This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy.
Making a recipe and don’t have parchment paper? There are a few options if you’re in a pinch. Here’s the best parchment paper substitute!
Making a recipe that calls for parchment paper and don’t have it? Parchment paper is paper that is coated in silicon to make it non-stick and heat-resistant. This makes it perfect for sliding under vegetables in a roasting pan for easy cleanup, or under a cake or banana bread before baking.
You might need the real thing
Don’t have it on hand? There are several parchment paper substitutes, but each have specific pros and cons. Read below carefully before you make your choice! Sometimes the best option is parchment paper itself. For example, you’ll need it to make homemade no knead bread: there’s no substitute. Take a look at the notes below before you decide.
Best parchment paper substitute
1. Silicon baking mat
A great substitute for parchment paper? A silicon baking mat (Silpat is a well known brand). This is a sheet of silicon designed for baking and roasting. Here are some pros and cons to this substitute:
- Pros: A silicon baking mat is both non-stick and heat resistant. This typically works well for cookies and some vegetables. But keep in mind…
- Cons: Baking mats can cause roasted vegetables to become soggier than with parchment paper. If you’re making something that’s crispy and roasted like Crispy Brussels Sprouts, don’t use a baking mat. Instead go to the next option…
2. Aluminum foil with oil
Another substitute for parchment paper? Aluminum foil brushed with oil. Here are some pros and cons to this substitute:
- Pros: Aluminum foil is heat resistant and can withstand very high heat.
- Cons: Foil is not non-stick, which is why you should brush it with oil before using it. We wouldn’t recommend using this method for cookies, but it works great with salmon or veggies.
3. Greased baking sheet or pan
Another substitute for parchment paper? Simply oil your baking sheet or pan! Typically parchment paper is used for easy cleanup: especially for roasted vegetables. It might not be necessary if you spread on oil or butter in a thin layer. This also often works with a baking pan: liberally coat the inside with butter. However, if it’s a recipe that’s technique-driven like a fancy cake or pie, you may want to hold out for parchment paper.
- Pros: Greasing a pan or baking sheet is non-stick and heat resistant.
- Cons: This method can leave a mess in the pan for cleanup. It also could be less effective in precision baking.
4. Wax paper
Another parchment paper substitute? Wax paper. Keep in mind, wax paper is not heat resistant. Do not put wax paper in the oven! But if you’re using it for a no bake recipe like Chocolate Bark, it’s perfect.
- Pros: Wax paper is non-stick.
- Cons: Wax paper is not heat resistant: do not use it in the oven! It works for no-bake recipes.
5. Non-stick baking sheets
A last parchment paper substitute? Non-stick baking sheets. This special type of baking sheet doesn’t require parchment paper for roasting and baking: you can place the food right on the pan! Its non-stick surface makes for quick cleanup.
Related recipes
Here are some recipes where you can use this parchment paper substitute:
