Pastry mats are a great tool for all bakers. They make cooking, baking, and rolling simpler and save you time in the kitchen. With that said, it's also essential to realize that not all pastry mats are created equal. Some are designed to withstand the heavyweight of a doughy pie crust, while others are flimsy, causing their functionality to suffer. We have created this handy guide to help you pick the right pastry mat with ease.
Don't Confuse Baking Mats with Pastry Mats
The terms pastry mats and baking mats are often used interchangeably, but these mats differ from each other in three ways:
- Versatility
- Temperature tolerance
- Material
Pastry mats are made from 100% food-grade silicone, which is a very flexible material that withstands a wide range of temperatures, from -30°F to 480°F. They often have a non-stick layer that prevents sticking to the countertop when rolling out dough for pie crusts or biscuits. Plus, they are reusable and can be used more than 3,000 times! Highly versatile, they can also be used as placemats and placed under the countertop to catch spills and drips. Baking mats, on the other hand, are made from other materials such as parchment paper or aluminum foil. These papers eliminate the need to oil and grease the pan and are used as a liner to make baked salmon and chicken roast. They don't crack or break easily and often have a temperature tolerance of 500°F. But these mats are more porous and can trap odors from your last baking project. Also, they are disposable, so they are only able to be used once.
Features of an Ideal Pastry Mat
A pastry mat can be a wonderful addition to any baker's kitchen tool kit. However, it's important to consider the various features before purchasing one so you can enjoy an optimal performance in the kitchen. Some of these factors are explored below.
Temperature tolerance
When you are selecting any bakeware, make sure to check the temperature tolerance of the product. Although pastry mats won't easily melt or wrinkle in high heat, you should always opt for mats that have temperature resistance up to 480°F so you can make delicious recipes without worrying if your oven runs hot.
Measurements
If you don’t like uneven cookies and oddly shaped pizzas, it’s important to look for a mat that has measurement markings and circular guides. Some mats come with both imperial and metric systems that offer maximum accuracy and convenience while making pie crust, pizza dough, and salmon rolls.
Non-stick base
An ideal pastry mat has reinforced fiber mesh and a non-stick base, especially when baking with sticky or flaky dough. This will eliminate the need for oil, butter, and cooking spray and make the baking process easier and mess-free.
Ease of cleaning
We all procrastinate cleaning the utensils after a baking session, but it's an essential aspect of maintaining your tools. If you hate scrubbing off burnt-on sugar or crumbs, go for pastry mats that are dishwasher safe, making the cleaning experience easy and pain-free.
Size
When buying a pastry mat, it is important to pick the right size. Unlike parchment paper and aluminum foil, pastry mats have fixed size. The standard size is approximately 16"x20" and is perfect for those who regularly bake cookies and pastries. For those who bake less frequently, smaller mats are available and work equally well. Also, remember to consider the size of your baking equipment, such as your microwave oven, and choose the product that matches its dimension to save yourself from frustration later on.
Types of Pastry Mats
The most common material used to make pastry mats is silicone, which is exceptionally flexible and durable. Silicone is also non-stick making it great for tasks such as rolling out pastry dough or using it as a base for cutting out cookies or other baked goods. It is also dishwasher and oven safe. The other types of pastry mats are made from materials like:
Plastic
Plastic pastry mats are more rigid than silicone, but they're more affordable and easier to clean. However, they can bend or warp over time and may not always be dishwasher-safe.
Wood
Wooden pastry mats are another great option if you're just beginning to bake. These mats are made from beech wood and coated with food-safe finishes, such as vinyl or silicone. These finishes protect the wood from spills and stains while also providing some slip resistance. The coatings do wear over time, so they may not be ideal if you're frequently baking or if you tend to spill while cooking.
Marble
The most elegant and chic, marble pastry mats are made of natural stone and have a highly polished finish that gives them a non-slip grip on any surface. Their porous nature makes them prone to staining and discoloration over time, but they have a higher resistance to heat than plastic mats.
The Best Way to Clean a Pastry Mat
A pastry mat is an essential tool in any kitchen. They are used as a protective layer between baking ingredients and the countertop surface. The mats also offer an easy-to-clean surface where food preparation and kneading can be done without worrying about messy aftermaths. However, it is important to clean a pastry mat thoroughly after each use so it won't affect the taste of your baked goods or pose a health risk. The best way to clean a pastry mat is by using lukewarm water and soap. Scrub the mat with a stiff brush and rinse well. If you have particularly stubborn stains, you might want to apply a little baking soda or vinegar before scrubbing to soften them up. Be sure to test these solutions in a small area first before fully implementing them because some cleaners may stain or damage the material of the mats. After cleaning, allow the pastry mat to air dry completely before storing, which will prevent moisture buildup and mold growth. Allowing your mat to dry fully also increases its longevity.
