Parchment paper, also known as baking paper, is a heat-resistant, non-stick paper. It's a popular choice for lining baking sheets and cake pans. The paper is coated with silicone, which gives it its non-stick properties. This makes it ideal for baking goods like cookies and pastries, as it ensures even heat distribution and prevents sticking. Wax paper, on the other hand, is coated with a thin layer of paraffin wax. This makes it water-resistant and non-stick. However, unlike parchment paper, wax paper is not heat-resistant. It should not be used in the oven, as the wax can melt and smoke. Instead, it's best used for cold food preparation tasks, such as wrapping sandwiches or shaping homemade candies. While both parchment and wax paper are kitchen essentials, they have key differences. The most significant difference lies in their reaction to heat. Parchment paper is heat-resistant and can withstand high oven temperatures. This makes it ideal for baking tasks. On the other hand, wax paper is not heat-resistant. When exposed to heat, the wax coating can melt, creating smoke and potentially catching fire.
