Is it possible to substitute Wax Paper for Parchment Paper during baking?

Is it possible to substitute Wax Paper for Parchment Paper during baking? - A Person Holding a Round Bread on a Wax Paper

If I don't have parchment paper, can I substitute wax paper for baking recipes. What is the difference between the two?



Best Answer

As @MeltedPez mentioned -- melting. (coincindence in the name? I'm not sure)

Specifically:

  • Waxed paper is wax-coated paper.
  • Parchment paper is silicone-coated paper.

Waxed paper is basically a candle in sheet form -- it'll melt, it'll burn, and it'll make your food taste like you're eating crayons. It'll start to melt near 350F / 175C. Parchment should go up to 500F / 260C ... it might get a little crispy or char at the edges, but won't spontaneously combust.

If you had to use something other than parchment, I'd go with 'release foil'.




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Is it possible to substitute Wax Paper for Parchment Paper during baking? - Assorted bread pieces in box on table
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Is it possible to substitute Wax Paper for Parchment Paper during baking? - Crop unrecognizable person packing ceramic tableware in parchment



Quick Answer about "Is it possible to substitute Wax Paper for Parchment Paper during baking?"

Wax paper features a thin, waxy coating on each side that makes it both nonstick and moisture-resistant (though it tends to absorb more water than parchment). It's a great substitute for parchment if you're looking to save money, as parchment paper usually ends up costing twice as much.

What happens if you use wax paper instead of parchment paper?

The biggest difference between parchment paper and wax paper is that wax paper is not heat-resistant. This means you cannot use it for baking, or even use it in the oven at all because the wax could melt and even catch fire inside your oven.

Can I bake on wax paper instead of parchment?

You can use wax paper instead of parchment paper to cover your kitchen surfaces, when measuring out dry ingredients, wrapping food for storage, kneading dough, and more. It's not heat-resistant paper. Meaning, it will melt in the oven or catch fire.

Can I bake without parchment paper?

Just as you can bake biscuits without baking powder, you can also bake cookies without the need to use parchment paper. The main reason why people use parchment paper is to ensure an easier cleanup. Therefore, if this is your main concern, you should use heavy foil instead of parchment to reduce cleanup time.




More answers regarding is it possible to substitute Wax Paper for Parchment Paper during baking?

Answer 2

The biggest difference is that wax paper melts and smokes in the oven, specifically when the wax paper is exposed.

If you cover it completely with batter, for example, you should be okay.

Answer 3

NO!! It's called WAX paper for a reason. It will burn possibly even start a fire! Parchment paper is expensive. Even cheaper is using regular old white computer printer paper sprayed with oil spray or baking spray. Toss it without feeling wasteful. I have used it up to 450 degrees. It will brown slightly, but has never burned. Try it yourself first with nothing on it so that you will be confident to use it with your breads.

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