The Best Baking Mat

There’s nothing worse than baking a batch of cookies for your friends and family only to discover that the bottoms of the delicious desserts have stuck to the pan. You try to remove the cookies, but it becomes impossible to keep the cookies intact. An excellent solution to this problem is a set of silicone baking mats with a nonstick coating that allows cookies to just slide off the mat and onto a cooling tray.

Almost all silicone baking mats have a fiberglass center that allows foods to be heated evenly, as well as silicone-coated edges to protect the fiberglass center. It’s important that you make sure the silicone is listed as food-grade and that it doesn’t contain any BPA or other toxic materials.

Check for any special awards or certifications so you know you’re buying a quality baking mat. For example, some brands are not only FDA-certified but also NSF- and Kosher-certified.

Consider the temperature you need the baking sheet to safely operate in. Some are only safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, while others, like the AmazonBasics Silicone Baking Mat Sheet, Set of 2, can be used in ovens set as high as 480 degrees Fahrenheit. Of course, if you need a set to use in the freezer, you’ll also want to make sure the mat can handle colder temperatures.

Finally, take into consideration how many silicone baking mats you need. You can purchase a single mat or get a set instead. Make sure you check the set’s sizes. Some contain multiple mats of the same size. The Kitzini Silicone Baking Mats, Set of 3 features two mats of identical size and shape, as well as a smaller mat for less extensive jobs.

• While most silicone baking mats are dishwasher-safe on the top shelf, some can be too tall to fit on the top shelf of the dishwasher.
• Some reviewers comment that the silicone edges on some models split after a few uses. Always check the quality of the mat before you buy.
• Avoid using metal utensils with the baking mat, as they can scratch the mat. Plastic and wooden utensils are best for extending the life of the mat.
• Store the silicone baking mat either rolled or flat. Bending the mat can leave creases.
• Don’t use baking mats with direct fire ovens, over open flames or under a broiler.
• You’ll need to examine how many baking sheets you’re getting in each set when considering price. For example, even though the AmazonBasics Silicone Baking Mat Sheet, Set of 2 has a lower price than the Kitzini Silicone Baking Mats, Set of 3, it costs more when you divide the price by the number of mats in the set. Those with multiple certifications are also able to command the highest price.