26, 2020
Not all baking sheets are created equal!
Use our baking sheet buying guide to find out what to look for before you make your purchase.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature.
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Theres nothing like pulling out a piping hot baking sheet full ofchocolate chip cookies, straight from the oven.
But the experience is ruined when your cookies dont turn outquitehow you imagined.
It seems like a basic kitchen tool, but there are a surprising number of features to consider.
Use our baking sheet buying guide to help you make the right choice.
The terms cookie sheet and baking sheet are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference.
A baking sheet has a rimmed edge, and a cookie sheet does not.
Some pro bakers prefer a flat cookie sheet for better circulation and a larger surface capacity.
But for the average home baker, a rimmed baking sheet is best.
It allows you to make a larger variety of dishes thanks to its spill-proof edges.
you could whip up a pan of roasted veggies, baked chicken ora crispy pepperoni pan pizza.
Our Preferred Material
Most baking sheets are made from aluminum or aluminized steel.
Aluminum is a preferred material because of its durability and even heat distribution.
Plus, its affordable and easy to clean.
What more can you want?
Heavy-gauge aluminum pans are sturdier but will cost you a little more.
Test Kitchen Tip:Some acidic foods like tomatoes can react with aluminum, causing a metallic taste.
Its best to line your baking sheet with parchment paper or aSilpat baking mat.
Your Finish Options
Stick or nonstick, that is the question.
(Just in caseheres how to clean a baking sheet.)
Because nonstick finishes are usually dark in color, baking times are quicker, too.
But nonstick finishes will eventually wear off and the pan will need to be replaced.
Basic aluminum pans tend to last longer.
$27.99at Amazon
$25.95at Amazon
What About Insulation?
Youll see baking sheets on the market with descriptions that boast about their insulated construction.
But do you really need an insulated baking sheet?
Insulated sheets are made with a layer of air between two sheets of metal.
They are slow to warm up and require longer baking times.
Because of their gentle heat, theyre best suited for delicate cookies and light-colored desserts like shortbread.
(Heres another shortbread baking secret.)
You wont get crispy edges or brown bottomswhich are more commonly desired results.
A non-insulated sheet is more versatile and less expensive.
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