Tips for Choosing Cookie Baking Sheets

One of the questions people frequently ask Chef Allyson is, "What type of cookie baking sheets should I be using for the best homemade cookies?" Good question! As you may have already guessed, not all cookie sheets are created equal. When you walk the aisles of the store, it can seem like a daunting task to determine which ones will help you bake the perfect chocolate chip cookies or soft sugar cookies, and which ones might make you wish you never baked at all. Having the right cookie baking sheets can make a significant difference in how your cookies turn out, whether you’re baking classic chewy chocolate chip cookies or crispy oatmeal raisin cookies.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when shopping for the best cookie baking sheets for your kitchen:

• Choose Heavy-Duty Baking Sheets for Even Heat Distribution: For more even heat distribution, bypass the common cheap cookie sheets. These inexpensive options tend to warp and may not produce the best results. Instead, look for heavy-duty cookie sheets with an aluminum core. These are often regarded as the best cookie sheets for baking cookies evenly and consistently, especially if you’re aiming to make bakery-style cookies at home.
• Consider Rimless Cookie Sheets for Easy Cookie Removal: Most cookie sheets come with edges all the way around, but if you find rimless cookie sheets, choose those. They make it easier to slide a spatula under the cookies, reducing the chance of breaking your perfectly baked cookies, whether you’re making homemade chocolate chip cookies or sugar cookies for special occasions.
• Light vs. Dark Cookie Sheets - What’s Best for Baking Cookies?: The finish of your baking sheet can affect your cookies. If you prefer to keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake, a lighter sheet might be the way to go, especially when baking delicate cookies like shortbread. However, if you want a faster browning process, a darker cookie sheet can help achieve that golden-brown perfection, which is ideal for recipes like gingerbread cookies.
• Nonstick Cookie Sheets vs. Traditional Sheets: If you plan to use parchment paper for your cookie baking, there's no need to splurge on nonstick cookie sheets. However, having a good nonstick baking sheet on hand is a nice option, especially when you’re baking without parchment paper and want to avoid cookies sticking to the pan. Nonstick sheets are also great for baking large batches of cookies quickly and efficiently.
• Look for Baking Sheets with Handles for Easy Oven Access: While not a necessity, baking sheets with handles can make it easier to maneuver in and out of the oven, ensuring you don’t accidentally stick your finger into your freshly baked cookies. This feature is particularly useful when baking holiday cookies in large quantities.
• Pan Prep Tips for the Best Cookie Baking Results: Pay attention to the pan preparation required for your cookie recipe. Whether it’s greasing the pan, lining it with foil, or using parchment paper, proper pan prep will make a difference in how your cookies bake, helping you avoid common mistakes like overbaking or sticking. These tips are especially helpful when you’re baking cookies for a crowd or trying out new cookie recipes.

While there are no hard and fast rules for choosing the best cookie baking sheets, it's wise to avoid the cheapest options available. These are abundant in stores but often leave much to be desired. Investing in high-quality baking sheets can enhance your baking experience and lead to better, more consistent results every time you bake cookies at home.