The Best Baking Sheet

One of the many essentials of a well-stocked kitchen, baking sheets are handy and versatile. To choose the best set, consider several factors, including how you plan to utilize them and features that could make them more useful.

Cookie sheets come in several sizes, and all of them can be convenient for different needs. For instance, you can use two half-sheet pans for baking different types of cookies or heating chicken nuggets and french fries simultaneously. A large sheet allows you to bake cookies with room for spreading. Sheets in graduated sizes nest together comfortably for secure storage.

Heavy-gauge aluminum or aluminized steel baking sheets provide even heat distribution. Thicker sheets are durable and made to last without warping that can occur in thinner pans. Some bakers prefer baking sheets with nonstick coating for faster cleanup. Because these pans tend to be darker than plain aluminum sheets, they cook food faster, as well. If you prefer to avoid nonstick coating, using parchment paper, foil, or a silicone liner can prevent food from sticking to the baking sheet.

Large or silicone-coated handles provide a steadier grip, especially when using bulky oven mitts to slide the tray in and out of the oven. And raised sides can prevent food from accidentally sliding off the baking sheet.

• A cookie sheet, cookie pan, baking sheet and baking pan are all terms used for the same type of bakeware: flat or low-sided pan for baking cookies and other food.
• If you love to bake cookies, consider getting three baking sheets. This way, you can have one in the oven baking, another on a rack cooling, and a third one, already cool, waiting its turn to go in the oven. You’ll have your own one-person assembly line.
• Choose heavy-gauge, dull cookie sheets over thin or shiny ones. Thin cookie sheets warp easily, resulting in uneven baking and shiny baking sheets reflect heat, preventing even browning.
• Using parchment paper and silicone baking mats will help your baking sheets last longer and prevent unsightly discoloration.
• While insulated cookie sheets are adequate for soft-setting, light-colored drop cookies, they can cause other types of cookies to melt and spread, resulting in thin edges and an unappealing appearance.
• Rotating your baking sheet back to front halfway through baking time helps ensure the most even baking possible. Most ovens have hot and cold spots, so rotating can help prevent burned or undercooked areas.
• Never place cookie dough on a hot baking sheet, as it can cause the dough to spread.