When working in the kitchen, especially while baking, it’s always helpful to have an array of non-stick products to make clean up a lot easier down the line.
One of the best non-stick products out there used for batches of cookies and croissants alike is parchment paper. But what even is this special paper?
Parchment paper is grease and moisture resistant paper that is used by bakers and cooks. It is non-stick so you can use it for a lot of cooking, lining cake molds, wrapping fish, and much more!
But, can you use parchment paper in a toaster oven? Yes, parchment paper can be used in a toaster oven, as it is heat resistant up to 425°F. However, if you plan on using your toaster oven above that temperature, then it is best to opt for a different baking material, such as aluminum foil.
In this article, we’ll discuss the best ways to use parchment paper in a toaster oven and the required precautions.
Is It Possible To Use Parchment Paper In A Toaster Oven?
Yes, it is certainly possible to use parchment paper in a toaster oven. The paper is treated with silicon, which makes it heat-resistant as well as non-stick.
Though it may get a little dry and may begin to crumble over a long baking period, it won’t burn. Using parchment paper will also save a lot of clean-up time.
Parchment paper comes in two types: bleached and unbleached.
Bleached parchment paper is white in color while an unbleached one is brown. This bleached variety is treated with chemicals while the unbleached one is not, just like the name suggests.
Since the unbleached parchment paper contains fewer chemicals, it is considered to be healthier and safer than the other.
Additional Tips For Using Parchment Paper
Using parchment paper for too long in a very dry and hot oven could burn your food. So, before you decide to start using parchment paper in a toaster oven, here are a few tips to ensure you use it in the best ways possible.
Tip #1: Compare The Size Of Your Parchment Paper And The Pan
Before starting anything, you need to make sure that you’re using the proper size of the parchment paper. To do so, turn your pan over and use it as a stencil to cut the exact shape and size of the parchment paper that you’ll need.
Tip #2: Place The Parchment Paper Properly Inside The Pan
After making sure that you have the right size, place your paper neatly inside the pan. This is to ensure that no parchment paper is sticking out of it as that may cause it to burn easily.
Now, you can add whatever you need to cook or bake on top of it.
Tip #3: Spray Cooking Spray Underneath It
If you’re using the parchment paper to line cake pans for easy release, put a little grease or spray some cooking spray underneath it.
Why Shouldn’t You Use Parchment Paper In A Toaster Oven?
Although it is possible to use parchment paper in your toaster oven, there are a few reasons you should consider another substitute.
Parchment Paper Can Burn the Food
If by mistake, you leave a little part of your parchment paper sticking out of the pan you’re cooking in, it may cause it to burn. As a result, your food can burn as well.
Also, since the space in a toaster is very confined, you need to stay cautious so that you do not end up causing a fire hazard.
You Cannot Use It In A Halogen Toaster Oven
If you’re using a halogen toaster oven (that is, an oven that uses a halogen light bulb), we don’t suggest that you use parchment paper.
These toasters get heated up quickly and are unsafe when it comes to using parchment paper inside them.
It May Cause Fire
You should keep parchment paper as far as possible from the walls of the toaster oven.
Since the area is limited, if even a tiny portion of the paper comes in contact with the walls, which get extremely hot during the cooking process, it may cause it to burn.
Parchment paper is designed to be used only below 425°F. So, if you expose it to more heat than that, it will burn and cause your food to burn as well.
The Best Substitutes For Parchment Paper
Here are a few alternatives that you can use instead of parchment paper when cooking in a toaster oven!
Aluminum Foil
This is one of the best options for replacing parchment paper. It can be used in as many applications as parchment paper can. For example, you can use it to prevent drips and spills by lining the baking tray that you’re using with it.
But, since it lacks the non-stick characteristic, you need to add a few drops of oil to its surface before using it.
Aluminum foil is easier to use as you don’t need to be cautious about the size and shape. You also don’t need to worry about your foil sticking out as they don’t burn.
Cooking Spray
To stop things from sticking, you can also use a cooking spray. This can help you avoid any food potentially sticking to the tray during the cooking process.
Silicon Pad/Mat
These are other great options that you can use instead of parchment paper. Silicon pads are made up of high-quality, food-grade silicone, and fiberglass. They have the same characteristics as parchment paper.
These mats come in various sizes and shapes and can be used for different pans and sheets. They are also washable and can be used multiple times, many more times than parchment paper can be used for.
If you decide to buy these silicon pads, make sure that you buy them from a trusted brand and a reputable company. Non-food grade silicon can give off toxins when heated or cooled.
Related Questions
Now that we’ve gone over why you shouldn’t use parchment paper in a toaster oven, let’s take a look at a few related questions on the subject!
Can you use aluminum foil in the toaster oven?
Yes, aluminum foils can be used in a toaster oven. You just need to make sure that you’re not coating the bottom of the oven itself and keep the temperature within acceptable limits to prevent the foil from interfering with the airflow.
Why should you avoid using parchment paper in a toaster oven?
Toaster ovens have two very hot bars above and below the rack where you place your tray or anything you’re cooking/baking on.
If the parchment paper, by chance, touches either of these two bars, you could have a fire on your hands.
What is the maximum oven temperature range for using parchment paper?
It is recommended that you do not use parchment paper above 425°F. Make sure that you preheat your oven first before placing the paper inside it.
Also, do not use parchment paper if the oven manufacturer prohibits it.
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