An independent editorial selection, based on published specifications—not hands-on testing. Retailer links are ordinary, non-affiliate links; we currently earn no commission from them. Read our disclosure.
| Our selection | Best suited to | Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| King Arthur Half-Sheet Parchment | For flexible, easy cleanup | 16 1/2 × 12 1/4 inches · rated to 450°F |
King Arthur Half-Sheet Parchment
16 1/2 × 12 1/4 inches · rated to 450°F
Why consider it: Precut flat sheets avoid curling and can be trimmed to line smaller pans.
Keep in mind: Creates waste and must stay away from direct heating elements. Check your pan fit.
| Consideration | Parchment | Silicone mat |
|---|---|---|
| Fit | Can be trimmed and folded | Buy the correct size; do not cut reinforced mats |
| Cleanup | Discard when soiled or damaged | Wash and dry between uses |
| Heat limits | Check package; selected paper is rated to 450°F | Check the specific manufacturer rating |
| Best use | Flexible pan lining and lifting bars | Repeated flat-sheet baking |
There is no universal winner
Both liners can reduce sticking and simplify cleanup, but they do not behave identically. A thicker silicone mat changes heat transfer at the base of a cookie, while thin parchment provides a lighter barrier. Results depend on the recipe; keep your liner consistent if you want repeatable results.
Choose parchment for flexibility
Parchment can be cut to fit pans, folded into corners, and used to lift bar cookies out of a tin. King Arthur’s precut half sheets measure 16 1/2 by 12 1/4 inches and are rated by the retailer to 450°F. Trim as needed and keep paper away from heating elements. Never substitute wax paper in the oven.
Choose a mat when repeat use suits you
A reusable silicone baking mat can be helpful for frequent baking if you are willing to wash and dry it thoroughly. Check its dimensions and the specific manufacturer’s temperature limit. Do not cut a fiberglass-reinforced mat, and replace it if damaged. We have not selected a particular mat model for this initial guide.
Consider cleanup and storage
Parchment avoids washing a liner but creates waste. A mat requires water, storage, and repeated use to justify its purchase. Avoid blanket environmental claims: how often you use it, how you wash it, and local waste rules all matter. Do not assume silicone-coated paper is recyclable or compostable in your area.
Our selection criteria
Our recommendation centers on clearly disclosed dimensions, heat limits, and practical uses. The paper selection below is based on retailer specifications checked October 4, 2026, not hands-on testing. For a new recipe, begin with the liner the author specifies; compare alternatives only after you know the baseline.
A few good questions
Can parchment be reused?
The selected retailer describes its paper as reusable. Reuse only if it remains clean enough, intact, and not brittle or scorched; discard damaged sheets and follow the package instructions.
Can a silicone mat go under a broiler?
Do not assume so. Direct radiant heat can exceed an oven-temperature rating. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions; parchment should also be kept away from direct heating elements.
Why did my cookies spread differently?
The liner changes contact with the hot pan. Dough temperature and the baking sheet can also matter. Repeat the recipe with only one change so you can identify the cause.
