The Difference Between Parchment Paper and Wax Paper
March 5, 2024
source: iStock
You think you know things, but guess what! Every day you find out something new that just flips your world upside down. Today’s mind-boggler? Not many people knew the actual difference between parchment paper and wax paper. Yeah, I can see that surprised look on your face through the screen. Welcome to the club! So, what’s the big deal with parchment paper and wax paper, and why does it matter?
Parchment Paper vs. Wax Paper:
What Are They, Really?
First off, parchment paper is a heat-resistant, non-stick paper that’s used in baking and cooking. Thanks to its silicone coating, it can take the heat, making it perfect for lining baking sheets and cake pans or wrapping food for en papillote recipes (fancy term for baking in a parcel).
On the flip side, wax paper has a thin coating of wax on both sides, making it moisture-proof and non-stick. However, this same waxy coat that makes it great for wrapping sandwiches or cheese also turns into a smoke-fest when exposed to heat. So, a big no-no for the oven!
Can You Use Wax Paper in Place of Parchment Paper and Vice Versa?
Let’s keep it simple: No for baking. Wax paper will smoke up your kitchen if you try to use it in the oven due to the wax melting. Parchment paper, however, is versatile. It’s a champ in the oven for baking cookies or roasting veggies and can also be used for wrapping up goodies. Just don’t try to get it to seal your sandwiches; it’s not cut out for that moisture-locking life.
Is It Safe to Put Wax Paper in the Oven?
In a word, nope. Unless you enjoy the aroma of smoking wax, keep wax paper out of your oven. It’s really not meant to withstand high temperatures.
No Parchment? No Problem!
Got a baking project and realized you’re fresh out of parchment paper? Don’t fret! If you’re baking, aluminum foil is a decent stand-in. Just give it a light coat of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Another nifty trick is to lightly oil your baking sheet. It won’t give you the same non-stick effect for delicate bakes, but it’s better than nothing.
So there you have it! The lowdown on parchment versus wax paper. Next time you’re gearing up for a baking adventure or wrapping up leftovers, you’ll know exactly which paper to reach for. Happy baking (or wrapping)!