Since I don’t use nonstick pans in cooking, I’ve spent years greasing pans for baking.
I’ve seen my daughter, a great cook, use parchment paper many times, but I just didn’t get the idea that it would be helpful.
However, when I took the Dean Ornish heart health program in 2023, which is a very low fat diet, using parchment paper in baking was recommended.
I began trying it, and it works like a charm.
I don’t make as many baked goods as I used to because many of them contain lots of sugar. However, I do enjoy cornbread. Parchment paper works great for cornbread, as shown in this photo:
I also use parchment frequently for baking vegan food, for example, burgers, nuggets, and chicken and beef substitutes. I also use it for baking vegetables, including potatoes and sweet potatoes in their skins. I use a baking pan with parchment paper for whole potatoes so my new oven doesn’t get messy.
What’s parchment paper?
A cellulose-based paper, parchment paper is treated so it’s non-stick and grease- and heat-resistant by passing it through a bath of sulfuric acid. The cellulose is partially dissolved when treated and creates a firm surface.
Many parchment papers use food-safe silicone coatings, which are considered stable and don’t leach harmful chemicals at typical cooking temperatures. Some may use a PFAS coating and these should be avoided.
Some food writers recommend using parchment again, if the second food being cooked won’t be affected by the first. However, others say it’s created for one use.
What are the advantages of parchment paper?
It provides a nonstick surface and helps with even baking. Parchment paper also is fantastic because it there’s no baked on food on the pan. Cleanup is easy.
Is parchment paper expensive?
Several food writers say parchment is more expensive than using oil. However, one recommended looking for it at discount stores for a cheaper price.
I bought mine at Costco. It comes in a two-roll package. After a year and a half, I finally used up one roll. And, I use parchment paper all the time for my vegan cooking.
Is parchment paper environmental?
Brown, unwaxed parchment paper is made from wood pulp with a thin layer of silicone. It’s untreated with no bleaching process so it can usually be composted.
Many white parchment papers are bleached with chlorine and small traces of it may be found in the paper. Generally, they aren’t suitable for composting.
Check the box or with manufacturer’s website to determine whether the parchment paper is compostable.
Although the Kirkland Parchment paper I’m using has been bleached, the Costco website says it’s fully compostable.
You can reduce kitchen waste by swapping parchment paper for silicone baking mats that can be used many times. I’ve seen my daughter use these, too.
Final thoughts
Try parchment paper. It works really well. And, look for the brown variety that hasn’t been bleached. Also, look for parchment paper that doesn’t have PFAS.
