8 ways to use parchment paper beyond baking
What to use parchment for (photo: Flickr)
Parchment paper is one of the most essential kitchen materials, especially for baking. However, it's incredibly versatile and can be used for more than just cooking, according to Southern Living.
Create a piping bag
Don't have a piping bag? No problem. You can make a cone from parchment paper to pipe beautiful designs onto cookies or cakes.
As noted, it's actually easier with parchment than using any plastic bag you have on hand.
Organize your crafting space
Set up your crafting area on the table to prevent mess - though, of course, neatness is equally important.
Cut large sheets of parchment paper and place them on the table instead of using craft mats, so glitter and glue gun drips fall on them, eliminating the need to clean the table.
Make cupcake liners
Parchment paper can easily substitute for cupcake liners - though it might not be as colorful. Cut the parchment into 10 cm squares and lightly spray the bottoms of metal cupcake pans with cooking spray or oil.
Then, carefully fit the paper squares into the pans to conform to the shape of the metal. You can also dampen the paper with water, mold it to the pan, and let it dry.
Wrap gifts
A creative way to wrap gifts is with parchment paper. Wrap the gift in parchment, then seal the edges with clear tape and decorate the package with a ribbon.
Store foods separately
Whether you have burger patties meant for the freezer or freshly baked cookies that need airtight storage, placing a layer of parchment paper between individual items of the same type allows for easy portioning of food.
Make homemade sushi rolls
While bamboo sushi mats look stylish, they’re not necessary to make sushi.
Parchment paper is an effective wrapper for keeping all the ingredients together and reduces cleanup after cooking.
Use for patterns
Parchment paper is transparent, sturdy, and flexible, making it an excellent material for patterns. However, for larger clothing items, you’ll need to tape pieces together as parchment rolls are usually quite narrow.
Roll out dough for cookies and pies
Prevent a big mess on the countertop by rolling out cookie dough or pie crust on a sheet of parchment paper. It’s much easier to transfer the dough to a baking sheet from there than trying to peel it off the surface.
