If you’re only using wax paper to wrap food items or for baking, you’re missing out on an amazingly functional kitchen tool. Wax paper can be much more multi-faceted than you think. Wax paper is paper that has been coated with food-grade paraffin wax on both sides to make it both nonstick, grease-proof and moisture-resistant. From rolling out dough or fondant and preventing sticking to countertops or rolling pins, to creating makeshift piping bags for decorating cakes, wax paper has several uses in the kitchen.
It also has some really creative uses. For instance, did you know that it can make cooking bacon easier and mess-free? Cook bacon in the microwave using wax paper to contain the mess. Place a sheet of wax paper on a microwave-safe plate, arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on top, and cover with another sheet of wax paper. Microwave on high for 4-6 minutes and you will see that the wax paper absorbs the excess grease, so there’s no splattering mess. Here are some other simple uses for wax paper which can help you out.
It’s A No-Mess Rolling Surface
Rolling out dough or fondant can sometimes get messy, with dough sticking to the countertop or rolling pin. The wax paper provides a smooth, non-stick surface for rolling out dough without the need for excessive flour. Place a sheet of wax paper on your countertop, sprinkle some flour on it, place the dough on top, and cover it with another sheet of wax paper. Roll out the dough between the sheets, and when you're done, peel off the top sheet for a mess-free rolling experience.
Can Be Used As Homemade Parchment Piping Bags
Need to pipe frosting, melted chocolate, or royal icing onto your baked goods but don't have piping bags on hand? Just use wax paper! Cut a square or rectangle of wax paper and roll it into a cone shape, so one corner forms a pointed tip. Secure the cone with tape or by folding the ends over each other. Fill the makeshift piping bag with your desired frosting or icing, twist the top to seal it, and snip off the tip. You will see it can be used as a disposable piping bag ready for decorating cakes, cookies, and pastries.
Greaseproof Dividers for Stacked Food
When storing stacked foods like pancakes, crepes, or homemade burgers, prevent them from sticking together by placing squares of wax paper between each layer. This prevents the food items from melding together and makes it easier to separate them when you're ready to serve.
Freshness Barrier for Cheese and Butter
Cheese and butter can easily pick up odours from other foods in the refrigerator, affecting their taste and freshness. Wrap blocks of cheese or sticks of butter in wax paper before storing them in the fridge to create a barrier against odours while allowing them to breathe. This helps maintain their freshness and flavour for longer periods compared to plastic wrap or foil.
Quick Grill Cleaner
Cleaning a grill can be a daunting task, especially when faced with stubborn, stuck-on food residue. To make the process easier, lay a sheet of wax paper on the grill grates while it's still warm after cooking. Close the lid and let the residual heat melt any grease or food particles stuck to the grates. The wax on the paper will help loosen the debris, making it easier to remove with a grill brush or damp cloth. This simple trick helps maintain your grill and prevents excessive buildup of grime.
DIY Food Wraps
You can reduce your plastic usage by making your own eco-friendly food wraps using wax paper. Combine equal parts grated beeswax and pine resin with a few tablespoons of jojoba or coconut oil in a double boiler until melted. Lay a sheet of wax paper on a baking tray, brush the melted mixture evenly over the paper using a pastry brush, and then place another sheet of wax paper on top.
Use a warm iron to press the sheets together and spread the mixture evenly. Once cooled, trim the edges and cut into desired sizes. These homemade food wraps are perfect for covering bowls, wrapping sandwiches, or storing snacks, and they can be washed and reused multiple times.