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What is parchment paper? (Baking 101)
• Lynsey Macdonald
When you're starting out on your cake decorating journey, it's important to get to know the basics! Before you get creative with fancy tools and innovative ingredients, your baking kit needs to be stocked up with the day to day items you'll reach for every time. One of those essentials is parchment paper!
If you've ever spotted parchment paper on a baking tutorial and wondered what it is, you've come to the right place. Let's explore what it is and how it is used in baking.
What is Parchment Paper?
Ever tried to make a batch of cookies, only to find they have stuck completely to the tin and ruined all your hard work? That's where parchment paper comes in!
Parchment paper is coated in a non-stick coating, usually food-grade silicone. This coating ensures that your bakes won't stick and come out of the oven exactly how you intended!
In addition to making it non-stick, the coating also makes the paper heat resistant. This is exactly what you need when putting your creations into a hot oven. (Please Note: Always check the details on the packaging when buying to ensure the version you've chosen can withstand the necessary temperature!)
And if that wasn't brilliant enough, the coating also makes the paper water resistant. So it won't disintegrate or flake onto your bakes if it gets wet.
In some instances the paper will have been bleached, and others it won't have - but the paper has the same properties regardless.
Is it the same as Baking Paper?
In a word - yes! Parchment paper and baking paper are two terms for the same product. They are used interchangeably, but both refer to the same item.
So whether your recipe/tutorial calls for one or the other, either will do the trick.
Is it the same as Greaseproof Paper?
In a word - no! The silicone coating found on baking or parchment paper is not necessarily found on greaseproof paper. So while it is grease resistant, it won't always be non-stick. Again, check the packaging of the product before buying to be sure it has the non-stick and heat resistant capabilities you need!
What will I use parchment paper for?
As a cake maker, the main use you'll have for parchment paper is lining your cake tins and baking trays when putting your treats in the oven.
This product is, however, really versatile! In addition to baking, you can use it to create a piping bag for cake decorating, to keep your work surface clean while preparing food, or to wrap and separate food for storing in the freezer. It even makes a lovely "rustic" gift wrap - pop your cookies in there and tie with a ribbon or string for a perfect present.
Even on a non-baking day, you'll still find plenty of uses for parchment paper in your kitchen!
Looking for more inspo?
A Beginners Guide to Cake Frosting
