Parchment paper is cellulose-based treated or coated paper. Normally it is coated with silicone. The silicone coating makes the paper nonstick, heat-resistant as well as water-resistant. In addition, it helps to regulate temperature and ensure even heating during baking. It is available in bleached (white) or unbleached (brown) form. The parchment paper is an important part of baking and a versatile kitchen; most of them are oven safe up to 420 F. Usually it comes in a roll or in pre-cut sheets, even more convenient. Currently, some parchment paper is made by treated with sulfuric acid or zinc chloride.
What is parchment paper used for
The parchment paper is heat resistant and it is safe to use up to about 420-450 degrees Fahrenheit that makes it perfect to use in a regular or convection oven. The nonstick properties make it is wonderful for making cookies. But the paper can be put to use in many other ways including tracing paper, arts/crafts liner, wrapping, grating cheese or sifting flour, steaming delicate fish. We should remember that At higher temperatures (over 450 degrees Fahrenheit), the paper can brittle and will start to turn brown.
Parchment paper vs wax paper?
Parchment paper is coated with silicone which makes it nonstick, grease and moisture-resistant, and heat-resistant paper. It is also known as baking paper. It has a very versatile use. it is more often used in the kitchen or in an oven. It is more and moisture-resistant than wax paper. The parchment paper can often be used more than one time.
Wax paper is coated with paraffin wax on each side. This coating makes it nonstick and moisture-resistant. This paper is less expensive than parchment paper. So it is a great substitute for parchment paper for tasks such as covering countertops. On the other hand, it is not heat-resistant and therefore we cannot use it for baking or in the oven. Moreover, the wax can be melt, or even ignite.
Conclusion
The parchment paper is heat resistant and it is safe to use up to about 420-450 degrees. Over the safe temperature, it has a tendency to turn dark and fragile. If you want to save some money then without heating purpose most of the cases you can use wax paper instead of it. You can buy parchment paper in rolls, or as pre-cut sheets and rounds to fit your pans with less waste. Depending on using purpose a sheet of parchment can be reused several times.
