A jelly roll pan is a versatile baking tool that can be used for a variety of dishes. From baked goods to savory meals, this kitchen essential can help you create an array of delicious recipes. With its ridged edges and nonstick surface, the jelly roll pan is both easy to use and effective in cooking. Whether you need to prepare a traditional dessert or whip up something new, the jelly roll pan is sure to make your cooking experience a breeze.
What is Jelly Roll Pan?
A jelly roll pan is a type of baking dish or sheet pan that has an elevated edge on all four sides creating a shallow basin. This raised edge is typically 1 to 2 inches high and is designed to contain batter and other ingredients as they bake. The surface of the pan is usually made out of metal, coated with a non-stick layer. Jelly roll pans are primarily used for baking , but they can also be used to cook a variety of savory dishes.
History and origin of Jelly Roll Pans
The origin of the jelly roll pan is not definitively known, but it’s believed to have been developed in the late 19th century. Initially, these pans were made from tinplate and lacked a non-stick coating. However, by the 1960s, modern jelly roll pans had become available with a non-stick coating for easier release of baked goods. The name “jelly roll pan” likely originated from the traditional dessert of the same name, which is a thin sponge cake filled with jelly and then rolled up.
Types of Jelly Roll Pans
Material
Jelly roll pans are typically made of metal, usually aluminum or steel. Aluminum is the most common material used for jelly roll pans as it is lightweight, durable, and an excellent heat conductor. Steel pans are also popular because of their durability and ability to retain heat evenly. Non-stick coatings can be added to either type of pan for easy release of baked goods . Some manufacturers may also offer silicone jelly roll pans which are known for being flexible and resistant to warping.
Size and Shape
Jelly roll pans come in a variety of sizes, with the most common being 10×15 inches. Some pans are also available in larger sizes such as 12×18 or 13×19 inches. The standard depth of a jelly roll pan is usually around 1 to 2 inches. These shallow-sided pans are designed to allow heat to circulate evenly throughout the pan and create a crisp, golden crust on baked goods. The shape of the pan is usually rectangular or square, although some specialty pans may be round or oval.
Coating
Jelly roll pans are usually coated with a non-stick material to make it easier to remove baked goods from the pan. Non-stick coatings can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but most commonly they are made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or silicone. These coatings help prevent sticking, which can make the cleaning process much easier.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Jelly Roll Pans
Advantages
Jelly roll pans are versatile and can be used for a variety of recipes from baked goods to savory dishes. The ridged edges and non-stick surface make it easy to use and effective in cooking, while the shallow depth allows heat to circulate evenly throughout the pan, creating a crisp, golden crust on your baked goods. These pans also come in a variety of sizes and shapes to suit your needs.
Disadvantages
Although jelly roll pans are a convenient baking tool, they may not be suitable for all recipes. Due to their shallow depth, some recipes may require a deeper pan with higher sides that can hold more batter or ingredients.
Uses of Jelly Roll Pans
Baking Cakes
Jelly roll pans are perfect for baking cakes due to their shallow depth and ridged edges. The raised edges help contain the cake batter and keep it from spreading too far while in the oven, which helps create a perfectly even shape. The non-stick coating also makes it easy to remove cakes from the pan without any sticking or mess. These pans can be used to bake sheet cakes, sponge cakes, and even some angel food cakes.
Making Bars and Brownies
Jelly roll pans are also great for making bars and brownies. The shallow sides of the pan create a thinner, crispier crust on the edges, while the non-stick coating helps to ensure easy release. To make bars or brownies in a jelly roll pan, simply spread your batter evenly into the pan and bake as directed. The shallow depth of the pan also makes it easy to cut into uniform sized bars or squares.
Preparing Rolled Desserts
Making rolled desserts such as jelly rolls or Swiss rolls is easy when using a jelly roll pan. To begin, lightly grease the pan with butter or oil and line it with parchment paper or wax paper. Then spread your cake batter evenly into the pan and bake as directed. Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool before rolling it up with your desired filling. The non-stick coating of the pan makes it easy to remove the cake without breaking or tearing.
Roasting Vegetables and Meats
Jelly roll pans are ideal for roasting vegetables and meats due to their shallow depth and non-stick coating. Preheat the oven to the desired temperature and lightly grease the pan with oil or butter. Place your vegetables or meat in the pan in a single layer, season as desired, and cover with foil. Roast in the oven until the desired doneness is achieved. The shallow depth of the pan helps to circulate heat evenly, while the non-stick coating makes it easy to remove cooked foods without sticking or mess.
Tips for Proper Maintenance of Jelly Roll Pans
Prepping the Pan
Before using a jelly roll pan, you should always prepare it properly. To begin, wash the pan in warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly. If your pan is non-stick coated, avoid harsh scouring pads or abrasive cleaners which could damage the coating. Once clean, lightly grease the pan with butter or oil to prevent sticking and ensure easy release. Then line the pan with parchment paper or wax paper before adding your ingredients.
Cleaning the Pan
After use, jelly roll pans should be cleaned promptly to prevent food from hardening and sticking to the surface. To begin, scrape off any excess food with a spatula or spoon and rinse the pan with warm water. Use a soft dishcloth and non-abrasive cleaner to remove any remaining food particles, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. If your pan is non-stick coated, avoid using harsh scouring pads or abrasive cleaners which could damage the coating. Allow the pan to air dry before storing.
Drying the Pan
Once your jelly roll pan is clean, it is important to dry it completely before storing. To do so, thoroughly wipe down the pan with a soft dishcloth and allow it to air dry. Avoid using a paper towel or other abrasive material which could scratch or damage the non-stick coating. Once dry, store your jelly roll pan in a cool, dry place until ready for use.
Conclusion
Jelly roll pans are incredibly versatile and can be used to make a variety of dishes. They are perfect for baking cakes due to their shallow depth and ridged edges which help create an even shape. The non-stick coating makes it easy to remove cakes without any sticking or mess. These pans are also great for making bars, brownies, rolled desserts, and roasting vegetables and meats.
When using a jelly roll pan, it is important to follow instructions carefully in order to ensure the best results. Always preheat your oven before baking or roasting, and be sure to lightly grease the pan with butter or oil before adding your ingredients. It is also important to clean the pan promptly after each use, using a soft dishcloth and non-abrasive cleaner. When purchasing a jelly roll pan, look for one that is made of high quality materials such as stainless steel or aluminum. A non-stick coating is also recommended to ensure easy removal of cakes and other baked goods.
