Which Side Of Parchment Paper Goes Up? Answered

Last Updated on April 14, 2024 by Shari Mason

Do you have stacks of parchment paper in your home, like most people? Have you ever wondered which side of the parchment paper should be facing up?

If not, don’t worry – we’re here to help.

In this blog post, we will discuss the proper way to use parchment paper and explain why it’s important to get it right.

What Side Of Parchment Paper Goes Up?

The silicone side should always be facing up. If the silicone side is facing down, it will stick to the pan, and the food will not release easily. 

Parchment paper is coated with a thin layer of silicone, which gives it a nonstick surface. It is also heat resistant and can be used in the oven. 

When using parchment paper, knowing which side to put up is important. Parchment paper can be reused several times before it needs to be replaced.

Read: Can You Use Fridge And Freezer Baking Soda For Baking?

Is There A Right Way To Use Parchment Paper?

Well, it depends on what you’re using the parchment paper for. If you’re baking cookies or another food item that is likely to stick, spraying it with oil can help prevent sticking. 

However, if you’re using parchment paper for something that isn’t likely to stick, such as roasting vegetables, then there’s no need to bother with the oil.

In general, parchment paper is a convenient and versatile kitchen tool. Whether you’re using it for baking, roasting, or even just lining a baking sheet, it can help to make your life easier. 

Read: Butcher Paper Vs. Kraft Paper

Is Parchment Paper Wax On One Side?

Many people believe that parchment paper is coated with wax on one side. However, this is not the case. Parchment paper is made from a type of cellulose fiber treated with chemicals. 

The treated fibers are then coated with a nonstick substance, such as silicone or Teflon.

This coating helps to prevent food from sticking to the paper and makes it easy to release baked goods.

Bleached vs Unbleached Parchment Paper

Regarding parchment paper, there are two main types: bleached and unbleached. 

As the name suggests, bleached parchment paper has been treated with chemicals to make it white. This parchment is typically used for light-colored baked goods, giving them a bright, clean appearance. 

Unbleached parchment paper, on the other hand, has a creamy color and is made without harsh chemicals.

This type of parchment is often used for dark-colored baked goods, as it helps them to retain their rich color. 

In terms of performance, bleached and unbleached parchment paper work well for tasks like lining baking sheets and rolling dough. 

However, some bakers prefer unbleached parchment paper because they believe it produces a tastier end product. 

Ultimately, deciding which type of parchment paper to use is a matter of personal preference.

Read: Can You Use Parchment Paper In A Dehydrator?

Is Parchment Paper The Same As Wax Paper?

No. Parchment paper and wax paper are both widely used in the kitchen but are different products. 

Parchment paper is made from a type of heavy-duty paper that is treated with an acid to make it nonstick. 

On the other hand, wax paper is coated with a thin layer of wax. This gives it a slightly greasy feel and makes it better suited for tasks like wrapping food. 

When it comes to baking, parchment paper is the preferred choice. The heat-resistant material helps to prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. 

On the other hand, wax paper can melt in the oven, making it a less-than-ideal choice for baked goods. So, while parchment and wax paper have their uses, they are not interchangeable. But can you also use parchment paper on the grill?

One-Sided vs Two-Sided Parchment Paper

Generally speaking, one-sided parchment paper [1] is better for tasks that require even heat distribution, such as baking. The coating on one side helps prevent the food from sticking and promotes even browning. 

However, more than one-sided parchment paper is needed for tasks that require maximum heat transfer, such as broiling.

On the other hand, two-sided parchment paper is better for tasks requiring maximum heat transfer. The coatings on both sides help to conduct heat more efficiently, making it ideal for tasks like broiling. 

However, two-sided parchment paper is only sometimes necessary – in many cases, one-sided parchment paper will work just fine.

FAQs

Can parchment paper go in the air fryer?

Yes. Parchment paper can go in the air fryer. It will help keep the food from sticking to the basket and make cleaning easier. But can parchment paper also be used in a toaster oven?

Can parchment paper go in the freezer?

Yes, parchment paper can go in the freezer. Frozen things on parchment paper is a good idea because it prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup.

When you are finished freezing the food, peel off the parchment paper and discard it.

How do you fold parchment paper for directional flow?

There are a few ways to fold parchment paper for directional flow. One way is to make an “X” with the help of scissors. Another way is to make accordion-style folds, then twist the folded paper into a cone- or tulip-like shape. 

Whichever folding method you choose, be sure that the open end of your cone or tulip is pointing in the direction you want the oil or sauce to flow. Find out if you can use parchment paper in the microwave here.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, there is a right and wrong side to parchment paper. 

The shiny side should always be facing up when baking because it creates a better seal and results in a more consistent bake. If you use the dull side of the parchment, your food may stick or burn easier. 

Now that you know which side of parchment paper goes up put it to good use the next time you bake.

Reference:

1. https://cooking.stackexchange.com/questions/67795/which-side-of-the-baking-paper-should-face-up