Wax paper vs Parchment Paper

[Terri-Lynn2]

Can anyone tell me whether these two things are the same, or whether or not they are interchangable?

Thanks

Terri

[Julie O]

No, they're not interchangeable. Wax paper has, as the name implies, a wax coating on it, so it's not suitable for oven use. Parchment paper is an uncoated paper which is suitable for use in the oven.

[sneezles]

They are not the same. Parchment paper has been treated to withstand high heat so it can be used in baking and baked items do not stick to it. Was paper is tissue thin and although moisture resistant grease and moisture will eventually seep through. While ti can be used to line a cake pan, it cannot be exposed to direct heat. But it's great for using in the microwave when thawing meat.

[bossy]

Although parchment paper is "nonstick" and I use it all the time - every once in awhile a particularly gooey cookie will stick. So if the recipe calls for a sprayed cookie sheet - make your first lot on parchment if that is your choice and wait to see how they come off before you line up all the parchment pieces and start "production" http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif. Sometimes you may have to spray the parchment paper with cooking spray in order to have them release well. Now why go to the bother then I hear you ask - because I for one would rather not wash a cookie sheet unless necessary http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/smile.gif Plain laziness!

[sneezles]

bossy,
My kind of cook! http://www.cookinglight.com/bbs/wink.gif

[This message has been edited by sneezles (edited 02-15-2001).]