Healthy Eating Healthy Cooking How-Tos Can I Use Wax Paper Instead of Parchment Paper? By Stacy Fraser Stacy Fraser Stacy Fraser is an independent culinary professional based in Charlotte, Vermont. She was a kitchen manager at Burlington’s Penny Cluse Cafe for five years before joining the team at EatingWell, where she was test kitchen manager for 13 years. EatingWell's Editorial Guidelines Updated on March 30, 2020 Trending Videos Close this video player Q. Can I use wax paper instead of parchment paper? -D. Piazza, San Diego, CA Do I Need Both Liquid and Dry Measuring Cups? A. Wax paper and parchment paper can be used interchangeably in many applications, but not all. Wax paper melts when exposed to heat, while parchment can withstand temperatures up to 450°F, depending on the brand. Both types of paper are a great surface for rolling out pastry dough to prevent sticking and for layering cookies and candies when storing. But parchment paper is the one to choose when lining a baking sheet for a batch of cookies or a pan for roasting meat or vegetables. It's also the only paper to use when cooking en papillote (i.e., when you fold food in a packet and bake it). There's one exception to the rule of keeping wax paper away from heat: it can be used to line the bottom of cake pans because the cake batter absorbs much of the heat and prevents the wax from melting. How to Clean and Season a Cast Iron Skillet How Often Should You Wash Your Dish Towels How to Make Meringues Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit