering leftovers for a day or two.

5. Throw it away properly.

Dispose of it correctly since it’s not recyclable. Throw it away with regular household waste. Never flush it down the toilet or place it in the recycling bin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

When making baked treats, baking or parchment paper is the clear winner. While wax paper has uses in the kitchen, parchment paper is the more versatile and durable option.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting in the kitchen, a roll of baking paper can make a difference in your recipes. From lining baking pans to cleaning, baking paper takes your game to the next level. So next time you’re at the grocery store, don’t forget to pick up a roll of this kitchen staple! 

About HICAPS

Over the years, HICAPS has helped bakers and businesses make delicious products by offering ingredients like ChiffonAide Cake Oil, Magic Whizk Whipping Cream, Red Velvet Flavor Emulco, and Instabake Brownie Mix. 

HICAPS also provides tools and resources to valued partners, such as the free “How to Increase Your Sales Amidst the Pandemic” E-book and free dealer locator that helps look for baking ingredients near me. 

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