If you’re an avid baker, you may have come across the term “jelly roll pan” before. But what exactly is it? In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about jelly roll pans, including their size, uses, and materials.
What is a Jelly Roll Pan?
A jelly roll pan is a type of baking sheet with a shallow rim around the edge. This rim prevents liquids, such as batter or filling, from spilling over the edge and creating a mess in your oven. Jelly pans are typically rectangular in shape and are similar in size to a half-sheet pan.
What Size is a Jelly Roll Pan?
Jelly roll pans are typically 10 x 15 inches in size, which is the same size as a half-sheet pan. However, some manufacturers may produce jelly roll pans that are slightly larger or smaller than this standard size.
What is a Jelly Roll Pan Used For?
Jelly roll pans are commonly used for baking thin cakes, such as sponge cakes or jelly rolls, which are then rolled up with a filling inside. The shallow rim around the edge of the pan helps to contain the batter or filling, which prevents it from spilling over the edge. Jelly roll pans can also be used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods.
What Materials are Jelly Roll Pans Made From?
Jelly roll pans can be made from a variety of materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, and non-stick coatings. Aluminum pans are lightweight and conduct heat well, which makes them a popular choice among bakers. Stainless steel pans are durable and easy to clean, but they don’t conduct heat as well as aluminum pans. Non-stick coated pans are convenient for baking, but they may not be as durable as other materials and can be more expensive.
How to Clean a Jelly Roll Pan
To clean a jelly sheet pan, start by soaking it in warm soapy water to loosen any baked-on food. Then, scrub the pan with a non-abrasive scrubber or sponge to remove any remaining residue. If there are any stubborn stains or burnt-on food, you can try using a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub the pan. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or steel wool, as these can scratch the surface of the pan.
How to Store a Jelly Roll Pan
When not in use, jelly roll pans should be stored in a dry, cool place to prevent rust or corrosion. You can stack multiple pans together, but make sure to place a piece of parchment paper or a kitchen towel between each pan to prevent scratches.
Tips for Baking with a Jelly Roll Pan
Here are some tips to keep in mind when baking with a jelly sheet pan:
- Grease the pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Line the pan with parchment paper to make it easier to remove the baked goods.
- Don’t overfill the pan with batter or filling, as this can cause it to overflow and create a mess in your oven.
- Roll the cake or pastry while it’s still warm to prevent cracking.
Recipes for Jelly Roll Pans
Jelly roll pans are incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of baked goods. Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:
Pumpkin Roll
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a jelly roll pan.
- In a small bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the pumpkin puree and lemon juice to the egg mixture and beat until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared jelly sheet pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- While the cake is still warm, invert it onto a clean kitchen towel that has been dusted with powdered sugar.
- Carefully remove the parchment paper from the cake and roll it up with the towel inside.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before unrolling it and filling it with cream cheese frosting or whipped cream.
Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a jelly sheet pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Allow the cookies to cool slightly in the pan before cutting them into squares and serving.
Alternatives to Jelly Roll Pans
If you don’t have a jelly roll pan, there are a few alternatives you can use:
- Half-sheet pan: A half-sheet pan is the same size as a jelly roll pan and can be used interchangeably in most recipes.
- Rimmed baking sheet: A rimmed baking sheet has a slightly higher rim than a jelly pan, but it can still be used for most baked goods that call for a jelly sheet pan.
- Swiss roll tin: A Swiss roll tin is similar to a jelly roll pan but has higher sides to create a deeper cake.
Conclusion
A jelly roll pan is a versatile and essential tool for any baker. Whether you’re making a pumpkin roll or chocolate chip cookies, a jelly pan can help you create perfectly baked goods with minimal mess. By following our tips and recipes, you’ll be a jelly roll pro in no time!
FAQs
Can I use a silicone jelly roll pan instead of a metal one?
Yes, you can use a silicone jelly roll pan instead of a metal one. Just be sure to adjust your baking time and temperature accordingly, as silicone pans tend to conduct heat differently than metal pans.
How do I clean a jelly roll pan?
To clean a jelly pan, simply wash it with hot, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. If there are stubborn stains or burnt-on food, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to create a paste and scrub the pan with a soft-bristled brush.
Can I use a jelly roll pan for roasting vegetables?
Yes, you can use a jelly pan for roasting vegetables. Just be sure to spread the vegetables out in a single layer and toss them with oil and seasonings before roasting them in the oven.
Can I use a jelly roll pan for making pizza?
While a jelly pan can be used for making pizza, it may not be the best option. A pizza stone or cast iron skillet will provide better heat distribution and result in a crispier crust.
Can I use a jelly roll pan for making fudge?
Yes, a jelly pan can be used for making fudge. Just be sure to line the pan with parchment paper and allow the fudge to cool completely before cutting it into squares.
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